Carolina Blitz
Planner Partner Forum and Chapter Meeting
Sheraton Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC
February 6-7, 2025
CAROLINAS
Culinary Concierge for Meeting Planners
Stress free F&B Management!
Attending an event with dietary needs can be scary Are you prepared to accommodate your attendees?
WE OFFER:
Menu Planning & Analysis: Design menus that delight and accommodate
Dietary Needs Expertise: Training and on-site support to ensure safety and compliance.
Custom Solutions: Buffet labels, meal cards, and integration into your event plan.
hello@thrivemeetings.com • 404.242.0530 thrive meetings.com/services
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED
Carolina Blitz
The Carolina Blitz is the official publication of the Carolinas Chapter of Meeting Professionals International and is published quarterly. All contributions, articles, and photographs should be submitted to MPI-CC Publications Chair. Send to Rachel Mintel - mintel.rachel@gmail.com.
EDITORIAL AND NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE
Publications Chair
Rachel Mintel • UNC Chapel Hill
Editor
Rachel Mintel • UNC Chapel Hill
Contributing Writers
Nicole Filippo, CMP, Duke University; Kevin Holland, Richmond Region Tourism; Rachel Whitten, CMP, Visit Greenville, NC; Heather Hansen O'Neill; Alex Morales, DoubleTree by Hilton Charlotte Center City; Matt Villmer, Villmer Caudill, PLLC
Photographer
Brian Spann • Spann Mann Media
Proofreaders
Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Office; Melanie Mason, CMP, EnsembleIQ; Nicole Filippo, CMP, Duke University; Rachel Mintel, UNC Chapel Hill
Publisher
Christine Irwin, CMP • The Management Office christine@themanagementoffice.com
Advertising Christine Irwin, CMP • The Management Office christine@themanagementoffice.com
Design
Kistin Creative Studio • 704-724-9188 • kistincreative.com
MPI-CC Web Site: www.mpi.org/carolinas
ADVERTISING RATES AND DEADLINES AD SIZE
Quarter Page
Half Page Horizontal
(7 1/4”W x 4 3/4”H) 3X
Half Page Vertical 1X $420 $550 (3 1/2”W x 9 1/2”H) 3X $400/issue $530/issue
1/2”W x 11”H)
Full Page Insert 1X $700/issue $910/issue 3X $680/issue $890/issue 6X $640/issue $850/issue
(Produced and provided by advertiser)
There are four issues of the Carolina Blitz published yearly. Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall
NOTE: Rates are published as of January 2023, and are subject to change without notice. All published rates are net non-commissionable. Any cost incurred by the BLITZ for art that is not fully press ready (e.g. reductions, halftones) will be billed to the advertiser, or art that is not press ready may be refused.
DUE DATE: Due by the 15th of the month prior to publication. Artwork is due to the publisher within 10 days after deadline for space reservations.
SEND MATERIALS TO: Christine Irwin at The Management Office, 1307 West Morehead St, Suite 207, Charlotte, NC 28208 christine@themanagementoffice.com • Fax: 704-333-6927
For more advertising information contact Christine at christine@themanagementoffice.com or 704-377-5648
Visit our website at www.mpi.org/carolinas for additional advertising and sponsorship opportunities!
Sponsors
Diamond Sponsors Silver Sponsors Gold Sponsors
President’s Message
Winter
Duke University MPI-CC President
I am deeply humbled by the opportunity to continue serving our chapter and helping cultivate a community for connectors – people who are passionate about bringing people together .
As your president, my primary role is to serve you. This means advancing our chapter’s offerings and resources to better support members. I am committed to building on the strong foundation laid by past leaders and working closely with the board of directors to foster connections that inspire success, create impactful experiences and nurture a sense of belonging. Together, we will continue focusing on delivering value and growth opportunities for our members.
I encourage you to help fuel and build our community by becoming an active participant, whether that’s joining us for a chapter meeting or DEI Connects event, supporting a project, volunteering on a committee or sharing your feedback and ideas with the board. Let’s support each other, refer one another, be a resource for each other, and work together to advance our chapter.
I’ve had the honor to serve under the presidencies of Alison Harding, Nicole Keshler, Amelia Hodges, Ricardo Hicks, Brandon Crumpton, and Najauna White, and am grateful for the guidance and support of past presidents, industry friends, colleagues, The Management Office and a board who is eager to serve you.
Looking ahead, I am excited to continue investing in our community – one where we can connect, learn, grow, innovate and serve together.
