MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD

250th Anniversary in NJ, NY & Philadelphia Areas


As the United States prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary in 2026, the tri-state region of New Jersey, New York, and Philadelphia is emerging as a central stage for large-scale celebrations. This milestone presents a significant economic opportunity for professionals in the event planning, logistics, and transportation sectors.

 

A Surge in Demand for Event Professionals

The scale and scope of the semi-quincentennial events, ranging from parades and concerts, sporting events to historical reenactments and international gatherings, require a massive workforce of skilled planners and coordinators. Freelancers and small businesses are uniquely positioned to benefit from this demand.

 

Tips for finding jobs:

  • Monitor official websites: Keep an eye on the websites of organizations involved in the celebrations, such as America250 (which represents the US Semi-quincentennial Commission and America250.org, Inc.), Revolution NJ, and Homecoming 250, for announcements about job opportunities.


  • Check job boards: Regularly search major job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn for relevant positions.


  • Networking: Connect with professionals in the fields of hospitality, event planning, and tourism in the relevant areas.


  • Consider volunteering: Many organizations involved in the celebrations will likely be seeking volunteers, which can be a great way to gain experience and make connections that could lead to paid positions. 


The 250th anniversary of the United States is more than a celebration; it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity for professionals to contribute to history while growing their businesses.

 

Join the MPI NJ and MPI NY chapters at the iconic MetLife Stadium, future host of the FIFA World Cup 2026, for an exclusive program exploring the complexities and triumphs of planning large-scale events.

This dynamic session features a distinguished panel of global experts who have orchestrated some of the world’s most impressive events. Gain firsthand insights, elevate your planning skills, and network with top professionals in an inspiring setting.


Mastering Large-Scale Event Planning: Insights from Industry Leaders

September 16, 2025

2:30 PM – 6:30 PM

MetLife Stadium

MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ

 

See more info below, including a link to register.


Mike Hochman - VP of Membership

THANK YOU TO OUR CHAPTER

STRATEGIC PARTNERS

SPONSOR

We’re thrilled to be celebrating 40 incredible years as a chapter!


This anniversary is not only a time to reflect on how far we’ve come, but also to look ahead with excitement for what’s next. Thank you to all our members, past and present, who’ve helped shape our journey. Here’s to 40 years strong—and many more to come!

UPCOMING EVENTS

COLLABORATIVE SEPTEMBER EDUCATION PROGRAM


Get ready for an exhilarating workshop at the iconic MetLife Stadium! Dive into the world of large-scale events with our incredible lineup of industry trailblazers. Discover how to transform hospitality events into unforgettable experiences that not only dazzle guests but also drive business success.


Join us as these experts reveal their secrets for orchestrating complex events—from luxury conferences to breathtaking destination experiences. Learn about advanced logistics coordination, vendor management, and guest experience optimization strategies. Discover cutting-edge crisis management protocols tailored specifically for hospitality environments, along with innovative ideas for creating inclusive experiences that embrace diverse travelers and boost attendee satisfaction.


No matter your role in the meetings and events world, this session will arm you with practical insights to elevate your event management skills, strengthen brand loyalty, and deliver exceptional experiences that your attendees will remember forever!



Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to learn from the best in the business and take your event planning prowess to the next level.


Dates: Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Time: 2:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Location: MetLife Stadium

1 MetLife Stadium Drive

East Rutherford, NJ 07073

VIRTUAL SILENT AUCTION


Be Part of the Excitement – The MPI New Jersey Chapter's Virtual Silent Auction is Back!


Get ready to bid on incredible prizes while supporting a great cause! Our Virtual Silent Auction is one of the most exciting ways you can help fund the MPI New Jersey Chapter's mission to deliver education, networking, and resources to our community.


Auction Preview: November 10 – November 16

Live Bidding: November 18 – December 2


You’ll find amazing items up for grabs—think hotel stays, unique experiences, gift cards, tech gadgets, and so much more!

 

Help Us Make This Auction Extraordinary, and make a Donation!

