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Learn. Connect. Continue the Conversation
Hi MPI New Jersey!
We are excited to welcome Victoria Matey for a program that is equal parts insightful, creative, and science-based!
Her presentation, Design with the Mind in Mind: Achieving an Evergreen Impact with Behavioral Event Design, explores how behavioral science can help us design events that truly connect people, help keep them engaged, and leave a lasting impression.
I had the opportunity to attend Victoria’s interactive session, Planning with INTENTION, at FICP, and it was very impactful. She blends science with creativity—making it practical, relatable, and playfully fun! She shows how understanding human behavior helps us design meetings that aren’t just well‑run, but meaningful and intentional.
I’ve been applying these lessons in my own work. By uncovering stakeholder objectives and aligning program design with attendee motivations and behaviors, planning becomes a collaborative and creative experience together.
It became more than just the motions of the logistics but more about making thoughtful decisions around room setup, décor, vibe, food and beverage, and the activities participants engage in. It becomes a fun exercise in getting to know your audience through strong partnerships with your host.
What’s the outcome? More authentic experiences where participants feel genuinely valued, and when people feel valued and seen, they engage more deeply.
This MPI New Jersey Chapter program is a fantastic opportunity to learn, engage, and network with fellow event professionals in our community. And the venue offers a stunning view of our phenomenal NYC skyline, you can’t miss!
There’s science, creativity, and playful fun all rolled into one! Looking forward to learning more from Victoria—and hope to see you there!
Celestina Sierra, CMP - Director of Education
| | THANK YOU TO OUR CHAPTER STRATEGIC PARTNER | | |
NEXT WAVE'S RISE & GRIND COFFEE CHAT
Join the MPI New Jersey Chapter's Next Wave for a casual and energizing Rise & Grind Coffee Chat with your fellow event professionals!
End the week, start the weekend, and dive into a lively conversation about the next generation of events. Connect with peers, share insights, and get inspired for what’s to come in our industry.
The MPI New Jersey Chapter will bring the coffee, (gift cards will be provided to all who attend), and you bring the conversation!
Don’t miss this opportunity to network, learn, and kick off your Friday with great company.
DATE: Friday, May 15, 2026
TIME: 9:00 am - 10:00 am
LOCATION: Virtual
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WHAT IS THE NEXT WAVE?
The Next Wave is where the next generation of event professionals come to connect, grow, and shape what’s ahead. An MPI New Jersey Chapter small group, designed for those under 40 or with five years or less in the industry, this group is all about fresh ideas, real conversations, and building meaningful relationships with peers who are navigating the same exciting stage of their careers.
Keep up with Next Wave events, initiatives, and news by signing up to receive their emails. Click here to join the database!
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MAY EDUCATION PROGRAM:
This isn’t just another education program; it’s an experience.
Join us for an engaging in-person session with speaker, Victoria Matey, that explores how psychology and behavior shape unforgettable events.
Then, keep the momentum going by staying for a networking reception sponsored by Discover Lehigh Valley. Connect face-to-face with 10 standout suppliers from across the Lehigh Valley in one evening, making it easy (and efficient) to build meaningful relationships, spark new ideas, and expand your network.
Learn, test ideas in real time, and connect with peers who are just as passionate about creating impactful experiences as you are.
DATE: Monday, May 18, 2026
TIME: 2:30 pm - 7:30 pm
LOCATION: Hyatt Regency Jersey City
2 Exchange Place
Jersey City, NJ 07302
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The MPI New Jersey Chapter CMP/CMM Power Hour brings the energy and connection of our annual CMP/CMM Recognition Event into a more intimate, ongoing forum. This virtual gathering is designed exclusively for CMP and CMM designees to connect and engage in meaningful conversation around the topics that matter most.
Join a trusted community of like-minded event professionals to share ideas, exchange advice, and offer support in a non-sales, safe environment. This is your space to strengthen relationships, build community, and grow together.
DATE: Thursday, May 28, 2026
TIME: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
LOCATION: Virtual
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WEC 2026:
There is no bigger celebration of the people and purpose of the business event industry than MPI’s World Education Congress. Through a strategy of intentional event design, personalized learning, and the festive hospitality of San Antonio, WEC will deliver what you need to skyrocket your event career.
Because of what you learn and who you meet at WEC, your events will come alive like never before.
DATE: June 2-4, 2026
LOCATION: San Antonio
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28TH ANNUAL GOLF EVENT
This year, we’re teeing off again at: Stanton Ridge Golf and Country Club on Tuesday, June 23rd.
Spaces for all activities are filling up fast, so don’t wait to sign up regardless of how you plan to participate!
Sponsorship
Take a look at the sponsorship guide with all the exciting options and pricing for this year’s event and pick your favorites. Make sure to claim your spot right away!
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Golf Foursomes
Your foursome will get to enjoy not only a challenging and beautiful course but also plenty of opportunities to network, unwind, and have fun!
Paddles & Platters Foursome
Not everyone wants to hit the greens – and we totally get that! That’s why we’re excited to offer our Paddles & Platters experience, which offers a 90-minute pickleball instruction with play and a 90-minute charcuterie making class.
