I knew by my second year at Purdue University that I wanted to be a meeting planner. As a student in the Hospitality and Tourism Management program, I had access to student organizations and, therefore, mentors. My mentor had a connection with SmithBucklin and I started my career there immediately after graduation. I’ve been in the industry since then and don’t plan on leaving.
The highlight of my career has been all of the friends and support system that I have made throughout the industry. These relationships have helped me deal with issues that come up every day in meeting and event planning, and without their support, our events would not be successful.
I would still like to give back to the industry. I would love to coach or mentor. This industry is amazing, and I would just love to be able to share my passion for it.
The meeting and event industry has changed me for the better. I’ve learned to be flexible, adaptive and to think on my feet. I’ve also learned what the power of knowledge can do.
I love the people in this industry. I love all of the different people that we are able to interact with on a daily basis. Their heart and passion for this industry fuels my passion and makes me want to be the best partner and meeting planner I can be.
My first supervisor within the meeting industry has made the greatest impact on me. I still use a lot of her processes and templates when planning my events today. She had an incredible amount of experience within the industry and taught me everything I know. She also valued professional development and constantly pushed me to increase my knowledge of my role and the industry.
Fortunately, my employer in 2011 valued continued education and professional development. They pushed for me to get involved in MPI as soon as I started and to jump into education, volunteer roles and anything that would provide me with opportunities to learn, experience and grow. MPI has provided me with a network that has grown my career and my knowledge over the years.
My son is the most incredibly kind, funny and talented kid (of course, I’m biased). I just want to create a better world for him. A world filled with love and less hate. I want him to see the goodness in people and I want him to be the best version of himself.