Thank you for your ongoing support. I look forward to all we will achieve together in the coming year.
about Nicole
Joined MPI: 2006
First FT Industry Job:
Association Education & Meetings Assistant
Current Job:
Higher Education Communications Director
Former Committee Member:
• Education
• Publications
• MarComm/Social Media
Previous Board Roles:
• Director of Leadership & Volunteer Development
• Director of Marketing
• VP of Marketing & Communications
• VP of Program Development
• VP of Education
• President-Elect
Grew up in: New York
Last Vacation: Hawaii
Currently Reading:
• The Devil at His Elbow
• Pachinko
Rang in the New Year in: Greensboro
Nicole Filippo, CMP
Our Members
Meet the Member
Jessica I. Roberts
Mount Airy Tourism Development Authority
My guilty pleasure
Traveling, spa days, girls getaways with friends and family.
Favorite Vacation Spot
My next one! Love to travel anywhere at anytime!
What’s your favorite part of being a member of MPI-CC?
The amazing people who have been so welcoming and helpful for a newer member and wonderful networking opportunities. This is a great organization with strong leadership and helpful members.
“This is a great organization with strong leadership and helpful members.”
MPI and Service Leadership
As I step into my role as VP of Membership Engagement on the board of directors, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey that brought me here.
Throughout my career, one thing stands out above all else: the power of people. My mentors and mentees have been the cornerstone of my success, shaping and inspiring me in ways I’ll always cherish. Their guidance and encouragement have been invaluable.
I vividly remember joining MPI in 2020, during the post-pandemic recovery. From the very start, I was embraced by seasoned industry veterans who took me under their wing and showed me the ropes. Their servant leadership set the tone for my involvement, and their passion for giving back to MPI was truly infectious. They encouraged me to volunteer, participate, and contribute to the organization—embodying what it means to be a leader who gives selflessly.
Volunteering and engaging with the chapter are the lifeblood of MPI’s continued success. It’s the dedication of volunteers that makes our chapter vibrant and impactful. As we step into 2025, I wholeheartedly invite you to explore the “Get Involved” section of the MPI website. Here, you’ll discover a range of volunteer opportunities that not only enrich the chapter but also help you forge deeper connections and maximize your membership.
Imagine the difference you could make by joining one of our committees. Whether it’s contributing to event planning, membership growth, or education initiatives, your time and talent can leave a lasting impact.
To all our past and present volunteers: thank you. Your dedication fuels our chapter and strengthens our industry, and your efforts never go unnoticed.
If you’re searching for a meaningful way to give back this year, consider volunteering with the MPI Carolinas Chapter.
Alex Morales
DoubleTree by Hilton Charlotte Center City
MPI-CC VP of Membership Engagement
November 2024 - January 2025
Kim Bradford, CIS
The Set Collection
Taylor Chase Student
Kennady Clark Student
Kia Crow
Sara Dees Student
Winter 2025
20 Years
Julie Froehlich
Jackson Marketing Group, Inc
10 Years
Stacy Pegg Harrah's Cherokee Casino & Hotel
5 Years
Celia Stamps The Linux Foundation
Rachel Sheerin, CPBA RachelSheerin.com
Kim DaRoja Discover Puerto Rico
1 Year
Kate Kay FIRC Group
Jenny Friede
Julie Garver HelmsBriscoe
Ana Wein
Patrick Properties Hospitality Group
Jasmine Foust Discover Durham
Danna Lilly
Columbia Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Jessica Foster Go Team Events
Emma Hodges Student
Corinn Hovis
Jill Jackson Student
Deanna Jones
Alice Nigam
Brighthouse Financial
Lindsay Orem
Zachary Reed, CVP
Raleigh Convention Center
Braya Stokes
Northwood Hospitality
Abbey Wilson Student
Emily Lansford Enlyte
Durham Convention Center Welcome New Members!
Casey Deans
Anna Monroe AICPA & CIMA
Lindsay Wood AICPA & CIMA
Susan Ballard HelmsBriscoe
Sarah Hubbard
Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa
Charlotte Grant
Gracie Dunn Student
Genevieve Young
The Newest Kalahari Resorts & Conventions: Spotsylvania County, Virginia
Kalahari Resorts is set to open new resort with amenities planners crave in late 2026
Q: When are you opening in Spotsylvania County, Virginia?
A: Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is set to open its fifth resort in Spotsylvania County, VA in late 2026! After years of planning and construction, we can’t wait to welcome guests to experience all that Kalahari has to offer, from our expansive convention spaces featuring 30,000-square-foot and 18,000-square-foot ballrooms to our massive indoor waterpark and adventure park. We are also proud to offer a variety of dining options to our guests, including signature on-site restaurants and private dining spaces. This opening will mark another milestone for Kalahari and we’re excited to bring a one-of-a-kind destination to the region.
