PCMA Institute

Business Event Strategist Certification Office Hours
2026-09-10 11:30 - 12:00, 2026-08-13 11:30 - 12:00, 2026-07-09 11:30 - 12:00, 2026-06-11 11:30 - 12:00, 2026-05-14 11:30 - 12:00 (America/Chicago)
Join us for a live, 30-minute Q&A to learn more about the Business Event Strategist (BES) Certification and application process.

What to Expect:

Live Q&A with the PCMA Institute team

Guidance on the BES application process

Opportunity to ask questions in real time

Insight into whether BES is the right fit

Who Should Attend:

Event professionals considering BES

Individuals preparing their application

Anyone interested in advancing their strategic impact

RSVP for Office hours

The Questions Keeping Event Leaders Up at Night, Answered
2026-05-28 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago)
This free webinar is made possible with the support of our sponsor, 360 Live Media.

Events feel harder right now because they are. Costs keep rising, participation is unpredictable, and the metrics we’ve been using are no longer telling the full story. What’s more, event leaders are being asked to deliver more with the outdated models that stopped serving us years ago.

The good news is, we know what needs to change.

In this live discussion, three experienced event leaders share how they are rethinking their approach in real time. Grounded in the most common questions we’re hearing from the events community, this conversation focuses on three critical shifts: what stays and what goes in your event portfolio, how to redefine success in a way that reflects today’s reality, and how to guide stakeholders toward smarter, more confident decisions.

You’ll hear how small changes can unlock major results, how data can reshape the conversation, and how to guide committees through moments of uncertainty without losing momentum. This is a practical, honest look at what it takes to create events in today’s world.

In this session, you’ll learn how to:

Understand a practical approach to get started with evaluating your event portfolio.

Gather insights on relevant metrics to measure event impact.

Gain tools on how to lead more effective decision-making conversations that help your stakeholders move forward.

Can’t attend live? Register now to receive the recording.

RSVP Now

Measure What Matters: Sustainability Tracking & Interpretation Strategies for Event Professionals
2026-04-29 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago)
This free webinar is made possible with the support of our sponsor, Honeycomb Strategies.

Strong data has the power to shape more sustainable events — but collecting it is only half the battle. The real opportunity lies in knowing how to interpret and act on what the numbers are telling you. When event professionals move beyond spreadsheets and start visualizing and understanding their sustainability data, they unlock smarter decisions, stronger outcomes, and greater accountability across the entire event lifecycle.

In the spirit of PCMA Convening Leaders’ ethos of “Sustainability By Design,” this webinar brings together practitioners who are doing exactly that — using data to drive informed, intentional choices at every stage of event planning.

Corey Clark of Honeycomb Strategies will share best practices, frameworks, and methodologies for approaching sustainable decision-making through data, including how tools like HIVE support goal-setting, certification milestones like EIC, vendor outreach, and on-site sustainability programming.

Joining the conversation is Karla Zander, Director of Operations & Experience at PCMA. She will share her firsthand experiences using HIVE to navigate sustainability tracking in real-world event planning environments — from the challenges they faced to the strategies that made a difference.

In this session, you’ll learn how to:

Set strategic, measurable sustainability goals for your events

Collect, visualize, and interpret sustainability data to inform decision-making

Apply tracking frameworks and methodologies regardless of the tools you use

Align sustainability initiatives with broader organizational values

Communicate your impact effectively to stakeholders and participants

Can’t attend live? Register now to receive the recording.

RSVP Now

Power Talk: Designing Belonging with Dr. Tanisha King
2026-03-31 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago)
This free webinar is made possible with the support of our sponsor, Visit Greater Palm Springs.

Psychological safety plays a powerful role in shaping whether people feel comfortable participating, sharing ideas, and engaging meaningfully in group environments. For meeting and event professionals, the way experiences are designed—from registration to room setup to speaker engagement—can either invite participation or unintentionally create barriers to it.

This session explores the significance of psychological safety in meetings and events and why it is essential to attendee engagement, learning, and collaboration. Participants will learn how everyday design choices and subtle environmental signals influence how people interpret whether they belong and whether their voice is welcomed.

By the end of the session, event professionals will better understand how psychological safety impacts attendee experience and how intentional design practices can create more engaging, participatory, and successful events.

Following Dr. King’s Power Talk: hear from a panel of experts to dive deeper into the financial, scientific, and practical applications of creating psychological safety at events.

Learning Objectives:

Define psychological safety and its importance in meetings and events.

Identify signals within event environments that influence whether attendees feel safe to engage.

Apply simple strategies to support psychological safety and increase meaningful participation.

CEU: 1

Can’t attend live? Register now to receive the recording.

Register Now

State of the Industry
2026-01-29 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
REGISTER NOW

This free webinar is made possible with the support of our sponsor, Visit Anaheim.As we move into 2026, business events sit at the intersection of strategic transformation and operational excellence. This session explores how event professionals can evolve from logistics coordinators to strategic business partners who drive measurable organizational value.Drawing from the latest industry research, we’ll examine the shift to strategic event portfolios, AI-powered ROI analytics, hybrid engagement models, and data storytelling frameworks that secure executive buy-in.Can’t attend live? Register now to receive the recording.

Register Now

Beyond the Platform
2025-11-06 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
REGISTER NOW

For event professionals, registration is more than a form—it’s the start of your participant experience and a lever for long-term organizational impact. But is your tech strategy truly supporting marketing, education, and year-round engagement?Join the PCMA Institute for “Beyond the Platform: How Your Approach Can Have Long-Term Impact,” featuring Vinnu Deshetty (PCMA Institute Instructor) and Matt Dodson (A2Z Events).This interactive webinar will help you look past the feature checklist and build a smarter, outcome-driven event tech strategy. Discover how to:

Choose technology that supports your association’s goals

Turn event data into insights that fuel marketing and ROI

Align teams around a tech approach that delivers long-term value

Tackle today’s complex event tech landscape with guidance from experts who make strategy clear, practical, and achievable for every association.

