VIRGINIA VIEW THE MPI
NEWSLETTER
SECOND QUARTER, 2025
Thankyouforthewarmresponsetoourinauguralissue we’rethrilledtokeepthemomentumgoing!Inthisedition, you’llfindfreshinsights,upcomingopportunitiestoconnect, andspotlightsonmemberswhoaremakinganimpact acrossourcommunity.
We’recommittedtomakingTheVirginiaViewvaluablefor you,sokeepsharingyourideasandfeedback—yourvoice helpsshapewhat’snext!
President’s Letter
DWIGHT DRISKILL
Dear MPI Virginia Chapter Members,
As we reach the midpoint of 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the current state of our industry and share what we’re seeing across the dynamic and ever-evolving world of meeting and event planning.
Despite economic shifts and continued conversations around hybrid work, the meetings and events industry is proving to be more resilient and innovative than ever. In-person gatherings are not only rebounding they’re evolving in creative, meaningful ways that prioritize attendee experience, mental well-being, and sustainability.
Trends Shaping Our Industry
One of the most exciting developments is the renewed emphasis on experiential design. On platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram, planners are showcasing events that go beyond the traditional ballroom setup — incorporating immersive installations, wellness lounges, local food and culture, and even outdoor “unconferences.” These experiences are designed to engage attendees not just intellectually, but emotionally and physically.
Another visible trend is the rise of AI and automation tools to streamline planning processes. From chatbots for registration support to AI-curated agendas, planners are openly sharing their wins and lessons learned in real time. If you’re on LinkedIn, you’ve probably seen posts about tools like Cvent’s AI Matchmaking or AI-powered event marketing copywriters making waves. Embracing these technologies is becoming less of a choice and more of a necessity.
Equally important is the growing commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Social conversations on Twitter/X and Threads often highlight how event planners are rethinking venue selection, signage, dietary options, and programming to ensure every attendee feels welcome and included. This is more than a trend — it’s a movement that reflects the heart of what MPI stands for.
Local Strength, Global Vision
Here in Virginia, we’re seeing our members lead with creativity and purpose. From Richmond to Virginia Beach, local planners are executing events that serve as models for national audiences. Whether you’re organizing corporate retreats, association conferences, or social events, your adaptability, grit, and innovation are turning challenges into new standards of excellence.
I encourage all of you to continue sharing your stories online using your posts not only to inspire, but they also contribute to our industry’s collective growth.
Looking Ahead
As your chapter president, I remain committed to helping you connect, learn, and lead. Through upcoming chapter events, including our Annual Conference August 6-8 in Norfolk, education sessions, and peer mentorship, MPI Virginia will continue to be your trusted source for community and career development.
Thank you for being part of this incredible chapter. Your leadership, creativity, and heart are shaping the future of our industry — and it’s a future full of promise.
See you at the Annual Conference!
Dwight Driskill President MPI-VA Chapter
Welcome Newest Members
Allison Dunn Cvent, Inc
Tiffany Gist
Andrea Harris
Erica McGrory
Valencia Moore
National Defense Industrial Association
The College of William & Mary
Chesapeake Convention & Visitors Bureau
Maria Nehring Fluidity Performance Troupe Entertain
Kimberly Oleson
American Association of Tissue Banks
Darla Owens Future Business Leaders of America
Nancy Rosen
Caleb Shifflett
Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center
Sydney Way Town Point Club
We are pleased to offer you an opportunity to help a colleague, friend, or young professional experience the benefits of MPI membership.
MembershipMilestones
Join us in celebrating these amazing members and their commitment to MPI Virginia
MEMBERSHIP MILESTONES
Member Spotlight
Cole, CMP
Director of Events, Reynolds Community College Ariel
Member Since: June 2009
Can’t Live Without: My outlook calendarif it is not on the calendar it does not exist!