Q: What can guests expect to see at this location?
booking stays at the Spotsylvania County Kalahari Resort location in early 2026.
Q: When do you expect that we can start touring the property?
A: We broke ground on our fifth Kalahari Resorts and Conventions location in Spotsylvania County in October 2023. We’re eagerly working toward our exciting opening in late 2026, but there’s a lot of work to be done. We’re in the middle of that process and since construction started, the local area has begun to watch the transformation, prompting a lot of interest in scheduling hard-hat tours. We anticipate beginning those in late 2025.
A: You may have started to see the massive construction site, located along I-95, halfway between Richmond, VA, and Washington, D.C. as construction is well under way. The Spotsylvania County Kalahari Resort location will offer an attractive meeting venue offering all-under-one-roof solutions for events of all sizes. Our resort will feature 907 guest rooms and suites, a brilliantly designed layout, and a variety of on-site amenities, providing the perfect atmosphere for both business and leisure. Kalahari Resorts and Conventions provides a platform for creative events, with the potential of incorporating unique team-building activities such as our ropes course, climbing walls and indoor adventure park challenges. We’re also excited to introduce a beautiful event barn, offering groups a distinct atmosphere which they can work into their event. Also available at the resort will be 12 on-site food & beverage outlets; everything from awardwinning fine dining to casual eats. The resort will provide guests an authentically African-themed experience aims to become a premier destination in the region.
Q: When can we start booking?
A: Now! We already have many conventions secured for 2027 and beyond! Planners can submit an RFP today at kalaharimeetings.com. Leisure guests can anticipate
Q: What do groups love most about Kalahari?
A: Kalahari is a true destination on its own and we pride ourselves in that. As an attendance boosting destination, many of the organizations who host events at Kalahari Resorts report a 15% – 20% increase in attendance when holding their events with us as opposed to other locations. This can be tied to the resorts’ seamless blend of business and leisure in an all-under-one-roof destination. Meeting attendees appreciate the state-of-the-art convention spaces as well as the resort’s world-class dining, award-winning indoor/outdoor waterparks and attractions, retail options and more. Kalahari’s ability to transform a business trip into a family-friendly getaway is a standout feature — what starts as a work obligation often becomes an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Q: What are the expected community benefits?
A: The opening of Kalahari Resorts & Conventions will attract more visitors and businesses to Virginia, which will generate hospitality jobs and create a significant economic impact for the region. The new resort is expected to generate millions of dollars in annual revenue and create roughly 1,400 positions, from entry-level to executive roles in operations, hospitality, management, and more. These opportunities will offer full-time, parttime and seasonal employment, benefiting the community and boosting the local economy while driving growth across the region.
Volunteer with MPI-CC
As the Director of Volunteer Engagement for the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Carolinas Chapter, I am thrilled to kick off this year with a renewed focus on the power of volunteering. Volunteering is at the heart of what makes our chapter thrive, and we are excited to offer various opportunities to get involved, make connections, and grow personally and professionally.
Volunteering with MPI Carolinas Chapter opens doors to meaningful experiences. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your career, giving your time and talents can help you build lasting relationships, enhance your skill set, and gain invaluable industry insights. Our chapter relies on volunteers to support a wide range of initiatives, from event planning and membership engagement to educational programming and marketing efforts. There is truly something for everyone, regardless of your interests or expertise.
This year, we are focused on creating more accessible opportunities for members to participate. Additionally, we are placing a special emphasis on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. These opportunities allow volunteers to contribute to meaningful causes that align with our values, giving back to our communities
while making a positive impact. Whether organizing a charity drive, supporting local nonprofits, or integrating sustainability efforts into our events, CSR initiatives are our key priority this year.
As we begin this new year, I challenge each of you to consider how you can make a difference.
Volunteering with MPI Carolinas Chapter is more than just an act of service— it’s a pathway to growth, connection, and success. Let’s work together to make this year extraordinary!
“Volunteering with MPI Carolinas Chapter opens doors to meaningful experiences.”
If you’re ready to take the first step, contact me or any member of the board. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Volunteer Family.