Register Now

Budgeting for a Shifting Global Economy
2025-07-24 11:30 - 12:30 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
Against a backdrop of evolving U.S. trade policies and economic uncertainty, business events professionals are facing heightened complexity in planning and execution. The ripple effects of tariffs, inflation, and supply chain disruptions are placing new pressure on budgets, timelines, and stakeholder expectations.

In this forward-focused webinar, a panel of industry experts will unpack how shifting economic conditions are influencing event planning and will provide timely insights into how these developments impact everything from venue sourcing and transportation to production and pricing.

You’ll gain strategies to build more resilient budgets, navigate uncertainty with confidence, and align internal and external stakeholders around adaptable event plans. Whether you’re planning a global conference or a regional meeting, this session will help you future-proof your approach and deliver value in any economic environment.

By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

Integrate contingency planning into event budgets to manage potential cost fluctuations and delays.

Develop agile financial frameworks that allow for rapid adjustments in response to economic volatility.

Recognize early indicators of market disruption and prepare adaptive budgeting responses.

Communicate financial changes clearly to clients, sponsors, and leadership to foster transparency and alignment.

Analyze post-event data to improve forecasting and mitigate risk in future planning cycles.

Brought to you by IHG® Hotels & Resorts

REGISTER NOW

Speakers:

Isaac J. Collazo is vice president, STR Inc., a division of CoStar Group, that provides market data on the hotel industry worldwide, including supply and demand and market share data. Mr. Collazo’s responsibilities include ascertaining, prioritizing, and executing opportunities to harvest data through innovative analysis; alterations to collection/storage of data; identification of data gaps and collection opportunities; and establishment of external partnerships. He also drives new products/services along with developing new methods for displaying data and increasing its narration. Other duties include integrating STR into the CoStar data platform and providing counsel on STR’s lodging industry forecast process and its economic foundation. Prior to joining STR, Mr. Collazo was Vice President, Competitive Intelligence at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and was responsible for ensuring effective cross-utilization of intelligence as well as overseeing a broad range of functional responsibilities, including competitive performance analysis, predictive analytics/modeling and interpreting the macro-economic environment. He also held other roles at IHG including vice president, performance strategy & planning and vice president, operations strategy & planning in the Americas. Before IHG, Mr. Collazo was vice president, strategic brand knowledge with Marriott International where he led their guest satisfaction program and competitive analysis group. He also served with Promus Hotel Corporation (acquired by Hilton). His responsibilities there included the administration and management of market and customer tracking systems and the development and communication of strategic briefs. Mr. Collazo began his career in the hospitality industry in 1987 with La Quinta Inns. Mr. Collazo holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, and radio, television & film from Trinity University and a master of business administration from the University of Texas at Austin.

Alexandra LaLoggia, Area Director of Sales and Marketing, mainly based at InterContinental Chicago and additionally supports the sales efforts at the Kimpton Journeyman Milwaukee and Kimpton Gray Chicago. Within this role, Alexandra supports and oversee sales and marketing strategies across the hotels, work with the DOSM’s in driving growth, and enhancing the IHG Luxury and Lifestyle brand presence.

Alexandra joined IHG as the Director of Sales and Marketing at the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile in 2019 where she played a pivotal role in escalating the hotel to new heights. Her leadership was instrumental in the hotel’s transformation, blending its rich history with modern luxury to create exceptional experiences. Before joining our team, Alexandra held significant roles in the hospitality industry, including Director of Sales at Loews Hollywood and leadership positions at the Ambassador Hotel Chicago and Hollywood Roosevelt. Her extensive experience in sales, marketing, and operations has consistently delivered impressive results and she will be an important partner to IHG as she continues to push the west region to excellence.

Jerry Murphy has over 25 years of experience in the hospitality and event management industry and currently serves as a Senior Portfolio Director on Smithbucklin’s Event Services team. In this role, he leads a team responsible for the strategy, development, and execution of client organizations’ meetings, events, and tradeshows. Prior to joining Smithbucklin, Jerry was Vice President of Customer Experience at Creative Group, Inc., where he led teams delivering meetings and incentive programs globally. He also held senior leadership roles at Maritz, overseeing Global Sourcing, Strategic Meeting Management, Registration, and Event Execution. Jerry holds a Certificate in Supervisory Management from the Irish Management Institute and a Business Skills Certificate from Cornell University.

Bill Reed is Chief Event Strategy Officer for the American Society of Hematology, the world’s largest professional society concerned with the causes and treatments of blood disorders. In this role, Bill oversees the Society’s global meetings strategy, portfolio of events, and operations of ASH’s conference center. ASH’s annual meeting and exhibition is attended by over 30,000 professionals from 110+ countries, and 300 exhibiting companies. The ASH annual meeting is one of the largest and fastest growing medical/healthcare events in the world, and is an event known for successfully delivering innovations to its audience while honoring traditions simultaneously.

Bill is a Past Chair for the Professional Convention Management Association, having served as its Chairman of the Board of Directors in 2016, and served the organization as a Trustee for the PCMA Education Foundation board for multiple years. Bill’s leadership with PCMA’s boards has spanned a decade from 2010-2020. Bill also was President of the PCMA’s Capital Chapter in 2008. Bill previously served a three-year term on the American Society of Association Executives’ Board of Directors, and has been recognized as an ASAE Fellow, which is an honorary recognition bestowed upon less than 1% of the ASAE membership. He is an enthusiastic industry speaker and has received numerous industry awards, including the PCMA Lifetime Achievement Award – Business Event Strategist (2023), the Foundation for International Meetings’ “Industry Executive of the Year” and Trade Show Executive’s “Rock Star Award.”

