Diversity Task Force - Diversity Dispatch - March 2021

March 8th marked International Women’s Day. A holiday that is recognized across the globe. Every day, women are driving change and progress around the world. International Women’s Day is a chance for all of us to take stock and celebrate their accomplishments. This month, we are excited to share the impactful work of women in our industry:

Jessie States: Jessie States, CMP, CMM, is the Director of the MPI Academy for Meeting Professionals International, where she leads and advances MPI’s professional development strategy, developing and managing MPI’s portfolio of educational products delivered through all channels, including live and digital events, educational experiences, professional certificate programs and through educational partnerships.
Jessie received the 2018 Pacesetter Award from the Events Industry Council and in 2017, she earned a place on the list of 25 Most Influential People in Meetings and Events (Successful Meetings magazine) and the title Trendsetter (Meetings Today magazine).

Sheila Johnson has a lot of firsts. She is the first African-American woman to own or be a partner in three professional sports franchises and the first African-American woman reaching a net worth of at least one billion dollars. After co-founding BET, she turned to hospitality where she and her team have sought out unique properties to purchase, manage, and develop with the goal of having each luxury hotel and resort embrace the culture of the destination. Ms. Johnson is equally known outside the boardroom as a respected philanthropist. She is Global Ambassador for CARE where her, "Sheila’s I Am Powerful" Challenge raised over $8 million in 2007.