Kevin Holland Richmond Region Tourism MPI-CC Director of Volunteer Engagement
Monthly Meeting Planner
February 6-7, 2025
MPI Carolinas Connection: Planner Partner Forum and Chapter Meeting
Sheraton Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC
April 3, 2025
Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) Charlotte, NC
May 29-30, 2025
Chapter Meeting
Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center Columbia, SC
August 21-22, 2025 Chapter Meeting
Great Wolf Lodge Charlotte/Concord Concord, NC
November 2-4, 2025
MPI-CC Annual Meeting, Awards Gala & 2026 Board Installation Beaufort Hotel Beaufort, NC
Reminder: Deadline for submissions for the next Carolina Blitz is Friday, March 28, 2025. Please submit any articles or photographs to be considered for publication to MPI-CC Publications Chair Rachel Mintel at mintel.rachel@gmail.com.
Photo by 2hmedia on unsplash
MPI-CC 2025 Board of Directors and Chairs
Leadership
President Nicole Filippo, CMP Duke University nicole.filippo@gmail.com
President-Elect
Seth Macci LEMG seth.m@lemg.live
Immediate Past President Najauna White, CMP, CDE Miles Partnership Najauna.white@gmail.com
Chapter Administrator Christine Irwin, CMP The Management Office Christine@ themanagementoffice.com
Communications
VP of Marketing and Communications
Melanie Mason, CMP EnsembleIQ Melanie.mason35@gmail.com
Education
VP of Education
Rachel Whitten, CMP Visit Greenville, NC RWhitten@greenvillenc.gov
Education Committee Chair
Ebony Loadholt Urban Sustainability Directors Network ebonyloadholt@usdn.org
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
VP of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Star Robertson Parks Hospitality Group star.robertson@parkshotels.com
Finance
VP of Finance
Karen Wall Visit Winston-Salem karen@visitwinstonsalem.com
Member Engagement
VP of Member Engagement
Alex Morales DoubleTree by Hilton Charlotte City Center alex.morales@hilton.com
Social Media Chair
Samantha Green Ewald Visit Charlotte samantha.green@visitcharlotte.com
Publications Chair Rachel Mintel UNC Chapel Hill mintel.rachel@gmail.com
Director of Meeting Planning Gineen Cargo, CMP Cargo & Co. LLC gineen.cargo@gmail.com
Meeting Planning Committee Anna Monroe AICPA & CIMA Anna.Monroe@aicpa-cima.com
Professional Certifications Committee Co-Chair
Tessa Barrier, CMP MHI TBarrier@mhi.org
Professional Certifications Committee Co-Chair
Tarshi McCoy, CMP, CHSP, TMP Riverfront Convention Center of Craven County tmccoy@cravencountync.gov
DEI Committee Chair
FUNdraising Committee Chair
Member Engagement Committee Chair
Director of Fundraising
Kathryn Short Visit Raleigh kshort@visitraleigh.com
Director of Volunteer Engagement
Kevin Holland Richmond Region Tourism kholland@visitrichmondva.com
Planner Partner Forum Committee Chair
Floyd Isley Atrium Hospitality floyd.isley@atriumhospitality.com
Volunteer Engagement Committee Chair
Wonderland Dawson 3D Hospitality, LLC wddawson3@gmail.com
Look Who We Spotted...
at the November Chapter Meeting
Planner of the Year
Tessa Barrier, CMP
Tessa is the co-chair of the professional certifications committee and has successfully co-led the MPI-CC CMP study group for the past few years. She is the Manager for Meetings & Events at MHI and previously worked as an Event Manager at Dentsply Sirona. She earned her CMP in 2018 and is a former board member for HOPEMatch, a non-profit organization helping underserved families in the Charlotte area .
Supplier of the Year
Malinda Harrell, CMP Fellow, CASE
Malinda, an MPI-CC past president, remains a dedicated supporter of our chapter through mentoring, assisting anti-human trafficking education initiatives and serving on the nominations committee and DEI committees. She was honored as a CMP Fellow by the Events Industry Council in 2022 and is a past chair for the MPI Global Anti-Human Trafficking Committee. A hospitality industry veteran of 25+ years, Malinda is currently the Director of Sales for the Greater Raleigh CVB.
Tomorrow’s Leader
Kevin Holland
Kevin, a National Sales Manager with Richmond Region Tourism, quickly became an active member of our chapter upon joining MPI. Dedicated to making a positive impact, he has volunteered with the education and DEI committees, served as a panelist for our Global Meetings Industry Day event, and created the chapter’s DEI Tip Tuesday social media series. In 2025, he joins the MPI-CC Board of Directors as the Director of Volunteer Engagement.
Volunteer of the Year
Jason Arnold
Jason, an Association and Corporate Sales Manager with the Cabarrus County Convention and Visitors Bureau, has demonstrated exceptional commitment and dedication as a volunteer. As an education committee member, he plays a key role in planning and executing our educational sessions and contributes to the Blitz newsletter by writing education recap articles. He also serves on the Planner Partner Forum committee, shared his industry experience as a panelist at our November meeting, and doesn’t hesitate to offer his support.
