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Membership Is Building Community — And There’s Still Time to Get Involved!
The MPI New Jersey Chapter Membership Committee has been busy creating opportunities to connect, welcome new and returning members, and build a stronger community across our chapter. From networking meet ups and conversations around the issues shaping our industry to new experiences designed for our members, there is still plenty happening in 2026—and we’re excited for what’s ahead!
A Memorable Member Meet Up at Ocean: Just two days before our most recent Member Meet Up, Ocean Casino Resort was making headlines after a burst pipe temporarily suspended gaming operations at the property. Yet, by the time our MPI New Jersey and MPI Philadelphia members arrived, you would never have known that the resort had just experienced such an unexpected challenge.
The space was absolutely beautiful, the hospitality was exceptional, and the views of Atlantic City Beach provided the perfect backdrop for an evening of connecting with fellow meeting and event professionals. From delicious food and beverages to incredible service, the team at Ocean made sure our members felt welcomed from the moment they arrived.
A huge thank you to Ralph Arzayus and his incredible team—Calena Hunton, Kate Cowan, Sarah Feldman, Sarah Whilden, Tara Borden, Frankie Caloiero, and Allison Felicetti—for your hospitality, professionalism, and attention to detail. You helped create a memorable experience for our members, and we are incredibly grateful!
We also want to extend a special thank you to the MPI Philadelphia Chapter for being such a wonderful partner and co-promoter of this event. Bringing our two chapters together creates even more opportunities for our members to expand their networks, share ideas, and build relationships across the region.
Membership Monday: Meaningful Conversations
We also recently hosted our second Membership Monday, giving members another opportunity to come together and have an important conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing our industry.
This month's discussion focused on “How Economic Pressures Are Reshaping Meetings and Events.” The conversation gave members the chance to share perspectives, discuss how economic conditions are affecting their organizations and events, and learn from one another.
These conversations are exactly what membership is about: creating a community where industry professionals can connect, learn, and support one another.
There’s Still Time to Connect in 2026!
If you haven't made it out to an MPI New Jersey event yet this year, there is still plenty of time to get involved! We have an exciting lineup of opportunities coming up:
· Education Safari at Kalahari -September 17
· CMM/CMP Power Hour -September 22
· Next Wave's Meet Up at Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel - September 24
· Final Member Meet Up of the Year at Grounds for Sculpture - October 22
Whether you're looking for education, networking, professional development, or simply an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, we hope you'll join us at an upcoming event.
Join the Membership Team in 2027!
As we look toward 2027, we are also excited to announce an opportunity for someone new to join the MPI New Jersey Chapter Board as our next Director of Membership.
The Membership Committee is made up of passionate industry professionals who are committed to growing MPI New Jersey's membership, connecting with new and past members, creating meaningful meet-ups, and building a strong and welcoming chapter community.
This is an opportunity to make a real impact—but you won't be doing it alone.
As the VP of Membership in 2027, I will be working hand in hand with the Director of Membership to support the committee, develop new ideas, strengthen our member experience, and help make the MPI New Jersey Chapter as successful as it can be.
If you're someone who loves bringing people together, building relationships, creating experiences, and helping others find value in MPI, I encourage you to consider applying for this position. Learn more about the Director of Membership opportunity.
Membership is more than a number. It's a community.
Every meet-up, conversation, educational opportunity, and new connection helps make MPI New Jersey stronger. We’re excited to continue building that community throughout the rest of 2026—and into an even bigger and better 2027.
We hope to see you at an upcoming event and, perhaps, welcome you to the Membership Committee!
Chris Rafferty - Director of Membership
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