Three MPI Volunteers of the Month from 2025 discuss their MPI experiences and the value they’ve realized through dedicating their time and energy to the association.
Nicole Coon, CMP
MPI Minnesota Chapter
Experience Designer, The Collective by BCD M&E
How did you get started in the meeting and event industry?
I actually fell into the meeting and event industry by circumstance. After being laid off, I accepted a receptionist position at an association—a role I almost didn’t take, knowing it might not challenge me. But I worked hard, was promoted within the first year and earned several promotions in just 18 months. While managing awards, I realized it was the meeting and event that truly excited me.
The executive director knew of my interest, and when the opportunity arose for some reorganization, we created one dedicated role rather than having each staff member manage their own department events. That’s how the meeting and event role was created for me—and I haven’t looked back since.
Can you share a standout experience you’ve had as an MPI member and/or specific to volunteering with the association?
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had as an MPI member was attending my first WEC. The driving factor for attending was that my organization had been selected as a recipient of a RISE Award for Organizational Achievement.
I flew to San Francisco to receive the award, even though I couldn’t attend the entire event because of a work commitment just two days later. I flew in, participated in the rehearsal for the general session where the awards would be presented the next day and then had to fly back out immediately after. The standout moment came as I joined the crowd walking into that session—I was unexpectedly overcome with emotion. Seeing the chapter signs, the energy in the room and the camaraderie among professionals from across the globe was truly breathtaking.
It was the first time I felt that deep sense of belonging—being surrounded by “my people” who truly understood the industry and the work we do. It was inspiring, moving and one of those moments that reminded me why I wanted to be part of this community. I still get verklempt thinking about it.
A standout experience for me as a volunteer was the first time I co-chaired the Minnesota Chapter’s education conference. At the time, I didn’t have the opportunity to plan an education conference in my professional role, so I leveraged volunteering as a way to grow my skills and experience.
What stands out just as much as the professional growth is the personal side. My co-chair, Meghan, and I worked late into the night before the event, watching the room come together, laughing on the thrust stage (sleep deprivation will do that!) and feeling so proud of what we had created. The energy of the volunteers, the creativity in the setup and even the small details (like the unforgettable French fries!) made it an incredibly memorable experience.
We also built a strong planning structure that would be carried forward, which was deeply rewarding. That volunteer role not only helped me round out my skill set but also gave me lasting friendships and a true sense of community.
What’s one of your favorite aspects of the MPI community?
Absolutely the people. The peers I’ve volunteered alongside are so thoughtful, intentional and genuinely enthusiastic about our industry and our chapters. Whether it’s serving on a board, planning an event or simply connecting at a reception, there’s such authenticity in the way people show up.
The energy at MPI events is like nothing else—the room is abuzz with laughter, connection and genuine excitement. Nothing compares to the authenticity and passion I’ve found within MPI. It really is about the people—and that’s what makes it so special.
What, if anything, would you like to see (or see more of) when it comes to the MPI community?
When I think about what I’d like to see more of in the MPI community, it really comes down to knowledge sharing and collaboration. I’ve always valued opportunities for peer-to-peer learning—roundtable events where planners and suppliers can exchange ideas are some of my favorites. Every time I attend, I leave with fresh perspectives and practical takeaways I can apply right away.
I’d also love to see more mentorship opportunities at the volunteer level. Volunteering has been such an important part of my own growth and creating spaces where emerging leaders can learn from seasoned members—and from each other—would be incredibly impactful. Along those same lines, cross-chapter sharing of best practices between board roles is a great way to strengthen chapters across the globe.
I really appreciate that MPI has introduced Communities based on specific interests—there’s something for everyone. Having access to those kinds of networks during my first board experience would have been invaluable, and I think continuing to build on that kind of targeted connection will make the MPI experience even stronger.
What is one thing the meeting and event industry needs right now?
What our industry really needs right now is a better way to measure true business impact. Too often we rely on surface metrics like attendance or satisfaction scores, when what matters most is showing how events drive outcomes—whether that’s building stronger customer relationships, generating new opportunities or deepening employee engagement. If we can make that connection clearer, events stop being seen as a cost and start being recognized as the strategic drivers they are.
Hand in hand with that is activating the data we already have. We capture so much information before, during and after our events, but it doesn’t always get translated into action. Imagine the power of using that data to personalize experiences, guide smarter decisions and prove ROI in ways that resonate with leadership.
At the end of the day, our work is about creating connection and impact. Connection is our craft. Proving impact is our power.
Carolyn Browning, CMM, CMP, HMCC
MPI Connecticut River Valley Chapter
Owner and Chief Solutions Strategist, MEETing Needs
How did you get started in the meeting and event industry?
Like many others, I “fell” into it. In college, I managed the student dining service, planning dinners, events and staffing, but didn’t realize it could be a career. My first post-college role was in pricing, marketing and sales training. I enjoyed the work, but watching colleagues plan customer events and trade shows sparked something in me. My next two positions gave me the chance to step into that world, and I knew I had found my calling.
What’s one of your favorite aspects of the MPI community?
I love that MPI offers so many ways to get involved, learn and grow through volunteering. The chapters are truly the heart of the association—their energy, collaboration and enthusiasm for the industry are contagious and continually remind me why I’m proud to be part of this community.
What is one thing the meeting and event industry needs right now?
Patience, adaptability and openness to new ideas. As our industry evolves, we’re often asked to do more with less while meeting rising attendee expectations. Technology can be a tremendous asset, but success still depends on creativity and the human connections that make events meaningful.
Elizabeth McKenna, CMP, CED
MPI Chapter and Membership Advisory Council (CMAC) and Director of Leadership Development, MPI North Florida Chapter
How did you get started in the meeting and event industry?
I went to college for business and earned a degree in marketing. My first job was as a marketing manager for a resort in World Golf Village, where part of my role included planning weekly onsite events. I later developed a roadshow program that became the model for other properties and led my department to become the top revenue producer for a Fortune 500 company, driven by events. That experience made me realize how much I enjoyed the work and how naturally it fit my skills.
Can you share a standout experience you’ve had as an MPI member and/or specific to volunteering with the association?
Serving as president of our chapter and on the board has been truly career changing. The leadership opportunities MPI provides are invaluable. More recently, my time as vice chair on CMAC has allowed me to expand my community beyond my local chapter and gain a deeper understanding of MPI and the industry as a whole. I encourage everyone to volunteer at the global level, it’s an incredible way to stay involved, continue learning and grow your professional network.
What’s one of your favorite aspects of the MPI community?
The people are the heartbeat of MPI. I originally joined for networking and education, but I’ve stayed because of the leadership opportunities and the amazing people I’ve met. MPI holds a special place in my heart because of this community, it’s a group that rallies behind one another, supports the organization and shows up when needed. Knowing that I have a network of champions and peers who truly care has been instrumental to my personal and professional growth.
What, if anything, would you like to see (or see more of) when it comes to the MPI community?
I’d love to see more connections within the community, more opportunities to meet throughout the year, share best practices and learn together. Fellowship and collaboration strengthen our industry. Coming together more often to exchange ideas and support one another would help us continue improving and uplifting those around us.
What is one thing the meeting and event industry needs right now?
A stronger, unified voice leading the way. Our industry has evolved, but in some areas, it still operates under outdated practices. We need leadership that challenges the status quo, encourages innovation and helps both planners and suppliers improve the way we work every day. Progress begins when someone is willing to speak up and drive meaningful change for the good of the industry.