Hall of Fame
Tarshi McCoy, CMP, CHSP, TMP
Tarshi has been an active member of MPI for many years and is always raising her hand to volunteer wherever needed. She currently co-chairs the MPI-CC professional certifications committee and was a long-time volunteer on the awards committee. Tarshi has over 20 years’ experience in the hospitality and tourism industry and is the Director of the Riverfront Convention Center in New Bern. She previously held roles as the Executive Director of Visit New Bern and Director of Sales and Services with Visit Greenville NC. Outside of MPI, she is a member of Association Executives of North Carolina and International Association of Venue Managers and serves on the Swiss Bear Downtown Development Board of Directors and New Bern Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
Corey D. Bizzell Award of Excellence
This award was selected by Najauna White, 2023-24 MPI-CC Presidentt Nicole Keshler
When I reflect on the phrase “constant advocate,” Nicole is the person who immediately comes to mind. Throughout my 18 months as President, there were numerous times when I needed advocacy and guidance. What I valued most about Nicole’s support is that her advocacy wasn’t always about agreeing with me, but offering a different perspective on what I truly needed to hear. I had the privilege of working alongside Nicole during her term, and her unwavering support, not just as a member but as a Past President, made a real difference. Nicole, having you in my corner has been invaluable. Thank you for your continued dedication to our chapter and the meetings industry.
President’s Award
This award was selected by Najauna White, 2023-24 MPI-CC Presidentt
Brandon Crumpton
Brandon embodies what it means to give 110% (even if it seems like cool, calm and collected), and I can personally attest to how much his support has meant to me. There were moments during my service when I felt overwhelmed, stressed, and defeated, when I thought about throwing in the towel. In those tough times, I was call Brandon. As a member, he shared his thoughts on what needed to happen for us to succeed as a board. As a board member and Immediate Past President, he didn’t shy away from tough conversations, particularly around setting strategic goals, delegation, and boundaries. These discussions were NEEDED for us to regain financial health, build a cohesive board, and ensure I was able to lead with clarity and confidence. Brandon, your guidance has been a true gift to me and this chapter. Thank you for your unwavering support.
Committees of the Year
This award was selected by Najauna White, 2023-24 MPI-CC President
Auctions & Business Exchange
Business Exchange Committee:
Christian Schroeder, Chair
Ariana Pearsall
Floyd Isley
Auctions Committee:
Nicole Keshler, Chair
Kathryn Short
Shelley Cromartie
Maria Lopez
Chapter Event of the Year
This award was voted on by members
February 2024 Chapter Meeting
Host: Embassy Suites by Hilton Asheville Downtown
Meeting partner: Explore Asheville
Sessions and Speakers:
Exploring Audio-Visual:
A Collaborative Journey
Moderator: Ricardo Hicks
Panelists: John Self, Mike Mincello, Seth Macchi, Kristie Hicks
Engagement Unleashed: Empowering Gen-Z+ in Your Multigenerational Workplace
Luke Goetting
Sort it out!
Kristin Walker
Engagement Unleashed Panel +
Q&A: Beyond the Keynote Moderator: Luke Goetting
Panelists: Kate Jansen, Nicole Filippo, Holden Ballard
DEI Roundtables
Facilitators: Najauna White, Mitch Savoie Hill
Opening Hearts, Minds, and Doors!
When we serve from a heart-centered presence and cultivate an adventure mindset, the doors of opportunity will open for us.
In the meeting industry, we know that live events have the power to change the world. We connect deeper, explore different perspectives, and touch people in a way that inspires them to action. HOW we do that can at times become challenging, even arduous. To continually stay motivated and innovative requires us to consistently surround ourselves with the best and bring new ideas to the table.
• Release what’s not working and fill yourself so that you can continue to show up as your best self.
• Surround yourself with those who support and lift you — who are further on the path of where you want to go.
• Be the Candle — that beacon of light that brightens your team, family, event, and community.
The panel of experts closed us out with real life examples of how they’ve used the Adventure Mindset to solve problems and inspire hope with their stories. Thank you — Ebony R Loadholt, Jason Arnold, and Mary Margaret Armstrong. You were a pleasure to work with!
Top Tips include:
At the November educational program, we did just that. Thank you, brilliant members, for showing up! On Monday, we looked out how to infuse nature into our events to generate energy, engage attendees, increase takeaways and solve problems. Here’s a quick video clip from the day one keynote.
