• FICP Unveils New Web Site Architecture

  FICP recently launched a re-engineered Web site that features improved navigation and upgraded content that will enhance access to news, education, and networking.

  The blueprint for the reengineered site was based on feedback gathered from the FICP community. In addition to an improved menu structure, the site features new, advanced search capabilities that utilize the power of Google's search engine, providing faster access to the documents, archived presentations, and event information most relevant to FICP planner members and hospitality partners.

  Launching the new Web site architecture is just the first phase in making it easier to find and use the wealth of content and educational information FICP has to offer. Shortly before this year's FICP Education Forum, to be held June 21-23, FICP will release two new member offerings: the Planner's Profile Exchange will provide a searchable database of planner profiles from past, present, and future meetings. The second offering, the Resource Library, will serve as a repository of documents, presentations, and other resources and will include relevant links.

  “The Web site update is part of our continuing commitment to enhance and expand its capabilities,” said Jan Hennessey, CMP, CMM, FICP vice president, communications. “The recent Web site re-release is only phase one. We promise to continue to improve the site, provide ways to make it easier for members and hospitality partners to connect with one another, and increase the value for the FICP community.”

• Registration for Education Forum is now Live

  Join FICP at “Changemakers: Moving Mountains,” the 2009 FICP Education Forum. Taking place June 21-23 at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colo., the event will offer targeted education sessions and networking opportunities for meeting planners and hospitality partners in the financial services and insurance industries.

  This year's program focuses on the economy's effect on the meetings industry and includes sessions such as Contracting in Today's Economy, Meeting Planning Under a Microscope, Making Cents of BEOs: Cost-Saving Developments, and SMMP Working Session. Colleen Rickenbacher, recognized as one of the “Top 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry,” will serve as the Master of Ceremonies.

  The conference will feature more than a dozen breakout sessions, including two keynote presentations: “Leading at the Edge of Change,” facilitated by Dr. Janet Lapp; and “Bridging the Culture Gap: How to Thrive — Not Just Survive — in the Global Marketplace,” presented by Mary Beth Lamb.

  Breakout sessions will be organized in tracks and will focus on three areas: personal development, professional development, and industry trends.

  Registration is now open. Visit www.ficpnet.com/educationforum for detailed event information on this career-enhancing event!

Members and Nonmembers: Renew or Join Today!

Members, please visit www.ficpnet.com to log on to your online profile and renew your FICP membership. ?

If you are not a member but would like to join FICP, please fill out an online application or contact FICP at membership@ficpnet.com. Start networking with your peers today!