MPI Pittsburgh Chapter September 2025 Newsletter

Turning the Page 🍂

As summer winds down and the first hints of autumn appear, September invites us to enjoy the best of both seasons. It’s a time of golden afternoons, cooler evenings, and a fresh sense of energy as we step into fall.

Upcoming Events 🥂

Connecting The Dots: Making Sense of Conflicting Data

Thursday, September 11th, 2025 9:00 AM -11:00 AM

Courtyard Pittsburgh University Center 100 Lytton Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15213

Join MPI Pittsburgh on September 11, 2025 at the Courtyard by Marriott University Center for an engaging and insightful education session led by industry veteran Michael Dominguez, President & CEO of ALHI Hotels.

In today’s rapidly changing world, navigating conflicting data and economic uncertainty has become more challenging than ever. From disruptive technologies and shifting global relations to evolving hotel structures and consumer behavior, the ability to interpret trends and adapt quickly is critical for success in the meetings and hospitality industry.

Michael will share his expertise and perspective on the latest industry forecasts, economic shifts, and structural changes shaping the business events landscape in 2025 and beyond. You’ll leave with actionable insights to better understand today’s business climate, optimize decision-making, and prepare for the future.

Following the main session, join Michael for an exclusive Planner Coffee Chat from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM. This casual, planners-only experience will offer deeper conversation, tailored insights, and open Q&A in a relaxed setting. Coffee and pastries will be provided by the Courtyard by Marriott University Center.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow MPI Pittsburgh Chapter members and elevate your perspective with one of the industry’s most respected thought leaders.

Save the Date: November Education

Tuesday, November 18th, 2025 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh/Southpointe 1000 Corporate Drive, Canonsburg, PA 15317

This exciting education event will bring together planner and supplier professionals to discuss all aspects of what it takes to be in the industry. The round table format will allow for open collaboration, idea sharing, and decision making around all aspects of event planning. Moderated by Jaime Andrade-Budesa Owner, Rezilyent Destination & Events/Member Engagement Specialist at the Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce, this session will promote dynamic conversations and enlightening discussions from curated questions and examples.

Save the Date: Holiday Gala and MPI Pittsburgh Chapter Membership Awards

Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Greer Cabaret Theater

Ring in the season with delicious bites, festive beverages, and plenty of holiday spirit as we honor our outstanding members with the 2025 MPI Pittsburgh Chapter Member Awards. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season, connect with colleagues, and toast to another incredible year together.

Professional Development

✨theEvent✨

Explore your nature in Fredericton, Sept. 7–9! theEVENT is where the industry pros gather to collaborate, create, and challenge the status quo. You’ll leave with the skills needed to lead what’s next in events.

Are you ready to explore what’s possible?

IMEX America & IBTM World — Hosted Buyer Application

The MPI Exchange is offering exclusive Hosted Buyer opportunities at two of the industry's most powerful events—IMEX America and IBTM World in Barcelona

If you plan international meetings, conferences, or incentives, this is your chance to:

• 💼 Connect with top suppliers from around the world
• 🌐 Discover cutting-edge trends and destinations
• 🧠 Gain insights from industry leaders
• ✈️ Enjoy travel perks and curated networking experiences

IMEX America – Las Vegas, NV – October 7-9, 2025

To Apply: Sign into your IMEX account or create a new one through the IMEX website below.

MPI Codes (use one of the following):

USA / Canada planners (Sunday – Wednesday): 09vnhr

USA / Canada planners (Sunday – Thursday): q61ia0

For more information about IMEX America visit their website here: https://imexamerica.com

IBTM World – Barcelona, Spain – November 18-20, 2025

To Apply: https://rx.eventsair.com/ibtmworld/buyer-contact

MPI Group Code: MPIXX_GLB_25

For more information about IBTM World visit their website here: https://www.ibtmworld.com/

Spots are limited—apply now to secure your place! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expand your global network.

MPI Global 🌎

MPI Global New Member Orientation

New members, register for the MPI New Member Orientation (a 45-minute webinar). You’ll learn all about the benefits available to you - beyond what is offered through our Chapter/Club - and how to utilize them to accomplish your unique goals.

All sessions take place on Zoom at 10:00am-10:45am, CDT.

Grow Your Reach with an MPI Pittsburgh Partnership in 2025!

Looking to connect with key decision-makers in Pittsburgh’s thriving meetings and events industry? Partner with MPI Pittsburgh in 2025 and gain direct exposure to a network of 125+ engaged members—including event professionals from top corporations, associations, and universities.

Why Partner with Us?

• 47% of our members are meeting and event planners.
• 30% of our planners organize events across the Northeast region.
• Our members represent over $45 million in collective purchasing power.

Whether you're looking to build brand awareness, drive leads, or showcase your products and services to industry professionals, partnering with MPI Pittsburgh puts your business at the center of our dynamic, collaborative community.