Moderator:

Tammy Moore, CMP, CMM, is Vice President of Learning & Professional Development for PCMA. In this role she guides the professional development and educational course offerings across PCMA and the PCMA Institute. She has been a leader in the events industry for 20+ years as an in-house corporate event professional, from her start as a meeting planner with CEB (now Gartner) to leading a 20+ team of meeting and event professionals with KPMG LLP. Prior to the events industry, Tammy worked in higher education as a student affairs professional with the University of Maryland College Park. As a result, she has a depth of experience driving complex projects and strategic initiatives, developing relationships with stakeholders and vendors, and developing talent.

Tammy joined the Event Leadership Institute in January 2021 as a freelance consultant executing projects and initiatives, developing strategic partnerships, and building the business development function. She was elevated to Chief Strategy & Growth Officer in 2022, prior to ELI’s acquisition by PCMA in January 2023. She is an engaging and talented facilitator, instructor, and speaker. She hosts and moderates panel discussions for monthly webinars, speaks and facilitates workshops on change management, resilience, transitioning from the tactical into the strategic, and team leadership.

Adept at managing remote teams, Tammy fosters collaboration and innovation. Her expertise extends to serving as a course instructor, sharing invaluable knowledge with aspiring event professionals. Recognized for strategic thinking, operational excellence, and driving organizational effectiveness, Tammy has spearheaded numerous key initiatives, earning the respect of C-suite executives.

Outside of work, Tammy is an avid home chef, enjoys hiking, and is a budding gardener. Her greatest joy comes from being a mom to her daughter, Olivia, and she can often be found watching her tennis matches. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, she now lives in Fairfax, Virginia, but calls a little remote town in Northern Michigan home (ask her about Petoskey hunting and sand dune climbing).

Event Tech Test Drive
2025-07-17 09:00 - 13:30 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
Discover tomorrow’s event marketing solutions today! Join our immersive demo day experience to witness how cutting-edge marketing solutions are revolutionizing event planning, engagement, and ROI measurement. Leading vendors will demonstrate their platforms alongside real-world client success stories, offering you valuable insights into:

Practical implementation strategies

Diverse use cases across event types

Measurable impact on event outcomes

Engage directly with industry experts during live Q&A sessions and connect with peers during networking breaks to share perspectives and best practices.

Whether you’re looking to streamline operations, boost attendee engagement, or enhance your event’s bottom line, the Event Tech Test Drive will equip you with the knowledge to make informed, strategic technology decisions.

Our July 17 Test Drive webinar is evolving into something bigger—a brand-new webinar series launching soon. While this session won’t take place as originally planned, we’re excited about what’s coming next. Stay tuned—you’ll be the first to know when fresh dates and discussions drop.

Using Data to Drive Event & Business Impact
2025-06-25 11:30 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | Zoom
Today’s stakeholders want proof, not promises. In this 60-minute webinar, an expert panel of corporate and association professionals will share how they transform raw metrics into high-level wins. We’ll demystify which data points really matter, like pipeline contribution, engagement depth, per-participant spend, and sentiment scores, and show how to link them to revenue, retention, and brand objectives. Learn practical techniques for setting data-backed targets, interpreting insights in real time, and pivoting mid-campaign. You’ll also hear proven change management tactics for packaging findings into concise data stories that earn C-suite confidence, budget, and action.

By the end of the webinar, participants will be able to:

Identify high-value quantitative and qualitative data points that align with business and event goals.

Map metrics to targets and set clear, attainable benchmarks.

Use live and post-event insights to improve participant experience, marketing spend, and revenue.

Build concise data stories for executives that spotlight return on investment, risks, and next steps.

Navigate change-management hurdles and secure buy-in across leadership and cross-functional teams.

REGISTER NOW

Meet the Speakers

PANELIST

Jessa Foor, CMEFounder and Senior Consultant, PerFOORm Marketing

Jessa Foor, CME, is equal parts strategic powerhouse and spirited adventurer. By day, she’s a seasoned and certified association marketing and communications executive with more than 15 years of experience leading high-performing, data-driven marcomm teams and strategies at professional organizations like the National Association of Federal Credit Unions (NAFCU), the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), and National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)—where she’s masterminded award-winning marketing and communications campaigns, launched new events, reimagined brands, and drove millions in revenue growth.

Her work has been recognized by GDUSA, Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP), and Telly Awards—but she’s most proud when her campaigns simply help people connect, grow, and lead.

PANELIST

Leslie Hasvold Senior Director of Corporate Events, Programs, and Customer Advocacy, Cloudflare

Leslie Hasvold has been in the Bay Area event industry for 25 years, and her career has spanned from small surgeon trainings to large scale technical user conferences. She has had the pleasure of working across the globe and in all elements of the event programming cycle. She is a member of the CEMA Advisory Board of Directors and has established herself as a leader in her organizations both literally and by virtue of her breadth of expertise.

PANELIST

Kevin Kirberg Director of Meetings, American Society of Anesthesiologists

Kevin Kirberg is a passionate association leader with more than 20 years’ experience in designing and implementing organization-wide events in the association and higher education industries. Kevin has served the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) for more than ten years, where he currently leads the organization’s Meetings and Events team in implementing more than 50 events annually, including the ASA annual meeting, ANESTHESIOLOGY, the world’s largest scientific anesthesiology meeting which attracts more than 12,000 clinicians, specialists, and healthcare leaders each year. Kevin also has experience overseeing medical association governance and advocacy meetings and has directed conference centers in both the association and higher education environments. Currently, Kevin serves on the Customer Advisory Boards for Visit Indy, SF Travel, Hyatt and Encore. He is active in a several professional associations including Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), Meeting Professionals International (MPI), International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) and the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE).