Top Tips include:
• Incorporate the EARTH element if you’re looking to align teams to company purpose and values, enhance processes, and to provide stability.
• Add WATER if you want to build rapport, improve communication, and generate a sense of well-being and positivity.
• Breathe AIR into your event to rejuvenate, innovate, and share solutions and bring clarity.
• Spark growth, motivation, positive change, and energy with the FIRE element.
• And don’t forget to weave HUMANITY throughout to breakdown walls, touch hearts, and make the event about something BIGGER.
On Tuesday, we used the same Elements of Adventure model to provide the leader (YOU!) with tools to press outside of our individual comfort zones to achieve your own goals and to make a meaningful difference in the world.
Top Tips include:
• Become aware of the judgments, assumptions, fears, and limiting beliefs that may currently be keeping you from all that is possible in your business and life.
• Ebony resonated with the ‘Curiosity’ element of adventure, asking great questions and being open to ongoing consistent improvement.
• Jason focused more on expanding ‘Courage’ in himself, his career, and his family — knowing that doing the uncomfortable things were what helped him become ready for that next right action.
• Mary-Margaret chose ‘Resilience’, demonstrating the strength of getting up and moving forward no matter what happens in our ever-changing industry and world.
For those of you who joined us in November, thank you! Thank you for showing up and engaging. To those of you who took the time to share your experience and lessons online, and to those who gave me feedback. This is an impressive group of meeting professionals looking to absorb, grow, and to contribute.
Keep serving with a willing heart and open mind — because not only will they open doors for you — but it’s what this amazing industry of ours requires. If I can help guide you in the journey, don’t hesitate to reach out at Heather@HeatherHansenONeill.com
Heather Hansen O’Neill is an international keynote speaker, behavioral expert, 4x author, and adventurer. She is also a 2x TEDx speaker, host of the popular podcast From Fear to Fire and Humanity of Sales radio show. Her newest book Finding Humanity: The Evolution of Sales as well as her Elite Sales Alliance are both launching this month. Heather’s signature model, The Elements of Adventure is the powerful framework she utilizes to empower leaders, ignite results, and change the world…one adventure at a time. Find out more at heatherhansenoneill.com
Fired Up for 2025 Education for MPI Carolinas
As I step into the role of Vice President of Education for MPI Carolinas Chapter in 2025, I am energized by the opportunities ahead.
This role allows me to collaborate with an incredible team, including the Director of Meeting Planning and the Education Committee Chair, to bring high-quality education and experiences to our members. Together, we will plan and execute the four chapter meetings our members look forward to each year. These events are more than dates on a calendar—they are moments of learning, connection, and growth for our community.
Listening to Our Membership
One of my primary goals in this role is to ensure our education programming reflects the needs and interests of our members. Our planners, suppliers, and everyone in between bring unique perspectives and challenges to the table. To that end, I encourage all of you to share your thoughts and suggestions for topics you want to see covered in our meetings. Did you know we have a suggestion box on our website? This is your chance to directly influence the content we deliver. Your input will help us curate sessions that are not only relevant but also impactful for your professional growth.
Planning with Intention
One of the key initiatives for 2025 is to have our events and speakers planned at least 100 days in advance. This timeline allows members ample time to plan their attendance, secure approvals from their leadership, and integrate our meetings into their schedules. We understand that many of you need to submit requests to your respective leaders to attend events—having a clear and early roadmap of our programming will make this process easier.
Additionally, this timeline aligns with our commitment to professionalism and preparedness. When we share event details early, it fosters excitement and ensures we’re delivering on our promise of value to our members. “Mark your calendars now” isn’t just a reminder; it’s a call to action to prioritize your professional development and networking opportunities with MPI Carolinas Chapter
A Heartfelt Thank You
As we look forward, it’s equally important to acknowledge the incredible foundation laid by those before us. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to last year’s meeting planning team for their diligent work in booking and sharing the 2025 meeting dates with our membership as early as last August. Having this foresight provides members with a clear line of sight to key events, helping them plan their year with confidence. Your work has set the stage for success, and we are deeply grateful for your efforts.
Upcoming Events: February and Beyond
Our first chapter meeting of the year in February is just around the corner, and I couldn’t be more excited about what’s in store. This meeting will also feature our newly redesigned Table Top Trade Show, now called the Planner Partner Forum. This fresh approach to connecting planners and suppliers is all about creating meaningful interactions and fostering partnerships that drive our industry forward. If you haven’t already, be sure to sign up today—you won’t want to miss this!
