MPI elevating education in 2024

Paul Cook, MPI correspondent relates how MPI is gearing up for a big year ahead of energising education Educational content has long been at the heart of MPI, and its impact on members has been significant. By participating in, or delivering education, you cannot fail to increase your network and global connections. That is the beauty of education, it helps expand and enrich your community. As Michelle Allgauer, CAE, CMM, CMP Fellow, 2024 chair, MPI International Board of Directors, looks ahead to 2024, it is clear that, energising, evolving and enriching education are close to her heart.

Allgauer says: “As chair, my top priority is to showcase MPI as the leading education provider for our industry. Amidst constant challenges in our ever-changing world, we must continuously rethink our approach and remain adaptable. AI is reshaping the meeting industry, offering potential to enhance attendee experiences and streamline event management, and drive innovation. Simultaneously, AI is transforming meeting education, providing more personalised, efficient, and accessible learning experiences. This transformative trend demands increased attention and forward-thinking strategies in both sectors, reimagining event and education settings and optimising knowledge sharing and engagements.” There are plenty of opportunities for education and connecting to flourish in 2024. In March, the European Meetings and Events Conference took place in Luxembourg. Then a couple of months later, in May, the destination was Louisville, USA for the World Education Congress. And in addition, MPI is launching regional councils to support chapters and foster excellence across global regions. While the staff and MPI International Board of Directors play their part, so too does the MPI Foundation, which seeks to distribute funds for worthwhile causes, such as scholarships and community development. In fact, 2024 is the 40th anniversary of the Foundation, which has Susie Townsend at the helm being the chair of the MPI Foundation Global Board of Trustees. As well as celebrating success, the Foundation is focused on the future, as by 2027 it is targeting to achieve over $5m in its endowment. When that level of financial base is achieved, the interest alone sustains annual operations and funds going back to the community. Education and networking have certainly played a key part Townsend’s success. As she says: “I started my career at age 16 working in a local restaurant. I caught the hospitality bug early. I started working for Hyatt Hotels after college and then moved over to the Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association (now Visit Indy) working in Conventions and Events. The influence of MPI in my professional career impacted me greatly. It has helped me become involved in a global network of like-minded professionals. My involvement has helped me grow national and international connections as well as my learnings within this global community.” The best advice she received, she says, was to become a lifelong learner. And just look at her progress. There are always ways to learn and grow, whether it is through reading and investing in education or educational programmes. Education really is a gateway to success.