Go-to Meal: Tacos
Why She Joined MPI VA
“I initially joined MPI-VA for the education and support to earn my CMP certification, but I gained so much more career growth, professional development, meaningful connections, and lifelong friends ”
What She Loves Most About the Industry
“I love bringing an idea to life from concept to execution, and the variety of events keeps things exciting with new challenges and opportunities plus, the good food never hurts!”
Her Advice to Newcomers
“Get involved and say yes whether it’s joining a committee, attending events, or writing an article, MPI offers countless ways to grow, connect, and make the most of your membership. Some of my greatest skills and relationships started simply by raising my hand.”
Know someone we should spotlight next? Or want to be featured yourself? Let us know now!
Nominate
VOLUNTEER Opportunities
LOOKING TO GET INVOLVED WITH MPI VA?
We’re currently welcoming volunteers across a variety of areas—whether you’re passionate about planning events, creating content, connecting with members, or supporting behind the scenes, there’s a place for you! Bring your creativity, leadership, and enthusiasm to help us grow and serve our community. Complete the Volunteer Interest Form below to let us know how you’d like to get involved with MPI VA! We’d love to have you on board.
Volunteer Today
Education Committee
Passionate about learning and professional development? Join the Education Committee and help shape the programming that brings valuable insights and meaningful experiences to our members throughout the year.
Interested? Contact Rachael Holt
Marketing and Communications Committee
Are you creative, social-savvy, or love writing? Help us tell our chapter’s story! We’re looking for volunteers to support social media, email marketing, and content creation for The MPI Virginia View.
Interested? Contact Shamera Stewart or Lauren Keys
BENEFITS OF GETTTING INVOLVED
Expand your network of event and hospitality professionals
Build your leadership and communication skills
Get early access to chapter events and planning
Boost your resume while having fun with a collaborative team
Upcoming Events
MEMBERORIENTATIONS
SAVE THE DATES: Join us to meet fellow members of the MPI Virginia Chapter, and learn more about how to get the most out of your membership.
Upcoming Orientations:
1.July 16, 2025: 11 am - 11:30 am EST Register Here 2.August 15, 2025: 11 am - 11:30 am EST Register Here
Learn more about ... Networking Opportunities CMP Information
Virtual & Live Educational Sessions Member Engagement & Getting Involved And Much More!
After registering, you will receive a Zoom link to attend the event virtually the day before the event.
Please contact Kathleen Hinger, Director of Sponsorships, for more details at khinger@cwf.org.
2025 Annual Conference
Where Events Evolve — And So Will You
MPI Virginia's 2025 Annual Education Conference will take place August 6-8, 2025 at the Renaissance Portsmouth Norfolk Waterfront Hotel.
This year’s agenda is packed with content that’s as timely as it is practical. Learn how to integrate AI into your workflow without overwhelm, build stronger self-leadership habits, approach job transitions with confidence, make your events more accessible and inclusive, and much more. Each session is designed to deliver tools, insights, and real-world strategies you can put into action right away all led by professionals who understand the challenges and opportunities in today’s events industry.
Register Today
Early Bird ends July 9
Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel is located in the arts and culture district of Portsmouth, VA which features a scenic working harbor waterfront, upscale dining, a plethora of antique and boutique shops, and the largest collection of historic homes.
Book your room here by July 7th!
Support Today: MPI Virginia relies on generous sponsors and auction donors to help us deliver valuable programming, networking, and scholarships for our members.
Silent Auction Donations:
Contribute an item or experience to help fund chapter initiatives. Sponsorship Opportunities: Explore ways to showcase your brand in our 2025 Sponsorship Packet.
Introducing our 2025 Annual Conference Speakers!
