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“As event professionals, we know bringing people together can spark ideas, strengthen communities, and open doors. Through LGBT MPA, we have the opportunity to bring that same intentionality to our own industry: building meaningful connections, sharing knowledge, and ensuring LGBTQ+ voices help shape its future. I am excited to be working alongside this phenomenal community to turn our shared commitment for inclusion into experiences and opportunities that make a lasting difference. Together, we can help shape an events industry where LGBTQ+ professionals are supported, represented, and empowered to influence what comes next.” stated Trey Weaver, CMP, HMCC (he/him), LGBT MPA 2027 Chair.
The nominating committee was chaired by 2026 LGBT MPA Immediate Past Chair Gary Murakami, GTP, GLP, CMP-Fellow, CMM, DES, and included Eddie Canaday, CHSP, CHME, EJ Corporan, Charlene Liu, M.S., CMP, DCMP, Kyle Jordan CAE, CEM-AP, CMP, DES, and Trudy Singh. The committee focused on several criteria to create a diverse slate from twelve qualified applicants.
Murakami stated “As LGBT Meeting Professionals Association continues to grow, it was critical that we build a board with the experience, perspectives and leadership needed to advance our strategic priorities and support the future of the association. The incoming directors complement the strengths of our continuing board, while bringing new perspectives and insights that reflect our meetings and events community. Together, this board will help expand our impact, strengthen our voice, and continue moving LGBT MPA forward.”
“I am excited by the momentum of LGBT MPA and to be the first chair-elect who identifies as non-binary. We are working hard to grow and serve our full audience, and I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of leading this.” shared LGBT MPA’s Chair-Elect, Beth Surmont, FASAE, CMP-Fellow, CAE (she/they).
LGBT MPA invites you to be a champion for the LGBTQIA2+ global events community–join us in creating a world where every events professional feels valued, empowered, and included. Visit https://www.thelgbtmpa.org to learn more, get involved, and make a lasting impact on our industry’s future! Together, we will build a global business events industry where all are accepted, equal, and belong.
About LGBT MPA
The LGBT Meeting Professionals Association (LGBT MPA), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is the leading voice for the LGBTQIA2+ global events community. Established in 2018 to advocate for inclusivity in the meetings and events industry, LGBT MPA is committed to connecting, empowering, and advancing the global events community through LGBTQ+ advocacy, education, research, idea exchange, and networking to create a global events community where all are accepted, equal, and belong.
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