MODERATOR

Vinnu Deshetty

Vinnu Deshetty is your trusted expert in event data analytics, ROI strategies, and event technology. With nearly 30 years of experience and her background as a former founder of an event company, Vinnu is dedicated to making data more human, transforming numbers into meaningful insights that create extraordinary experiences. Whether she’s teaching Event Measurement & Analytics at the PCMA Institute or inspiring audiences at industry conferences, she empowers you to leverage data to achieve organizational success. Recognized as a BizBash Event Tech Innovator and a celebrated voice in the industry, Vinnu blends innovation with collaboration to deliver impactful results. As a member of the ASAE Professional Technology Advisory Council, she continues to advance tech-driven solutions, always with the goal of helping you exceed expectations and craft events that truly resonate.

Navigating the New CMP Landscape
2025-05-19 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Zoom
Are you gearing up for your CMP certification? Don’t miss this essential session unpacking the latest changes to the CMP exam and updates to our prep courses. Instructor Carolyn Browning will walk you through:

Key updates to the exam content and structure

Fresh strategies for effective study and preparation

New resources and tools to boost your chances of success

Insider tips on tackling the revamped exam format

Whether you’re a first-time test-taker or looking to recertify, this session will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to master your CMP journey!.

REGISTER NOW

Sustainable Events in Action: Practical Strategies for Impactful Planning
2025-05-09 12:30 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Zoom
Sustainability isn’t a trend—it’s a necessity. But how can event professionals integrate sustainable practices while balancing budgets, attendee experience, and stakeholder demands?

Join us for a dynamic, one-hour webinar where industry experts will share real-world strategies to design, implement, and measure sustainable events that make a lasting impact.

What You’ll Gain:

Sustainable Event Strategy – Discover practical ways to incorporate sustainability into your events without compromising quality, efficiency, or budget.

Proven Cost-Effective Solutions – Learn how to balance sustainability goals with financial and logistical realities.

Tools for Measuring Impact – Get access to a sustainability checklist and an impact measurement framework to track and report on your event’s environmental footprint.

Expert-Led Case Studies – Gain insights from real-world examples of successful sustainable events and their measurable outcomes.

Live Q&A with Industry Experts – Get your questions answered and receive guidance tailored to your specific event challenges.

In celebration of Earth Day (April 22), this webinar will equip you with the tools and strategies needed to design eco-friendly, high-impact events. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the movement toward smarter, more sustainable events.

REGISTER NOW

Meet the Speakers

HOST

Tammy Moore, CMP, CMM PCMA Event Leadership Institute | Senior Director, Product Innovation

Tammy Moore, CMP, CMM, is a leader in events and education with 22+ years of experience. As Senior Director of Product Innovation at PCMA Event Leadership Institute, she drives learning initiatives that empower professionals. She holds CMP and CMM certifications.

At KPMG US, Tammy led teams managing $100M+ in event spend and streamlining processes for 120 professionals. Her leadership fostered collaboration, achieving high retention and internal mobility rates.

Tammy teaches Advanced Event Design & Strategy for the Event Leadership Institute. Recognized for strategic vision, she has led initiatives like KPMG Lakehouse, a $450M innovation center, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and development.

PANELIST

Marley Finnegan Founder of PURPOSE Sustainability Strategy + PURPOSE Net Zero

Marley is the founder of Purpose Sustainability Strategy and Purpose Net Zero, simplifying event and travel emissions management. With 20+ years in large-scale events, she created the PURPOSE Accreditation to scale sustainable event strategy. A GRI Certified Sustainability Professional, she integrates climate knowledge with event planning. She also leads THE BLUEPRINT, a podcast fostering inner connection for environmental action. Inspired by meditation, her child, and the earth, Marley founded PURPOSE.

PANELIST

Tanya Popeau, Head of Global Sustainability, PCMA

Tanya is an internationally recognized expert in innovation and sustainability, with a track record of developing award-winning solutions for complex global challenges. She has worked with leading corporations, governments, and academic institutions, including Unilever, the United Nations, Mercedes-Benz, BP, BBC, and Arsenal FC.

A trusted leader, Tanya has overseen multi-million-pound projects, driving growth, sustainability goals, and social impact. With extensive experience across Asia, Africa, the US, and the UK, she combines strategic insight with effective stakeholder management and executive mentorship.

Currently based in London, Tanya is also a lecturer, consultant, and speaker on ESG, innovation, and sustainability.

PANELIST

Virginie De Visscher, Executive Director of Business Events, Destination Canada

Virginie is an experienced professional who has held various roles in business development, international trade, and project management. Virginie has worked with organizations such as Destination Canada, the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. Virginie holds a Masters of Science in Engineering in Agriculture and is a Certified International Trade Professional. Virginie has also worked in countries such as Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, managing operations and sales and marketing.

PANELIST

Bel Hanson, CMP, DES Director, Operations and Programs at ISCB

Bel Hanson is an event strategist who works for the International Society for Computational Biology (ISCB). She continually strives to improve programming, networking, and collaboration for attendees at each event while ensuring sustainability and legacy are priorities.

Bel has been a Certified Meeting Professional and Certified Digital Event Strategist since 2019. She is passionate about sustainability and the long-term impact events can have. Bel speaks regularly on legacy and sustainable practices in the events industry, including as a keynote speaker for a PCMA chapter events. She has also been a guest on The Road Ahead with Les Goldberg podcast and VisitScotland’s COP26 – and the Journey to Change series. She is the current President of the MPI Heartland Chapter and lives in Johnston, Iowa with her husband, three kids, and adorable dog.