MPI CAROLINAS CONNECTION:
Planner Partner Forum & Chapter Meeting
Don’t miss the chance to participate in this transformative experience! Here are some key sessions and details:
The ART of Leading and Communicating
Presented by Jason Godwin
This dynamic session will equip participants with tools to enhance communication in high-stress scenarios. Jason Godwin’s insights from his career as a Special Agent and Police Chief will inspire participants to improve conflict resolution, negotiation, and nonverbal communication skills.
CMP Information Session
Presented by Molly Johnson, CMP-Fellow, QAS & Tarshi McCoy, CMP, CHSP, TMP
Thinking about earning your CMP designation?
This session will cover:
• Setting up an account with the EIC and tracking CE hours.
• Qualifications for the CMP application.
• Resources such as MPI-CC’s virtual CMP Study Group and in-person CMP Bootcamp.
• Costs and other key details.
Legal Hot Topics Every Meeting Professional Must Know
Presented by Matt Villmer, Villmer Caudill, PLLC
This practical session will explore crucial contract provisions, such as: force majeure, choice of law and jurisdiction, confidentiality, arbitration clauses, media release agreements and more. Attendees will leave equipped to strengthen their contracts and protect their events.
Beyond the Plate: Elevating DEIA Through Event Food & Beverage
Presented by Tracy Stuckrath, thrive! meetings & events
Understanding the Latest in Economic and Tourism Trends Impacting the Meeting Industry
Presented by Christian Savelli, Tourism Economics
Gain an understanding of 2025’s economic trends and their impact on consumers, the travel industry, and meetings. This session will help you anticipate industry challenges and opportunities.
Discover how intentional food and beverage planning can promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). Learn actionable strategies to create dining experiences that celebrate inclusion and build stronger community connections.
As we move through the year, I’ll continue to share updates and insights on our progress. My hope is that every member finds value in what we’re building together. Whether it’s through compelling speakers, thought-provoking sessions, or the connections you make at our events, MPI Carolinas Chapter is here to support your journey.
We want to hear from
Rachel Whitten, CMP
Visit Greenville, NC
MPI-CC VP of Education
[Assisted by ChatGPT]
Share your feedback with the MPI-CC Board of Directors on ways we can enhance your membership at the chapter level. Visit our digital suggestion box
Navigating Complex Contracts Essential Insights for Meeting & Event Professionals
The realm of meeting and event planning has grown increasingly complex, demanding that professionals stay informed about legal frameworks that impact their contracts. When working to plan for your next event or meeting, look at the contracts you’re using and consider whether they adequately protect the party you represent.
First, consider force majeure clauses. These clauses were often overlooked before the COVID-19 pandemic, but they have now become indispensable. These clauses account for unforeseeable events that prevent contract performance, such as natural disasters, pandemics, or government shutdowns. When reviewing a force majeure clause, keep the following in mind:
• Specificity is crucial. Define applicable events clearly to avoid “scope creep.” For instance, explicitly mention “pandemics” or “quarantine orders” but avoid ambiguous terms.
• Postponement over termination. Consider allowing performance delays rather than outright termination to preserve relationships and revenue streams.
• Reciprocity. Ensure the party you represent can benefit from the clause, just like the party that drafted the contract.
Second, think a bit about the contract’s integration clause. Integration clauses limit the agreement to the written contract, preventing parties from relying on oral promises or external documents.
If you’re looking over an integration clause, consider the following:
• Incorporate all agreements. Ensure that every understanding, from pricing to additional services, is documented within the contract.
• Written amendments only. Changes must be in writing and agreed upon by all parties—emails can suffice as valid documentation if kept formal.
• Avoid “he said, she said” scenarios: Explicitly state that the contract supersedes all prior negotiations.
Third, indemnification clauses are probably one of the most important aspects of any contract. Indemnification clauses determine who bears the responsibility if a third party files a claim. Think about the following when you review an indemnification clause:
• Reciprocal indemnity. Both parties should agree to indemnify the other for claims arising from their negligence or intentional misconduct.
• Tailor to specific risks. Include special provisions for scenarios like alcohol-related liabilities (dram shop laws).
• Link to insurance. Pair strong indemnification terms with robust insurance policies to ensure enforceability.
Forth, you can easily limit your client’s liability with certain contract language. Litigation risks are inherent in any business, and limitation of liability clauses can help cap potential damages, for example. When considering this type of a clause, consider:
• Cap damages. Limit liability to the amount paid under the contract.
• Exclude certain claims. Exclude liability for punitive damages, emotional distress, or lost profits where legally permissible.
• Be mindful of state laws. Some states restrict liability limitations, especially in lodging agreements.