Whether you’re a pickleball pro or just looking for a fun way to spend the day, this activity is perfect for you and your guests.
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Planners
Join us for a fun-filled day of golf, pickleball, charcuterie making, dining, and networking with over 30 suppliers — ALL FOR FREE.
Whether you’re an avid golfer or new to the game, you’ll be paired with a team of hosts for a great experience. If golf isn’t your thing, no problem—paddles & platters is a perfect alternative.
This is your chance to connect with fellow meeting planners, build relationships, meet with suppliers, and discover new opportunities, all in one exciting day!
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Donate a Raffle Item
The raffle prizes have always been a big part of the MPI New Jersey Chapter Annual Golf Event, and it is a great opportunity to showcase your business.
It is also a way to be part of the event even if you are unable to attend in person.
If you are interested in donating a raffle prize from your company to be given away at the reception, click the button below to submit.
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We are excited to share that the MPI New Jersey Chapter's Next Wave is being featured in a panel discussion as part of the prevue meetings + incentives event!
Date: May 13, 2026
Location: Harrah's Atlantic City Resort
| | THANK YOU TO OUR CHAPTER STRATEGIC PARTNER | | |
CALL TO VOLUNTEER: GET INVOLVED WITH YOUR CHAPTER!
HELP WANTED ON THE MARKETING COMMITTEE:
Do you have an interest in coordinating social media posts for the chapter?
Our Marketing Communications Committee is looking for assistance with drafting copy (AI assistance welcome!) and scheduling posts in Constant Contact. Training provided. Our social media outreach keeps our membership and local meetings professionals informed of chapter news and events. This wouldn’t be possible without our wonderful volunteers!
Volunteer Commitment:
- Bi-weekly virtual committee meetings lasting 30-60 minutes
- Approximately one to two hours per week to perform duties assigned
Volunteer Responsibilities:
- Attend and actively participate in bi-weekly meetings (at least three times per quarter), providing new ideas and insights to further the committee’s goals.
Interested? Chapter members can sign up using the online volunteer form below. We can’t do this without you!
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LET'S CELEBRATE
We are excited to announce that the 2026 Volunteer of the Quarter has been awarded to Michael Brockett.
Michael has proudly served on our Education Committee and played a key role in planning and organizing the logistics of our recent MEETS Conference, as well as other programs we have produced this past year.
Michael has been an incredible asset to our chapter’s success, and we are truly grateful for the time, energy, and talent he so generously gives.
MPI is powered by dedicated volunteers, and we couldn’t accomplish all that we do without the commitment and passion of each and every one of them.
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NEW MEMBERS
Welcome to our newest MPI New Jersey Chapter Members. We are excited that you have joined our community!
- Erica Butler
- Amanda Durham - Mc-2
- Tommy Hilcken
- Paige Laurence
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MEMBER MILESTONES
Congratulations to our chapter members celebrating anniversaries with MPI this month:
37 Years
- Cornelius Larkin, CMP, CMM, CAE, CEM, DES - New Jersey Association for Justice Inc.
29 Years
24 Years
14 Years
- Tina Smith, CMP, CHME - MGM Resorts International
9 Years
8 Years
- Cynthia Flanagan - Janssen Pharmaceuticals
6 Years
- Janine Meluso, CMP - Allentown, LLC
3 Years
2 Years
- Kristin Finley, CMP - Verisk Analytics, Inc.
- Deborah Keeffe
- Michelle Jessup - New Jersey Association for Justice Inc.
- Claudia Rudkins, CMP - The Diplomat Beach Resort
1 Year
- Davis Donohoo - Visit Huntington Beach
- Cynthia McQuaid, CMP - Chauncey Hotel and Conference Center
- Barbara Matteucci - New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Jack Marrron - Tallen Technology Rentals
- Gary Urbanski -Tallen Technology Rentals
| | THANK YOU TO OUR CHAPTER STRATEGIC PARTNER | | ONSITE ONLINE BLOG: FEATURED ARTICLE | |
From Vision to Impact: Why CMP and CMM Designations Matter More Than Ever
Article by: Janet Murphy Stott
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SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES -
NOW AVAILABLE
Want your company to shine in front of top meeting professionals?
The MPI New Jersey Chapter invites you to explore our 2026 sponsorship opportunities—strategically designed to elevate your brand.
Whether you're looking to build brand awareness, showcase your services, or connect directly with decision-makers, our new and exclusive sponsorship packages are tailored to amplify your impact.
We’re currently seeking sponsors for two of our chapter's signature events.
28th Annual Golf Event
Annual CMP/CMM Recognition Event
Secure your sponsorship today and position your brand for a year of powerful connections and elevated exposure.
| | MPI is all about building connections, and with so many ways to engage online, it's easier than ever to stay in the loop! Join the conversation and connect with MPI New Jersey on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for all the latest Chapter news and updates. We can’t wait to connect with you! | | THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS | | |
Official technology partners of MPI New Jersey
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