Scholarships & Awards

MPI Southern California is very proud to offer our members three outstanding Scholarship and Award opportunities, named in honor of three of our most dedicated members.  

Please follow the links below to learn more about these opportunities and applications for each.   

You Belong Diversity Scholarship Program

Purpose: 

• To create an inclusive membership that more accurately reflects our diverse Southern California community.
• To recognizes event industry professionals/students who seek to advance the cause of diversity through continuing education.
  

2024 Winner: Sherri Amador

The Arlene Sheff - Beverly Laing Student Scholarship Fund

Purpose: To mentor students studying to work in the meetings industry and to support students in their journey to become a meeting professional.

2024 Winners: Theresa Huber-Gonzalez and Warren Sutherland

Gary J. Rosenberg Scholarship

MPI Southern California has a long and rich history of educational excellence.  The Gary J. Rosenberg Scholarship is one way that MPISCC promotes education and opportunity to its members. 

2024 Winner: Amy Zelinsky

Lois K. Hauser Award

The Lois K. Hauser Service Award is presented annually during the MPISCC Installation Gala to a member of the chapter who has exhibited extraordinary commitment, dedication and service to the chapter in a volunteer role.

2024 Winner: Gail Emery

Chapter Awards and Criteria

Volunteer Impact Award - Chapter volunteers who are nominated throughout the year. Board members are not eligible for this award. This is a board nominated award.

2024 Winners: Gabe Romero and Patty Kindness

Emerging Leader of the Year - Awarded to a new member (with less than two years membership) who has made a significant contribution to the chapter during their short time as a member. Board members are not eligible for this award.

2024 Winner: Tricia Yamaguchi

Member of the Year - Awarded to a member (with more than two years membership) who has made significant contributions to the chapter, is active in the industry as a whole, and shows commitment to professional development. Board members are not eligible for this award.

2024 Winner: Khris Baizen

Chapter Leader of the Year - Awarded to a member of MPISCC who has influenced the chapter based on their ability to motivate others, stimulate volunteer action, provide a sense of direction and serves as a catalyst to produce exceptional results. Board members are eligible for this award.

2024 Winner: Margaret Launzel - Pennes

Past Presidents’ Award - Selected by the Council of Past Presidents for outstanding contributions to the Southern California meetings industry.

2024 Winner: Libby Zarrahy