Happy November... I look forward to this month every year.  As I reflect on Thanksgiving with family, turkey, and a crackling fire; this month brings to the forefront the thoughts of being thankful, which can get lost in our day-to-day lives.  November reminds me of our veterans, what they have done and continue to do for each and every one of us. I’m thankful for loved ones, friends and so many soldiers who stand on a wall and say, “Nothing’s going to hurt you tonight, not on my watch.”  Thank you!

If you missed TEC18 in San Antonio, you missed one incredible experience! This year’s TEC18 marked the highest-attended annual conference to date. We had a third of our membership in attendance with 20 first-time planner members, over 50 non-members, 60% planners and 40% suppliers. It was also exciting to see 30 new members join us at the conference in their first year of membership. There is no doubt we are growing with the 15% increase in memberships acquired over the past six months.

There are so many people to thank who made TEC18 an exceptional experience for all.  Our TEC18 partners supported the chapter and education on so many levels, and we appreciate each and everyone of you!  Kudos to the University of Houston students and faculty who volunteered as the TEC18 Social Media Team. You all knocked it out of the park! Lastly, thank you to our TEC committee members and volunteers who gave their time and talents to move the chapter forward. We value your commitment! Be sure to keep an eye out for TEC19 details coming soon, as you will not want to miss the program next year.

As with TEC, our focus is to create unique opportunities for members and prospective members.  In December, we will host our first-ever industry-wide holiday party for mingling, jingling and celebrating the season. Industry organizations HSMAI, IAEE, MPI Texas Hill Country, SITE TX and SPIN have come together to create an evening where meeting professionals can connect.  Join us for NO speeches, NO programs but LOTS of fun. Register for Jingle & Mingle today to celebrate the year together.

Are you looking for an opportunity to bring your volunteer engagement to the next level? How about applying for the MPI Texas Hill Country Board of Directors?  The call for nominations is well underway, and applications are coming in.  Learn more about becoming a MPI Texas Hill Country board member and ways in which you can continue to grow both professionally and within your chapter.

As the busy holiday season begins, my hope is that you are inspired to be part of something bigger than yourself, have opportunities to spend quality time with the ones you love and laugh ‘til it hurts with friends and colleagues.

CREATE…Connections, Opportunities and Inspiration

Donna Musselman, CMP
President, MPI Texas Hill Country Chapter