Partnership Opportunities Include:

• Annual Partnerships (Carnegie, Liberty, Keystone & Steel City levels)
• Signature Event Sponsorships (GMID, May Celebration, Holiday Gala)
• Digital Communication Advertising (newsletters, social media, web)
• Monthly Education & Networking Event Partnerships
• In-Kind Partnerships (venues, F&B, décor, entertainment)

MPI Pittsburgh Chapter Member Award Nominations

Do you know a standout MPI Pittsburgh Chapter member who deserves recognition? Now’s your chance to nominate them for one of our prestigious award categories! Whether it’s a rising star or an industry leader, your nomination can shine a spotlight on their incredible contributions to our community.

MPI Pittsburgh Chapter Member Award nominations begin September 3, 2025 and are open until October 9, 2025

Before you complete the form below, please note:

• You can nominate as many people as you wish.
• You are not required to nominate in all categories.
• Nominees must be current members of MPI.
• Nominations are due by 5pm on Thursday, October 9th, 2025.

Member Award Categories

#1 Planner of the Year - Recognizes an active planner member who has demonstrated leadership, exemplary professionalism and has made significant contributions to MPI, MPI Pittsburgh Chapter or the meetings industry. Nominees will be considered for professional experience, involvement in MPI (local /global) and community service.

#2 Supplier of the Year - Recognizes the contributions and leadership of an active supplier member who continuously provides innovative services and or products to effectively support MPI, our Chapter and its members.

#3 Rising Star Award - Recognizes a newer member who has shown strong commitment and support and has contributed extraordinarily to the MPI Pittsburgh Chapter with their dedication, vision, enthusiasm and willingness to volunteer. Students will be considered for this Award as well.

#4 Volunteer of the Year - The Volunteer of the Year is awarded to a supplier, planner or student member (excluding the current Board members) who made an outstanding voluntary effort to the Chapter. This individual has been an active participant on one or more MPI Pittsburgh Chapter committees; designed, organized, delivered or administered new and ongoing programs MPI Pittsburgh Chapter; volunteers for other meeting industry or charitable organizations; and demonstrates a keen and sustained commitment to volunteering for MPI. Most of all, they should embody the spirit of volunteerism.

#5 Student Member of the Year - Student Member of the Year embodies the epitome of academic excellence and community leadership. Their stellar academic achievements stand as a testament to their dedication and hard work in the classroom. Beyond academics, they have emerged as a beacon of leadership within their MPI Chapter and community. Through active participation in various clubs and extracurricular activities, they have not only showcased their leadership abilities but have also led initiatives that have made a tangible difference. Their commitment to service and their ability to inspire others truly make them a role model for their peers and an asset to our school.

#6 Partner of the Year - The “Partner of the Year” award recognizes an individual, organization, or business that has gone above and beyond in supporting our chapter throughout the year. Whether through hosting events, providing valuable resources, volunteering time, or stepping in when we needed an extra hand, this award honors a true collaborator whose partnership helped make our programs and events successful. Nominees for this award may include venues, speakers, sponsors, or community members who consistently showed up, offered support, and contributed meaningfully to our mission. Their commitment and generosity made a lasting impact on our membership experience and chapter growth

September Member Spotlight

Jessica Cook

With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Jessica has built a well-rounded career spanning from intimate bed and breakfasts to large-scale theme park resorts, including Disney. She has worked with some of the most respected hotel brands in the world, such as Hilton and Marriott, gaining deep expertise in both sales and operations. This diverse background has prepared her for her current role as National Director of Sales at Kalahari Resorts.

💙 What first inspired you to pursue a career in meetings and events?

I've always had a passion for planning ever since I can remember. When I'm not helping plan meetings & events for my clients, I'm annoying my husband with personal family trips and vacations. There's no changing me:)

💭 What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way in this industry?

Burnt out is real! I've learned that if I'm feeling overwhelmed, it's best to realign my priorities if needed. This way, I can continue to provide quality experience to my clients while ensuring I still have a great work/life balance as a wife & mother.

🗻What advice would you give to someone just entering this profession?

Never burn a bridge:) Keep great relationships as you progress through your career and the successes will follow.

👯‍♀️What do you love most about being a member of MPI?

Relationship building is key in our industry and MPI does an outstanding job of creating networking friendly events that can allow a first timer to feel welcomed and set them up for success!

Refer a Friend!

Members, help a colleague, friend, or young professional enjoy the benefits of MPI membership... and save on your next renewal! Refer a friend to join MPI and give them the attached voucher. MPI will waive their application fee AND give you a credit towards your next renewal.

✨Thank you to our Sponsors✨

Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh University Center

Boasting over 8,000 square feet of versatile event space and 253 spacious, thoughtfully designed guestrooms, the Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh University Center is perfectly equipped to host your meetings, events, and group room blocks. Our dedicated staff takes great pride in delivering a seamless and memorable experience, ensuring every detail is attended to with care. When you choose to host your event with us, you’ll have everything you need for your meeting and more!

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