Board Spotlight

Want to get to know your board of directors a little better?

Meet Vice President of DEI Kara Ferguson!

1.  How long have you been with MPI-CAC?

I have been a member of MPI and with MPI-CAC since September 2010.

2.  What committees, if any, were you on before joining the board?

Prior to joining the board, I was on the Holiday Party Committee, Annual Awards Recognition Committee and Membership.

3.  What is your role on the board? As the VP of DEI?

My role is to serve as direct support to the newly established Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee as well as drive the mission and vison of DEI within the chapter and meetings community.

4.  Why was this position created? What is the significance of this committee to MPI? 

DEI is ultimately a collaborative effort. It is wonderful to have so many be a champion for change and believe in the need for DEI, but DEI is very complex and needs attention. Therefore, this position was created to ensure we have a specific focus on creating strategies, reviewing policies, inspecting procedures and much more. The significance of this committee to MPI is that this committee will aid in establishing a supportive and welcoming environment for all, but especially those in the meetings community. As a committee, we will work toward specific goals, be a resource and maintain accountability.

5.  What is one goal for MPI-CAC you have in your position this year?

One goal I have for the year is to collaborate with various chapter leaders to identify and implement DEI initiatives, which will hopefully strengthen our chapter’s commitment to DEI and create a way to track and report those actions/progress.

6.       What do you like to do when you’re not working?

When I am not working I like to spend time with my family and friends, run, read and travel.