We’re currently accepting donations of all kinds — gift cards, experiences, services, merchandise, and more. Your contribution will directly support the MPI New Jersey Chapter and give you exposure to our network of meeting and event professionals.


Why Donate?

✔ Support a nonprofit making a real impact in the industry

✔ Gain visibility for your business or brand

✔ Be part of an event that reaches hundreds of engaged participants

 

Ready to Donate an Item?

Click here to submit your donation today

SAVE THE DATES

Registration for these events will open soon!


9th Annual CMP/CMM Recognition Event

Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025

Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

Location: The Albion Summit Hotel

570 Springfield Ave

Summit, NJ 07901


December Education Program

Date: Tuesday, December 2, 2025

Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Location: Virtual


Membership Monday

Date: Monday, December 8, 2025

Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Location: Virtual


2026 Annual MEETS Conference

Date: Sunday, March 8, 2026 to Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Location: Caesars Atlantic City

2100 Pacific Ave

Atlantic City, NJ 08401


*October 2025 Education Program & Meet Up information will be released soon. Please stay tuned.

OTHER INDUSTRY EVENTS


the EVENT

Dates: September 7-9, 2025

Location: Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada

LEARN MORE HERE

SPONSOR

MEMBERSHIP NEWS

MEMBER FLASH SALE

Promotion ends Friday, August 29, 2025.

Click here to sign up today!

MEMBER MILESTONES

Congratulations to our chapter members celebrating anniversaries with MPI this month:


32 Years

Patricia Jones - Jm Creative Enterprises


31 Years

Michael Shannon, CMP, HMCC - Coraltree Hospitality


24 Years

Pamela Wynne CMP, CMM, HMCC


21 Years

Pamela Kenworthy, CMP - National Exchange Carrier Association


14 Years

Alyssa Lippincott - Venetian Las Vegas Gaming LLC.


12 Years

Jay Cloutier - Discover Albany


11 Years

Karin Davis - Venetian Las Vegas Gaming LLC.


10 Years

Melissa Clayton - Helsinn


7 Years

Heather Eick, CMP - AbbVie Inc


3 Years

Kathleen Diggins

June Leach-Barnaby - IEEE Computer Society


2 Years

Dana McDonald - Impact XM

Sherri Hoy - Crotonville Conference Center

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome to our newest MPI New Jersey Chapter Members. We are excited that you have joined our community!

  • Vinnie Cicerale - DiVinci Tours
  • Patrice Sanders - Medical Knowledge Group

Join Us for an Open House at the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center!


Date: Wednesday, October 1st 2025

Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center

178 Ryders Lane, New Brunswick, NJ 08901


Proudly rooted in Rutgers spirit, the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center has hosted meetings, conferences, and retreats for over 50 years. Nestled on 21 wooded acres yet minutes from downtown New Brunswick, it blends history and modern comfort, making it the perfect location for your next event.


About the Open House:

• Explore our charming and versatile meeting spaces

• Enjoy samples of our catering options

• Meet our Conference Services team


This event is free to attend. RSVP by September 24th to reserve your spot. 

SPONSOR

ONSITE ONLINE BLOG: FEATURED ARTICLE

How to Build a Personal Brand in the Events Industry


Article by: Janet Murphy Stott


Read Article

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 upcoming 2025 sponsorship opportunities—strategically designed to elevate your brand within the tri-state area’s vibrant meetings and events industry.


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 one of our most anticipated upcoming events:



Annual CMP/CMM Recognition Event

  • Align your brand with excellence and leadership and help us honor those who have earned their designations. This prestigious gathering brings together some of the top decision-makers in the region—a prime opportunity for sponsors to connect with influential leaders and demonstrate a strong commitment to professional achievement in the meetings industry.


Secure your sponsorship today and position your brand for a year of powerful connections and elevated exposure.


Budgeting for 2026? The 2026 sponsorship prospectus will be released on September 5th.


SOCIAL MEDIA CORNER

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!

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

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