SamanthaBean, GTP®,GLP® VicePresidentof Sales<DCulture Champion LTDHospitalityGroup
JoeJamison,CPACC CEO&Founder VisitAble
KapilPatel Founder,Chief HappinessOfficer InspiringHappiness atWork
DwightDriskill,CTA MPIVirginiaChapter President|SrAccount Executive KingsDominion/Six FlagsAmerica
MarianneJohnson Manager,Events& Fundraising MedRVAFoundation
RobHaislip VicePresidentof Business Development CovingtonTravel
Ling(Ally)Ling,Ph.D. Lecturer|Undergraduate ProgramDirectorofPark, RecreationandTourism Studies OldDominionUniversity
AnnHayes DirectorofSales, Groups&Meetings VisitLoudoun/ LoudounConvention& VisitorsAssociation
LisaMeriwether TourismManager CityofDanville,VA
MelissaVine EventPlanner&Designer TheHiveWedding Collective
Past Events
MPI Virginia brought together meeting and event professionals in Harrisonburg for two impactful days of learning and connection at Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center, April 16–17, 2025. The program featured engaging sessions on AI and cybersecurity, leadership in the digital age, and emotional intelligence, along with interactive discussions and valuable networking opportunities. Attendees left with fresh insights, practical takeaways, and new connections to help shape the future of our industry.
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Industry Insights
MPI WEC 2025 WRAPS ITS ST. LOUIS RALLY
By Taylor Smith | Meetings Today
St. Louis knows how to rally.
The Gateway to the West played host to MPI’s World Education Congress (WEC) June 18-20, which welcomed approximately 1,900 in-person attendees to the newly expanded America’s Center Convention Complex in the heart of downtown St. Louis.
By Lisa Plummer Savas | Corporate Event News
A new AI company claims its platform empowers business event organizers to boost lead conversion rates while cutting workload in half through AI agents that automatically prioritize leads, personalize follow-ups, and measure campaign performance across their existing tech stack.
By Joshua Grimes | Meetings Today
By It’s truly an interesting time to be a meeting professional. Attendance is down and prices are up due to tariffs, government funding cuts, uncertainty at the borders and spending restrictions.
...Here are eight critical points you should consider for your meeting and event contracts in these turbulent times. 8 MEETINGS AND EVENTS CONTRACT POINTS FOR TURBULENT TIMES
By Adam Parry| Event Industry News
Professionals from across the business meetings and events sector have reported work-life balance expectations are the leading factor impacting staff retention, according to the latest survey by the Meetings Industry Association (MIA)
CALLING ALL INDUSTRY EXPERTS:
SHARE YOUR VOICE IN THE VIRGINIA VIEW!
MPI Virginia is now accepting original article submissions for our quarterly newsletter and wewantyoutocontribute!
We know our members are some of the most talented and insightful professionals in the meetingsandeventsindustry,andwewanttoshowcaseyourexpertise!Whetherit'saunique perspective,lessonslearned,emergingtrends,bestpractices,orcreativesolutions,yourvoice deservestobeheard.
WhySubmit?
Engagewiththechapterinameaningful,visibleway
Elevateyourprofessionalprofile publishedarticlesareperfectforsharingonLinkedInor addingtoyourrésumé
Earnrecognitionamongyourpeersasathoughtleader
Contributetotheindustry’sgrowthbysharingyourknowledge
In some cases, published work may qualify for continuing education (CE) credits toward professionalcertifications
Guidelines:
Articlesshouldbeoriginalcontentandrelevanttothemeetingsandeventsindustry
Submissions may include personal insights, case studies, how-to guides, or commentary onindustrytrends
Wordcount:400–800words(flexible)
Allsubmissionsaresubjecttoeditorialreview
Whether you’re a seasoned planner or an emerging leader with fresh ideas, we encourage youtosubmit!
Thank you for reading this issue of The MPI Virginia View and being part of our community. Your involvement is what keeps us growing and thriving.
We hope you’ll join us at our upcoming events, stay connected with fellow members, and keep finding new ways to engage. Together, we ’ re shaping a stronger future for our industry — and we can’t wait to see you at the next gathering!
LET’S CONNECT!
Stay in the know with event updates, industry trends, and networking opportunities. Follow us on social media to stay connected with the MPI Virginia community!
We’d love to feature your success, insights, or industry expertise in the next edition of The MPI Virginia View! Submit your ideas here: HAVE A STORY