PANELIST

Melissa Radu, Executive Director, Destination Stewardship

As Executive Director of Destination Stewardship, Melissa provides strategic leadership and visioning of our Tourism Master Plan, taking the 10-year strategy from paper to reality. This work is focused on destination growth and development with the goal of respecting, supporting, and improving the local and global environments.

Shattering the Glass Ceiling: Strategies for Women to Reach Senior Leadership Roles
2025-03-28 12:30 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Zoom
Are you ready to break through barriers and claim your seat at the leadership table? Despite women’s invaluable contributions to the events industry, the path to the C-suite remains challenging, with only 32% of women holding executive committee, director, and board positions.

Join us for an eye-opening hour that will arm you with the tools to reach new heights in your career:

Inspiring stories from trailblazing women who’ve navigated the path to senior positions

Practical strategies and guidance to overcome gender-based obstacles and advance your career

Connect with like-minded professionals determined to rewrite the leadership playbook

Our panel of accomplished leaders will share their hard-won wisdom, offering a roadmap to success that’s both practical and motivating. Join us in fostering a more diverse and inclusive leadership landscape in the events industry. Your participation could be the first step toward reshaping the future of executive representation.

REGISTER NOW

Meet the Speakers

HOST

Tammy Moore, CMP, CMM PCMA Event Leadership Institute | Senior Director, Product Innovation

Tammy Moore, CMP, CMM, is a leader in events and education with 22+ years of experience. As Senior Director of Product Innovation at PCMA Event Leadership Institute, she drives learning initiatives that empower professionals. She holds CMP and CMM certifications.

At KPMG US, Tammy led teams managing $100M+ in event spend and streamlining processes for 120 professionals. Her leadership fostered collaboration, achieving high retention and internal mobility rates.

Tammy teaches Advanced Event Design & Strategy for the Event Leadership Institute. Recognized for strategic vision, she has led initiatives like KPMG Lakehouse, a $450M innovation center, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and development.

MODERATOR

Sherron Washington, MA, Founder and CEO, The P3 Solution; PCMA ELI Instructor

Sherron Washington is a seasoned marketing and communication expert with over two decades of experience. As the founder and CEO of The P3 Solution, a Washington, DC-based marcomm firm, she specializes in simple, results-driven strategies and training. A sought-after speaker, author, and facilitator, Sherron blends strategy, learning theory, and technology to create impactful marketing solutions.

A natural connector, she excels at fostering authentic interactions that generate synergy and growth opportunities. Known for her energetic and engaging presence, she inspires audiences to embrace clear, effective communication that drives meaningful engagement and results.

PANELIST

Michelle Allgauer, CAE, CMM, CMP, Senior Vice President, Education and Engagement, Financial Services Institute, Inc. (FSI)

Michelle is a respected leader in education, engagement, and association management with 30+ years of experience in professional development, events, and strategy. As SVP of Education & Engagement at the Financial Services Institute (FSI), she leads meetings, educational programs, and marketing to equip financial professionals for success.

A champion for women in leadership, Michelle has thrived in male-dominated industries, transitioning from hotel management to senior association roles. She has served on destination advisory boards and the Events Industry Council’s CMP Governance Commission and holds a Bachelor of Science from Ithaca College.

Passionate about fostering inclusive leadership, Michelle empowers the next generation of women to lead and succeed.

PANELIST

Marni Puente, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, SAIC

Marni Puente drives SAIC’s marketing strategy across defense, space, civilian, and intelligence markets. With 25 years of experience at organizations like KPMG, Accenture, and Booz Allen Hamilton, she excels in shaping innovative, results-driven marketing programs. Marni is known for building high-performing teams, leading insights-driven innovation, and aligning marketing strategies with business goals.

She holds a Master’s in Communication Management from Towson University and a bachelor’s from Johns Hopkins. Passionate about inclusion, Marni advocates for women and individuals with disabilities, has served as a National Delegate for Vision 2020, and held leadership roles in diversity-focused groups. She sits on the boards of Autism Speaks and the Cape Henlopen Education Foundation. Outside of work, she enjoys Rehoboth Beach with her two sons and dog, Molly.

PANELIST

Robin Preston, CEM, DES Managing Director, Events, The American Institute of Architects (AIA); 2025 PCMA Board Member

Robin Preston is a highly accomplished events industry professional, known for her passion, energy, and ability to deliver exceptional results. With a proven track record of leadership, she has successfully managed teams of 25+ employees, overseen multi-million-dollar budgets, and developed effective event strategies. Her expertise in event production is evident in her successful delivery of more than 450 events, ranging from intimate gatherings to conferences with 18,000+ attendees, all marked by her through attention to detail and strategic planning.

Over nearly three decades, Robin has made significant contributions to the industry by serving on various Boards of Directors, participating in customer advisory boards for DMOs and CVBs, speaking at numerous professional events, and mentoring individuals who have gone on to successful careers. Her dynamic leadership style and unwavering commitment to excellence continues to drive her success in the business events industry.

PANELIST

Dionne Bishop, CSEP, Founder and CEO, Events by Dionne, Inc.

Dionne Bishop is an award-winning event planner, recognized with the 2023 Smart Women in Meetings Award and the 2022 MPI Toronto Planner Member of the Year accolades. With over 20 years of experience in the event and marketing industries, Dionne founded Events by Dionne Inc. She has planned corporate and social events across major markets in Canada and the United States, collaborating with esteemed organizations such as Road To Racing Canada, Canadian Independent Music Association, The Maven Collaborative, Lifelong Crush and Everest Funeral Concierge.

Dionne’s commitment to the industry extends beyond her role as an Event Strategist by serving as the Secretary of the Board for the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO). Additionally, Dionne has held leadership positions, including President and Gala Chair of the International Live Events Association (ILEA) Toronto Chapter. She has been actively involved in Destination Toronto and the Black in Events Network. Her dedication to excellence and industry advancement continues to significantly impact the Canadian events landscape.

