In just about a month’s time the meetings industry will come together to celebrate a tradition that for the past 30 years has honored its most iconic individuals: The Convention Industry Council’s Hall of Leaders Gala. For the first time, the gala will be held in conjunction with IMEX America, on Sunday, October 13, atMandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. And for the first time some young professionals whose stars are just beginning to rise will be honored as well.
With a nod toward its host city, the event promises to be “more than a typical awards show,” said Karen Kotowski, CAE, CMP, and CEO of the CIC. The MGM Resorts Events team is planning an exciting night, filled with jaw-dropping sets, elaborate transitions, show-stopping performances, and a few surprises along the way to make each honoree feel right at home, she added.
Partnering with MGM was an obvious choice, said Kotowski, as the chain “continues to be on the forefront of sustainable hotel practices and exemplifies the spirit of innovation behind the awards.”
This year’s Hall of Leaders inductees are recognized for excellence, achievement, and inspiration, but above all as forward-thinkers who have made a difference, shaped the industry into what it is today, and acted as catalysts for the future, according to Kotowski.
The following five individuals will join the 106 already inducted into the HOL:
• Jorge Castex
Honorary President, COCAL and Senior Advisor MCI Argentina
Nominated by International Association of Professional Congress Organisers
• Eduardo Chaillo, CMP, CMM
Global Meetings and Tourism Specialists
Nominated by International Congress and Convention Association
• Peggy Daidakis
Executive Director, Baltimore Convention Center
Nominated by the Baltimore Convention Center Staff
• Liz Erikson
Executive Director, Meetings & Incentives, Fairmont Raffles Swissôtel
Nominated by Professional Convention Management Association
• Stephen Powell
Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales, Intercontinental Hotels Group
Nominated by Meeting Professionals International
As a part of the Hall of Leaders Gala, the CIC will also be presenting two Pacesetters Awards in the Young Professionals category to two “real-time” leaders—those who are making a difference now and for years to come, according to Kotowski.
CIC will be presenting the Pacesetters Awards to Robyn Mietkiewicz, CMP, CMM, director, accounts & global meeting management services, Meeting Sites Resources, Irvine, Calif.; and Meghan Schilt, CMP, events manager, Apax Partners, New York.
“It is extremely significant that the 2013 CIC Hall of Leaders is taking place alongside the third edition of IMEX America this October,” said IMEX Group Chairman Ray Bloom. “The Hall of Leaders is the most prestigious high point in our industry calendar.”
Mike Dominguez, senior vice president, corporate hotel sales, for MGM Resorts, agreed. “MGM Resorts International has always accepted its responsibility to be a good leader in the meeting and events industry. Serving as host to the Hall of Leaders Gala is an honor that we hold dear, and we look forward to an incredible night of reflection with unexpected moments to delight. It is important to stop and celebrate the industry and legacy as we continue our journey,” he said.
For more information on all of the award winners and for ticket prices, go to www.conventionindustry.org/hallofleaders.
