Exclusively for CMPs!

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The title speaks for itself. The 2013 CMP Conclave, recently held in Spokane, Washington, still resonates in my mind. Who knew! Many attendees had no idea what was in store for them upon their arrival but the Spokane community welcomed us with open arms and made each of us feel like VIPs while visiting. A sincere thank you to the Visit Spokane team and the Spokane community.

Attendees that I interacted with at Conclave commented on how pleased they were with the quality of educational sessions and speakers this year. I left the Conclave with great enthusiasm about what I learned and how I plan to continue making full use of my certification.

Each year the Conclave content gets better and better. Networking with, and learning from, fellow CMPs is an added bonus each time we come together. Don’t just take my word for it ... here are comments from a couple of our fellow CMPs who attended this year’s Conclave:

"CMP Conclave was a great experience. From the painless and quick registration process to working with peers on identifying and developing new questions for advancing the CMP Exam, the total meeting experience was exceptional. The goal to earn continuing education credits was accomplished; however, the meeting value was heightened by creating new approaches in my role as a meeting director and can come back and apply this directly to my work. It was an exceptional event and the Spokane representatives made us feel sincerely welcomed and a part of their culture. The Conclave encounter left me feeling validated and proud to be part of the CIC CMP Community."

I believe Peg’s and Shelia’s comments are evident that we had another successful Conclave. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for next year. A special thanks to those CMPs who facilitate structured study groups that prepare candidates for the examination ... candidates who go on to obtain their CMP and are then able to attend an event "Exclusively for CMPs." I’m happy to be part of the CMP community.

As I begin my new role as chair of the CMP Board of Directors, I am looking forward to working with a team of experts who are committed and dedicated to serving on your behalf. We’re hard at work ensuring that the Certified Meeting Professional continues to remain a strong and valuable part of the dynamic and rapidly evolving meetings industry. .  

My management and leadership experience stems from working with the federal government for more than 40 years, including 24 years in planning/executing conferences on behalf of the Department of Defense. I have also been a member of the Society of Government Meeting Professionals since 1993.

As chair for the next 18 months, my primary goal is to continue the great work and forward thinking about the future of the CMP Program that my predecessors accomplished during their tenures. In addition to continuing the projects outlined in the board’s strategic framework, my focus will also include increasing the visibility of the CMP board inside the organizations that board members represent, creating stronger collaboration and resource sharing, and ensuring that the board participation offers a high return on investment. Now, more than ever, we need the support and involvement of the CMP community to accomplish the work at hand.

I welcome your thoughts as we work together to strengthen the value of the CMP Program. 

Sincerely,
Melody Kebe, CMP, CGMP
Chair, CMP Board of Directors
Society of Government Meeting Professionals Immediate Past President