Fifth, you should think about whether a liquidated damages provision is appropriate. Liquidated damages clauses predefine the compensation for specific breaches, such as unmet room blocks. Think about:
• Reasonable estimates only. Ensure the amount reflects a reasonable estimate of lost profits, not gross revenue, to avoid being classified as a penalty.
• Duty to mitigate. Include a clause requiring the injured party to attempt reselling unutilized rooms.
Sixth, you should keep any litigation risk local with a choice of law and jurisdiction clause. Choice of law and jurisdiction clauses dictate where and under which laws disputes will be resolved. When reviewing these clauses, consider:
• Stay local. Litigate under your state’s law in a nearby jurisdiction to reduce costs and inconvenience.
• Leverage in negotiations. Use this clause to gain a strategic advantage by imposing logistical challenges on the other party.
Seventh, arbitration clauses are the new rage in the lodging industry. Arbitration can be a cost-effective and confidential alternative to litigation, but it requires careful drafting to avoid pitfalls. A few key tips:
• Set the rules. Define procedural details, such as the number of arbitrators, location, and timeline for resolution.
• Ban class actions. Include provisions prohibiting class or collective actions to minimize exposure.
• Balance costs. Specify who bears arbitration costs, ensuring fairness.
Eighth, feel free to use non-disparagement clauses, when appropriate. Event professionals and venues live and die by online reviews. Non-disparagement clauses aim to prevent reputational harm. A few thoughts when reviewing these clauses:
• Follow FTC guidelines. Restrict the clause to false, misleading, or defamatory reviews to comply with the Consumer Review Fairness Act.
• Leverage liquidated damages: Include realistic compensation for violations to deter negative publicity.
By implementing these strategies in your contract review and drafting work, event professionals can create contracts that reduce risk, foster trust, and uphold the integrity of their agreements. Staying vigilant about these legal tools ensures smoother operations and protects businesses in a complex and dynamic industry.
Matt Villmer is a business and litigation attorney with Villmer Caudill, PLLC, based in Charlotte. His legal practice focuses on contract drafting, new business startup, mergers & acquisitions, intellectual property protection, and high-conflict litigation.
I am so proud to announce that my daughter has received the honor of her Samoan Malu. Listen as I share the history and meaning of this beautiful rite of passage; it is a living symbol that carries forward the wisdom and values of the Samoan people.
The Malu is a traditional tattoo that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance within the Samoan community. It is a symbol of identity, heritage, and respect for one's cultural roots. This intricate designed tattoo is worn by women and carries with it a profound connection to the Samoan way of life.
DEI Elegance of The Samoan Malu
ta tatau. This process was meticulous and took eight hours, requiring much patience as her family surrounded her. The tattooing process itself was not just about physical pain, but also spiritual growth. The ceremony brought her closer to her ancestors, grounding her in the sacred history of her people. During the process, there were prayers, rituals, and songs to ensure her connection to her lineage and the land was strengthened.
The Malu is a traditional tattoo that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance within the Samoan community.
Culturally, the word Malu itself means "protection" or "shelter" in the Samoan language. It symbolizes the protection of a woman's dignity, her family, and her role within the community. Traditionally, the Malu is seen as a rite of passage, marking the transition from girlhood to womanhood, and signifies a woman’s maturity, her readiness to contribute to her community, and her alignment with the values and customs of her ancestors.
The Samoan Malu was applied in a traditional manner using hand-tapping techniques by skilled tattoo artists called tufuga
In the Samoan culture, family is at the heart of everything, and the tattoo represents her role as a caregiver, protector, and nurturer. A woman who bears the Malu is seen as someone who upholds the values of respect, dignity, and hospitality—qualities that are deeply cherished in Samoan society.
We all have something that makes us unique and special. Embrace and cherish our individual cultures as we walk into 2025.
Joyce Worrell Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel MPI-CC DEI Committee
Inspiring Spaces Igniting Greatness
Centrally located in North Carolina, Winston-Salem is a welcoming meeting destination with a history committed to reinvention and innovation. Named one of the South’s Best Cities on the Rise by Southern Living, Winston-Salem boasts the recently expanded 150,000-square-foot Benton Convention Center in the heart of our vibrant, walkable downtown. Elevate your next event in Benton South’s reimagined meeting space featuring the 24,000-square-foot Gallery Ballroom. Winston-Salem will have you looking forward to playing, meeting, and staying in our hip and historic city. To learn more, contact Christian Schroeder, Director of Sales and Services at Christian@VisitWinstonSalem.com, or Karen Wall, Senior Sales Manager, at Karen@VisitWinstonSalem.com, or visit VisitWinstonSalem.com