Driving Social Change Through Business Events
2025-02-27 12:30 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Zoom
Harness the power of business events as a catalyst for social change! Join us for an eye-opening webinar that will revolutionize the way you approach event planning by unveiling:

How to craft events that not only meet business objectives but also drive meaningful social impact

Practical ways to transform fundraisers, conferences, product launches, and community initiatives into platforms for positive change

Methods for measuring and communicating the social impact of events to stakeholders.

Our expert speakers will share:

Real-world case studies of successful socially impactful events

Insider tips for amplifying your brand’s purpose through thoughtful event design

Actionable strategies you can implement immediately

Business leaders, event strategists, and CSR professionals: Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how your organization can become a force for good while achieving its business goals. You’ll walk away with a toolkit of fresh ideas to create events that resonate with your audience and leave a lasting impact on your community.

REGISTER NOW

Meet the Speakers

HOST & MODERATOR

Tammy Moore, CMP, CMM, PCMA Event Leadership Institute | Senior Director, Product Innovation

Tammy Moore, CMP, CMM, is a leader in events and education with 22+ years of experience. As Senior Director of Product Innovation at PCMA Event Leadership Institute, she drives learning initiatives that empower professionals. She holds CMP and CMM certifications.

At KPMG US, Tammy led teams managing $100M+ in event spend and streamlining processes for 120 professionals. Her leadership fostered collaboration, achieving high retention and internal mobility rates.

Tammy teaches Advanced Event Design & Strategy for the Event Leadership Institute. Recognized for strategic vision, she has led initiatives like KPMG Lakehouse, a $450M innovation center, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and development.

Zoe Moore, Moore Consulting Agency LLC and PCMA Event Leadership Institute Instructor | Strategic EDI Consultant

Chiriga Moore, affectionately known as “Zoe,” is a Strategic Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Consultant for Moore Consulting Agency. An Army Veteran, her experience as an Equal Opportunity Representative as a Soldier led to becoming an advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in the hospitality, events and tourism industries. She is on a mission to hold leaders accountable to their expressed commitment to strengthening their awareness, comprehension and operationalizing EDI from insight to implementation.

Featured on the covers of November 2020 The Meeting Professional magazine for “Sparking” change in her role as the co-chair of the MPI Global DEI Advisory committee, Zoe has also graced the October 2021 NorthStar Meetings Group, Meetings & Conventions magazine cover as one of 15 Event Professionals Making an Impact. Additionally, she has been recognized at the MPI 50th anniversary, 50 Up and Comers to Watch, A 2018 & 2020 Industry Trendsetter by Meetings Today, MPI Georgia 2023 Phoenix Award as Planner Member of the Year nominee for her involvement with the twice awarded MPI Georgia Community Inclusion Committee and work to advocate for Supplier Diversity across the chapter, organization and industry as a whole. Also in 2023 she was awarded the Global Social Impact award by Events Industry Council as a result of being nominated by the CEO’s of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP), Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and Professionals Convention & Meetings Association (PCMA

Rhanee Palma, CDME, Rhanee Palma and Company | Operations and Events Manager, University of California at Davis Air Quality Research Center and Founder & CEO

Rhanee Palma oversees Operations and Events at the UC Davis Air Quality Research Center and Founder/CEO of Rhanee Palma & Co. With over a decade of award-winning experience, she made history as the first Filipina American to hold a C-Suite role at Visit Oakland. An expert in curating impactful events, Palma has managed everything from global video game tournaments to academic conferences that empower communities to influence air quality policies.

Renowned for championing sustainable meetings, she specializes in event strategy, destination sales, and delivering high-impact, budget-conscious solutions. As a master connector, she excels in fostering collaboration and driving meaningful change across industries. Palma’s work emphasizes equity, innovation, and environmental stewardship, making her a sought-after leader in events that create global impact.

Natalie Thompson Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Board of Directors, Capital Pride Alliance

Natalie Thompson joined the Capital Pride Alliance Board in 2018. She currently serves as the VP of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and is the Chair of the DEI committee, responsible for organizing the #StillWe Lead program, and assists with programming for the Pride Talks series. Natalie also serves on InterPride’s Board as a VP of Global Outreach and Partnership. In 2020, through her work with InterPride, Natalie served as Co-Chair for the Global Pride 2020 initiative.

Professionally, Natalie is the Director of Programs for the SF LGBT Center, addressing the needs of the community to increase access to housing, employment, mental health services, nutritional resources, etc. Through her work and volunteerism, Natalie is dedicated to building community sufficiency, reducing barriers, and celebrating our diversity.

Cheryl Hughes, Owner, Cheryl Hughes Consulting, LLC

As an executive leader and consultant, Cheryl Hughes transforms innovative ideas into impactful initiatives, programs, and large-scale events. Her expertise spans civic engagement, democracy initiatives, youth development, urban renewal, science education, and organizational change. A skilled change agent, Cheryl fosters collaboration among diverse stakeholders by identifying shared interests and shaping strategic goals.

She has a proven track record of delivering on-time, on-budget projects that exceed expectations. Her initiatives, including On the Table and Gallery 37 (now After School Matters), have been successfully replicated in cities across North America, Europe, and Australia. A long-time Chicago resident she is now based in Berkeley, CA, In her free time she is an avid hiker and flea market enthusiast.

Designing Events That Drive Impact
2025-02-21 12:30 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Online
Join us on Friday February 21 for From Basics to Breakthroughs, a LinkedIn Live series presented by Encore and the PCMA Event Leadership Institute. In just 30 minutes, each session delivers actionable strategies and tactics from industry experts to help emerging and mid-career event professionals create impactful, immersive, and cost-effective events.

