The Convention Industry Council’s Hall of Leaders ceremony will be held in conjunction with IMEX America in Las Vegas next year through a partnership with the IMEX Group and MGM Resorts International. The gala evening will take place on Sunday, October 13, two nights before the opening of IMEX's trade show on October 15.
The prestigious gala, which honors pioneers in the meetings industry, has been held every two years since its inception in 1985, traditionally at an annual meeting of one of its member associations. However, CIC announced in October, during its first Pacesetter Awards event at IMEX America, that the Hall of Leaders would be held annually beginning in 2013, along with the Pacesetter ceremony, which recognizes emerging leaders.
Karen Kotowski, CAE, CMP, CIC’s chief executive officer, said a decision to hold the Hall of Leaders event annually in conjunction with IMEX America has not yet been made.
Ray Bloom, chairman of the IMEX Group, said, “This is an enormously prestigious occasion, which is close to our hearts, and we are looking forward to working with CIC and MGM to deliver an exceptional event. An important element of IMEX America is the co-location of a number of association-led events, enabling the industry to maximize their time and investment and enjoy a very busy week of business, education, and networking,” said Bloom. “The Hall of Leaders adds tremendously to this opportunity.”
“Because of our commitment and support of excellence, we are delighted to host the honoring of the distinguished colleagues who improve our industry, making it stronger and better,” added Mike Dominguez, senior vice president of sales for MGM Resorts International.
“The addition of the Pacesetter Awards, which recognize young professionals as well as individuals for contributions to the industry in a variety of areas, including innovation, community service, sustainability, and CSR, allows us to honor achievement in real time and recognize the people whose recent accomplishments chart a course for where the industry is now and where it will be in the future,” Kotowski explained.
To date, 106 individuals have been inducted into the Hall of Leaders and five professionals were recognized at the inaugural Pacesetter Awards. CIC is accepting nominations for the 2013 Hall of Leaders and Pacesetter Awards. The deadline to nominate individuals is February 1, 2013. For more information, visit the CIC Web site.