The Events Industry Council’s Hall of Leaders program was launched 1985 to recognize outstanding professionals in the meetings, conventions, exhibitions, hospitality, and travel industry. With five just-announced 2024 inductees, the program has now honored more than 150 people who have shaped the industry through their ideas and leadership.
The 2024 inductees are:
Cathy Breden, CMP Fellow, CAE, CEM, former executive vice president and COO, International Association of Exhibitions & Events
Greg O’Dell, president of venue management, Oak View Group
Julius Solaris, founder, Boldpush
Willam Reed, FASAE, CMP, chief event strategy officer, American Society of Hematology
Robin Lokerman, CMM, FASAE, group president, MCI Group
EIC President and CEO Amy Calvert commented on the Hall of Leaders, saying, “By honoring and celebrating those who have helped shape our industry, we demonstrate the global business-events industry’s unique capacity to foster human connection and collaboration, leaving a lasting economic and social impact on the communities we serve. We are grateful for the Hall of Leaders inductees’ many contributions and leadership—all have genuinely and humbly inspired industry professionals globally.”
Hall of Leaders honorees will be celebrated at an October 7 gala in Las Vegas. Also being recognized that night will be the five people who have earned EIC’s 2024 Pacesetter and Social Impact awards.
The Pacesetter Awards highlight the achievements of those shaping the future of the industry and inspiring others. This year’s recipients are:
• Paola Bowman, CMP, CMM, director of client services and events, Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Shameka Jennings, CMP, CAE, MTA, DES, principal and chief events officer, EventsNoire
• Sina Bünte, CMP, DES, TMEP, HVED, founder, DigitalMind.events
EIC’s Social Impact Award is given to individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to society through their events. This could include philanthropy, community engagement, DEI actions, or other initiatives with a positive effect on society. This year’s recipients are:
• Diane Hawkins, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, executive vice president-volunteer engagement, Meeting Professionals International
• Gary Murakami, CMP Fellow, GTP, GLP, CMM, DES, vice president, global sales & industry relations, Teneo Hospitality Group