In this session, learn to maximize your attendees’ engagement and increase your organization’s ROI/ROE with easy, moderate and advanced strategy tips from an event design expert. Learner outcomes include a framework for thinking about effective meeting design and insights into maximizing the effectiveness of every event, every time.

RegistER NOW

Meet the Speakers

Amanda Armstrong

Amanda Armstrong has been recognized among the top five Women of Influence by Meetings Net Magazine and as one of the 50 Most Influential Meeting Professionals by MPI. As Senior Vice President of Communications and Industry Relations at Encore, she oversees strategic communication efforts and enhances the company’s industry presence.

Active in the events industry, Armstrong serves on the Event Industry Council’s APEX Critical Response Task Force and the Event Leaders 100 think tank. She previously chaired MPI’s International Board and held advisory roles with Hyatt Hotels and the St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission.

Before Encore, Armstrong led global meetings and travel at Enterprise Holdings for 14 years. A University of Colorado graduate, she holds CMP, CTE, and CED certifications. Outside work, she enjoys outdoor adventures, traveling, and sailing with her husband, Jon. Her industry roots trace back to calling shows alongside AV professionals at the tech table.

Tammy Moore

MODERATORTammy Moore, CMP, CMM, is a leader in events and education with 22+ years of experience. As Senior Director of Product Innovation at PCMA, she drives learning initiatives that empower professionals. She holds CMP and CMM certifications.

At KPMG US, Tammy led teams managing $100M+ in event spend and streamlining processes for 120 professionals. Her leadership fostered collaboration, achieving high retention and internal mobility rates.

Tammy teaches Advanced Event Design & Strategy for the Event Leadership Institute. Recognized for strategic vision, she has led initiatives like KPMG Lakehouse, a $450M innovation center, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and development.

Venue:

Beyond the Buzzwords: Building Engaging Event Experiences
2025-02-14 12:30 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Online
Join us on Friday February 14 for From Basics to Breakthroughs, a LinkedIn Live series presented by Encore and the PCMA Event Leadership Institute. In just 30 minutes, each session delivers actionable strategies and tactics from industry experts to help emerging and mid-career event professionals create impactful, immersive, and cost-effective events.

In this session, discover how “immersive” has become an industry buzzword that is no longer reserved for just high-end consumer brand activations. Learn how everyday event technology – particularly for audio and visual—can increase your attendees’ immersion in the content and increase the impact of your content.

RegistER NOW

Meet the Speakers

Chris Baron

Christopher Baron brings over 30 years of experience in live events, technical theatrical production, and IT systems. Having started his career working in theater, he later gained a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Technical Theatre Production from Toronto Metropolitan University. His passion for IT and technology, coupled with his experience in theatre and live events, cultivated his deep understanding of event technology. Joining Encore in 2007, he is currently serving as Senior Director of Innovation where he leads an innovative team of digital production experts.

Tammy Moore

MODERATORTammy Moore, CMP, CMM, is a leader in events and education with 22+ years of experience. As Senior Director of Product Innovation at PCMA, she drives learning initiatives that empower professionals. She holds CMP and CMM certifications.

At KPMG US, Tammy led teams managing $100M+ in event spend and streamlining processes for 120 professionals. Her leadership fostered collaboration, achieving high retention and internal mobility rates.

Tammy teaches Advanced Event Design & Strategy for the Event Leadership Institute. Recognized for strategic vision, she has led initiatives like KPMG Lakehouse, a $450M innovation center, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and development.

Venue:

Event Tech That Delivers Results Without Breaking the Bank
2025-01-31 12:30 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Online
Join us every Friday from January 24 to February 21 for From Basics to Breakthroughs, a LinkedIn Live series presented by Encore and the PCMA Event Leadership Institute. In just 30 minutes, each session delivers actionable strategies and tactics from industry experts to help emerging and mid-career event professionals create impactful, immersive, and cost-effective events.

In this session, listen to “real talk” about what event technology will drive your event effectiveness without driving up your budget. Learn about new (or often forgotten) event technology to increase the “wow” factor for your meetings and events.

RegistER NOW

Meet the Speakers

Juan “Chuck” Perez

With over 19 years of experience in the events and audiovisual industry, Juan “Chuck” Perez has established himself as a highly respected leader within Encore (formerly PSAV). Chuck’s journey with the company began as a technician, where he honed his expertise in AV technology and event support. His dedication, technical skills, and commitment to delivering exceptional service led him to progressively take on greater responsibilities.

Today, as the Senior Director of Sales at one of Encore’s largest serviced venues, Chuck oversees all sales operations, working closely with clients and teams to ensure successful, seamless events. His ability to blend deep industry knowledge with a client-focused approach has made him a valuable asset to both his clients and the Encore team. Throughout his career, Chuck has been instrumental in driving growth, cultivating strong client relationships, and ensuring the highest standards of service at one of the most high-profile locations within the Encore portfolio.

Chuck’s passion for technology, combined with his extensive experience in event solutions, has made him a leading figure in the audiovisual services sector, committed to helping clients create memorable experiences.

Tammy Moore

MODERATORTammy Moore, CMP, CMM, is a leader in events and education with 22+ years of experience. As Senior Director of Product Innovation at PCMA, she drives learning initiatives that empower professionals. She holds CMP and CMM certifications.

At KPMG US, Tammy led teams managing $100M+ in event spend and streamlining processes for 120 professionals. Her leadership fostered collaboration, achieving high retention and internal mobility rates.

Tammy teaches Advanced Event Design & Strategy for the Event Leadership Institute. Recognized for strategic vision, she has led initiatives like KPMG Lakehouse, a $450M innovation center, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and development.

Venue:

State of the Industry: 2025 Business Event Trends and Forecasts
2025-01-30 12:30 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Zoom
Dive into the future of event planning as we explore what’s on the horizon for 2025. From the buzz around micro-events to the green revolution in event practices, discover how shifting consumer expectations are redefining the event experience game. We’ll also unpack how AI continues to shake things up in event management. Don’t miss this chance to access game-changing insights that’ll help you align with your participants’ values, dial up the personalization factor, and streamline your operations. Walk away with a toolbox full of strategies to keep you ahead of the curve!

Learning Outcomes

Understand Consumer-Driven Trends: Explore how consumer behaviors, such as the preference for personalized, sustainable, and intimate experiences, are reshaping event formats and participant expectations.

Leverage AI and Technology: Discover the expanding applications of AI in event planning, including matchmaking, participant engagement, and operational optimization, while recognizing the unique value humans bring to the process.

Adapt to Economic Pressures: Learn strategies to navigate budget constraints, inflation, and staffing challenges while maintaining high-quality participant experiences.

Triple Bottom-Line Impact: Discover how to nurture and support sustainability best practices. We’ll explore practical ways to make a real difference for people, the environment, and your bottom line—no matter where you are on your green journey.

REGISTER NOW

Meet the Speakers

HOST & MODERATOR

Tammy Moore, CMP, CMM | PCMA Event Leadership Institute, Senior Director

Tammy Moore, CMP, CMM, is a leader in events and education with 22+ years of experience. As Senior Director of Product Innovation at PCMA, she drives learning initiatives that empower professionals. She holds CMP and CMM certifications.

At KPMG US, Tammy led teams managing $100M+ in event spend and streamlining processes for 120 professionals. Her leadership fostered collaboration, achieving high retention and internal mobility rates.

Tammy teaches Advanced Event Design & Strategy for the Event Leadership Institute. Recognized for strategic vision, she has led initiatives like KPMG Lakehouse, a $450M innovation center, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and development.

Dr. Aurora Benton, Founder and Chief Change Agent, Astrapto LLC

Dr. Aurora Dawn Benton is Founder and Chief Change Agent of Astrapto LLC, which exists to advance positive impact in hospitality, events, and travel. Her passion is to make sustainability practical and approachable for people whose main job is not sustainability, but who have a passion to improve social and environmental performance in their operations and supply chains. Aurora loves helping people realize their potential while discovering a greater purpose for good in business. She has helped over 130 young professionals launch green teams and perform sustainable procurement audits. Her clients include World Wildlife Fund, Sodexo Live, Baltimore Convention Center, Green Seal, the Events Industry Council, Accor, Hilton, and Direct Travel. She has been a thought leader and volunteer in hospitality industry organizations, including a task force for Sustainable Events Standards and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Aurora has a Doctorate in Business Administration in Social Impact Management.

Caitlin Fox | Vice President and Marketing Strategist, mdg, A Freeman Company

Caitlin Fox holds the position of vice president and marketing strategist at mdg, a top-tier marketing and public relations agency, specializing in audience acquisition. With her team, she crafts effective solutions that boost event attendance and exhibitor participation for leading events in various categories. Armed with two Master of Business Administration degrees in Marketing and International Business, she frequently shares her expertise at industry events and has played a crucial role in driving and managing the agency’s ongoing success.

Michelle Russell | Editor in Chief, PCMA

Michelle Russell has been the editor in chief of PCMA Convene since 2003, where she continues to lead a team of talented editors and writers to produce award-winning content across various platforms, with the goal of sharing knowledge with — and inspiring — the global business events professional community.

Veemal Gungadin | Founder and CEO of Gevme

Veemal Gungadin is the founder & CEO of Gevme, a modern omnichannel event platform headquartered in Singapore. He graduated from the National University of Singapore in 2003 with a Bachelor in Computing.

At Gevme, Veemal leads product vision and strategy, powering thousands of organizations and hundreds of thousands of events annually.

His innovations include Spark, an AI event concierge boosting event professionals’ productivity.

Veemal serves on the Board of Directors at PCMA and as VP of Digital & Innovation at SACEOS, driving digital transformation for Singapore’s events industry.

Behind the Scenes: Production Secrets Every Planner Should Know
2025-01-24 12:30 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Online
Join us every Friday from January 24 to February 21 for From Basics to Breakthroughs, a LinkedIn Live series presented by Encore and the PCMA Event Leadership Institute. In just 30 minutes, each session delivers actionable strategies and tactics from industry experts to help emerging and mid-career event professionals create impactful, immersive, and cost-effective events.

This session is a great start for those new to working with a production team for general sessions as well as pros looking for insider tips, tricks and a refresher on “production-speak.”

Register Now

Meet the Speakers

Johanna Walsh

As the Vice President of Event Production, Johanna brings 20 years of experience leading complex events from Davos to Dreamforce. Passionate about production, she ensures her team has the tools to make the process of planning your event as flawless as the end result.

Johanna is an experienced leader of cross functional event teams with an entrepreneurial spirit and proven ability to drive multi-year, fast-paced programs from start to finish. She specializes in strategic planning, flawless execution, and developing solutions for complex operational challenges. She resides in Cincinnati, Ohio with her mini–schnauzer Romeo and recently received her MBA from Georgetown University.

Tammy Moore

MODERATORTammy Moore, CMP, CMM, is a leader in events and education with 22+ years of experience. As Senior Director of Product Innovation at PCMA, she drives learning initiatives that empower professionals. She holds CMP and CMM certifications.

At KPMG US, Tammy led teams managing $100M+ in event spend and streamlining processes for 120 professionals. Her leadership fostered collaboration, achieving high retention and internal mobility rates.

Tammy teaches Advanced Event Design & Strategy for the Event Leadership Institute. Recognized for strategic vision, she has led initiatives like KPMG Lakehouse, a $450M innovation center, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and development.

Venue:
