MPI Speaker Maggie Cook Seeks Something Better
By Todd McElwee
Is there something better?
That’s a question that’s helped propel Dr. Maggie Cook throughout her life. Speaking at the Opening General Session of MPI’s WEC on June 2 in San Antonio, Cook advocated for producing an effective power declaration, being adaptative and resilient and turning adversity into opportunity.
Power declarations are designed to produce action, confidence and enthusiasm. Cook discussed the components to each one: I am, gratitude, this moment, adverb, action verb, be clear and specific, outcomes in numbers, establish a date, and or something better.
Cook’s favorite is: or something better. She said if God and the universe is open to something better then why shouldn’t we be as well?
Cook grew up among 68 other children in an orphanage in Mexico. As a child, she taught herself to play basketball and was selected to play on the Mexican National Team. However, she broke her collarbone and missed the opportunity. Eventually, she immigrated to America on a basketball scholarship at the University of Charleston in West Virginia. That scholarship came about while she was playing outdoor hoops near the campus and was spotted by the coach.
She said she would not
Rachel Andrews, Global Head of Meetings & Events, CVENT and MPI Board member, was presented the MPI Chair Award by Paul Van Deventer, President & CEO, MPI; and Rob Adams, CEO & Partner of Bishop-McCann, Immediate Past Chair, MPI, during the WEC in San Antonio on June 2.
Dr. Magie Cook, CEO and Founder, Maggie’s Salsa, speaks during the Opening General Session at San Antonio’s Henry B. González Convention Center on June 2.
Picture-Perfect Between-The-Sessions Experiences
Find innovation that inspires in The Palm Beaches with between-the-sessions experiences for mind, body, and soul. Curate your most successful meetings at ThePalmBeaches.com/meetings.
HOTS was fortunate enough to be a main stage commentator during MPI’s WEC. There was one main concern. No, it wasn’t speaking in front of thousands and no, it wasn’t how to sit while on stage. HOTS main concern was this: was there something on its mouth? Eating a chocolate granola bar before did not alleviate these worries. A look in a bathroom mirror
USAE
Publisher & Executive Editor 1982 – 2021 Anne Daly Heller
Publisher-Emeritus Ross E. Heller ross@usaenews.com
Publisher James Heller james@usaenews.com
Associate Publisher Todd McElwee todd@usaenews.com
Managing Editor Jonathan Trager jon@usaenews.com
Hotel Editor Jordan Bradley jordan@usaenews.com
Creative Director Diane Nichols dkn@usaenews.com
Marketing & Circulation Director Christy Pumphrey christy@usaenews.com
To
HOTS HOTS
ensured its face was clean. Donning a tan linen suit, HOTS, prone to a spill or two, avoided coffee as well.
This is the second time the NBA Finals has coincided with MPI’s WEC. The first was in Toronto in 2019 when
the hometown Raptors held their championship parade during MPI’s flagship event. HOTS went, and it was awesome. San Antonio has been buzzing all week with the Spurs taking on the New York Knicks. It’s very much a small town college feel, with Spurs
flags flying all over town and black and silver shirts and hats ubiquitous in every corner of the city. There’s lots of honking…lots and lots and lots. Just a terrific scene. HOTS is going after tickets.
Visit San Antonio’s Tyler Orwig: My San Antonio
By Tyler Orwig. Chief Sales Officer
Welcoming MPI’s WEC to his city, Orwig shared some personal favorites and local insights to help visitors make the most of their time in Alamo City.
When I need coffee, my first stop is Local Coffee at Pearl. It is easy, consistently good, and gives you a quick sense of how San Antonio blends historic character with modern energy. For me, a good coffee stop should feel connected to the place you are in, and Pearl does that well.
One place I always take a first-time visitor to San Antonio is the River Walk—but I always tell people to experience it beyond the postcard version. Walk it, take your time, and let it lead you into the layers of the city: the Alamo, the restaurants, the public art, the convention center district, and then north toward Pearl or south toward the Mission Reach. It is still one of the best front doors to San Antonio.
when you want to explore the neighborhoods. San Antonio rewards people who slow down a little. You can walk from a meeting to dinner, from the River Walk to a museum, or from a hotel to live music. Then, in 10 or 15 minutes, you can be in an entirely different part of the city with its own personality.
When you want a sense of San Antonio’s local history, visit the San Antonio Missions, especially Mission San José. The Alamo is essential, but the full story of San Antonio is bigger than one site. The Missions help you understand the Indigenous, Spanish Colonial, Tejano, faith, ranching and community roots that shaped this city long before it became a modern visitor destination.
I cannot resist dessert at Mi Tierra I usually tell myself I am just going for the atmosphere, but the bakery case has a way of ending that argument. A slice of tres leches there is classic San Antonio—colorful, familiar, a little over the top, and exactly right.
The most peaceful spot in San Antonio is the Japanese Tea Garden It is close to the center of the city, but once you are inside, it feels like everything slows down. The stonework, water, gardens and quiet pathways make it one of those places where you can take a breath and remember that San Antonio has a softer side, too.
San Antonio rewards people who slow down a little. You can walk from a meeting to dinner, from the River Walk to a museum, or from a hotel to live music.
The best way for a visitor to get around town is on foot when you are downtown and with rideshare
The Southtown and the King William area is often overlooked but worth visiting. Visitors know downtown and the River Walk, but a short walk or ride south opens up a different San Antonio—historic homes, local restaurants, galleries, neighborhood bars and a creative energy that feels very authentic to the city.
Ask a local where to get a breakfast taco. Everyone has an opinion, and
that is part of the fun. San Antonio is not a city where you need the fanciest answer; you need the right tortilla, the right salsa and someone local willing to point you to their spot.
Jazz, TX is home to some of the city’s best live music. Tucked into Pearl, Jazz, TX feels intimate and polished without losing its San Antonio soul. It is a great place to send visitors because it gives them a night out that is easy to access, high quality and still very local. The Carver is another gem, especially for people who want to experience a venue with deep cultural roots and incredible programming.
If I have 30 minutes for lunch, I head to Schilo’s. It is quick, it is historic, and it is right in the heart of downtown. Sometimes the best lunch is not complicated—a sandwich, a bowl of soup, good service and a place that has been part of San Antonio for generations.
Do not miss the Briscoe Western Art Museum. The Briscoe gives visitors a strong sense of the American West, but it also connects directly to San Antonio’s own identity—ranching, Tejano heritage, the river, and the way cultures have always crossed paths here. It is the kind of museum that helps people understand that our history is not one-dimensional.
America’s 250th is being celebrated at several places across San Antonio, and that is what makes it interesting. The Spanish Governor’s Palace is home to the Daughters of the American Revolution’s first America 250 Patriots Marker. The Mexican American Civil Rights Institute will open Somos Americanos: Our American Story in July 2026. American Indians in Texas at the Spanish Colonial Missions will present Sacred Trails & Silent Allies, highlighting Native vaqueros and Mission ranching communities. And the Briscoe Western Art Museum will open Tejanos Legacy - Another American Origin Story on July 24, 2026. Together, those experiences make an important point: San Antonio may not have been in one of the original thirteen colonies, but this city has a real and meaningful place in the American story.
USAE xchange
Conversation with Jim Russell, Global Head, Business Events Solutions, and Chairman, MPI International Board of Directors
During the run-up to the WEC, Russell connected with USAE to discuss volunteer leadership his new position at Maritz, professional balance and more.
USAE: Outside of the board meeting, describe your role as chair of MPI.
Russell: As Chair of MPI, my role is centered on governance, strategic leadership, and supporting the long-term health of the organization and its global membership. Outside of formal board meetings, I work closely with MPI staff and volunteer leaders to help ensure alignment between strategy and execution, provide perspective on key decisions, and support continuity as leadership transitions over time. I also serve as an ambassador for MPI—engaging with members,
partners, and industry stakeholders to reinforce MPI’s role as a trusted voice and convener for the meetings and events profession.
USAE: What are the primary objectives for the remainder of your term?
Russell: My primary objectives are to maintain strategic momentum, support strong governance, and ensure MPI is positioned well for the future. That includes reinforcing clarity around priorities, strengthening leadership succession, and supporting initiatives that deliver tangible value to members. I’m particularly focused on ensuring major programs and events— such as the World Education Conference—remain relevant, inclusive, and reflective of where the industry is headed, while also leaving the organi-
zation stronger than when my term began.
USAE: You recently joined Maritz. What attracted you to the company?
Russell: What attracted me to Maritz was its purpose - driven culture and its deep belief in the power of experiences to drive meaningful business and human outcomes. Maritz has a strong legacy in our industry but is also clearly focused on the future—investing in innovation, insights, and talent to help clients navigate change. The opportunity
to lead business event solutions at an organization that aligns so closely with my values and experience was a natural fit.
USAE: How do you balance your responsibilities with Maritz with your commitment to the MPI board?
Russell : The balance works because the roles are highly aligned. Both Maritz and MPI are focused on advancing leadership, strengthening the industry, and creating meaningful impact. I’m very intentional about time management and priorities, and I’m fortunate to have strong teams supporting me in both roles. Serving as Chair of MPI also brings valuable perspective and insight that enhances my work at Maritz, keeping me closely connected to member needs and emerging industry trends.
USAE: How will you unwind after the World Education Conference?
Russell : Honestly, we have an incredible leadership and event management team at MPI so the lift on my part is minimal. However, after WEC, I intend to take a short pause to recharge (the weekend) —spending time with family, getting some rest, and reflecting on what we have accomplished to better our amazing community. Events of this scale require an enormous amount of collaboration, so there’s real satisfaction in seeing it all come together successfully. Once I’ve had a chance to decompress and capture key takeaways, I’m energized to carry those insights forward in both my MPI and Maritz roles.
The Final Word
The Future of Our Industry Depends on What We Give Back
By Kevin Kirby, Executive Director, MPI Foundation
The meetings and events industry has always been about more than venues, schedules or packed convention centers. At its core, this industry is about people creating moments that move other people. It’s built on relationships, shared experiences and the belief that bringing people together still matters.
That kind of industry does not sustain itself by accident—it grows because people choose to invest in one another.
For decades, I’ve watched this community show up for each other in ways both big and small. Sometimes it looks like mentoring an emerging professional over coffee between sessions. Sometimes it’s making an introduction that opens an unexpected door. Sometimes it’s volunteering time, sharing expertise or supporting organizations that help create access for others.
Giving back in the meetings and events industry is more than a charitable act—it’s an investment in the future of a community built on connection, collaboration and shared progress.
And that future feels especially important right now.
Our industry is evolving quickly. Technology is reshaping experiences. Expectations around personalization, sustainability and measurable ROI continue to rise. Budgets are tighter. Teams are leaner. And a new generation is entering this profession looking not only for opportunity, but for purpose and belonging.
The question facing all of us is simple: What kind of industry do we
Maggie Cook
continued from page 1
be speaking here today if she’d never broken her collarbone.
Following graduation, Cook struggled to find a job and became homeless. A friend entered her in a Fresh Salsa competition for West Virginia. She won the contest unanimously and was gifted $800 to start her business: Maggie’s All-Natural Fresh Salsa’s & Dips. She later sold it with Garden Fresh to Campbell’s for $231 million.
The University of Charleston honored her with an honorary Doctorate of Laws degree.
Turning adversity into purpose was stressed. When facing adversity, we should recognize our assumptions and wonder if the opposite is true. Understanding what you control how adversity can be transformed into an advantage and also stressed.
want to build next?
I believe the answer starts with investing in people.
The MPI Foundation exists to help strengthen the future of our industry through education, scholarships, research and career development opportunities. But the true impact goes far beyond programs or funding lines. It’s about creating momentum for people who may just need one opportunity, one connection or one moment of belief to change the trajectory of their careers.
Everyone wants to support meaningful causes, and rightly so. But sometimes we overlook the importance of investing in the very community we belong to. The people, professionals and future leaders shaping our own industry every day.
This industry changes lives in ways that rarely show up on balance sheets.
A mentorship conversation in a hallway becomes a career pivot. A scholarship becomes someone’s first seat at the table. An introduction at a reception becomes a business partnership years later. These moments may seem small in real time, but collectively, they shape the future of our profession.
For those receiving support, the impact can be transformational. It creates confidence, expands networks and accelerates growth. But what’s equally important, and often overlooked, is what giving back does for the people who contribute.
The most respected leaders in this industry understand that success is not measured solely by individual achievement. It’s also measured by how we help elevate the community around us. Supporting others broadens perspective, strengthens relationships and reinforces the col-
In an environment built on human connection, generosity has a ripple effect.
When experienced professionals invest in emerging leaders, innovation accelerates. When organizations support education and research, the industry becomes more resilient. When we create pathways for new voices and fresh ideas, we build a stronger future for everyone.
And perhaps most importantly, giving back reconnects us to why many of us entered this profession in the first place.
This work has always been about creating experiences that bring people together. The MPI Foundation simply extends that mission beyond the event itself. It helps ensure the people behind those experiences continue to grow, thrive and lead.
As we gather at WEC in San Antonio,
we’ll be surrounded by some of the brightest, most creative minds in our profession. We’ll exchange ideas, challenge each other, build relationships and imagine what’s next. But WEC is also a reminder that none of us build this industry alone.
Most of us can point to someone who helped shape our path. A mentor, colleague, leader or peer who invested time, encouragement or opportunity when it mattered most. The responsibility now becomes how we continue that cycle for the people coming behind us.
The future of the meetings and events industry will not be defined only by technology, trends or business growth—it will be defined by how willing we are to invest in one another. That is how stronger communities are built. That is how industries evolve. And that is how we ensure the next generation inherits an industry worth believing in.
laborative spirit that has always made this industry unique.
MPI Houston Area Chapter’s barge makes its way past the Opening Reception of MPI’s WEC in San Antonio on June 2.
Scene at MPI/WEC
Sponsored Content
NEWS NEWS
Elevating Your Vision: Why Your Next Event Belongs in the Richmond Region
“A win is when a planner feels like their vision wasn’t just executed: It was elevated. That’s when we know we delivered something meaningful, not just memorable.” —Jason Whitt, National Destination Sales Manager, Visit Richmond, VA
When I’m not reviewing RFPs, building strategic proposals or walking a site with a client, you can usually find me jumping out of airplanes. Skydiving requires absolute precision, flawless preparation and, above all, trust. Honestly, planning a high-stakes, citywide event isn’t much different.
I’m Jason Whitt, National Destination Sales Manager for Visit Richmond, VA and I know planners take a leap of faith every time they choose a destination for their meetings. My job — and my passion — is making sure that when you take that leap with the Richmond Region, you have a partner who guarantees a smooth, spectacular landing.
Here is why the Richmond Region is transforming the meeting experience, and how my team and I show up for you every step of the way.
The Foundation: Built for Citywide Success
Before we talk about the incredible culture and energy of this region, let’s talk logistics. When we sit down with meeting planners we know that if the infrastructure isn’t there, nothing else matters. Fortunately, the Richmond Region brings three undeniable advantages to the table:
• Unbeatable East Coast Accessibility: We’re centrally located within a day’s drive of half the U.S. population. If your attendees are flying in, Richmond International Airport offers 160 daily flights with wonderfully efficient, stress-free TSA lines. We’re also served by three Amtrak stations, making short-haul travel a breeze.
• Built for Citywides: Whether you’re bringing 25 executives or 4,500+ attendees, we have the foot-
print to host you seamlessly. Our Greater Richmond Convention Center features 700,000 square feet of space, with more than 2,000 hotel rooms within a 1-mile radius and 22,000 across the region.
• Exceptional Off-theClock Experiences: A great meeting doesn’t end when the sessions do. With over 900 restaurants and more than 90 local attractions, your attendees will be engaged long after the workday is done.
Partners on Purpose: How I Show Up for You
At Visit Richmond, VA our guiding philosophy is that we’re “ Partners on Purpose.” But what does that actually mean?
To me, it means taking a client-first approach built on trust, respect and deep local roots. We view our role in your journey as the direct link between planners and our local hotel partners. We understand how to balance the priorities of both the planner and the property so that everyone walks away with a win. We don’t just want to execute your RFP; we want to elevate it.
From our very first conversation until your final attendee departs, my team and I are by your side. We facilitate your site visits, provide logistics support, supply marketing resources and remain a steady, thoughtful presence onsite to ensure your event runs flawlessly.
Partnership in Action: Solving the Unexpected
A destination’s true colors show when things don’t go according to plan. Recently, we worked with a large association group where the attendance absolutely skyrocketed after their original booking. Suddenly, we had an immediate, critical need for more
than 1,500 additional room nights. It was the kind of scenario that keeps planners awake at night.
Instead of hitting the panic button, we hit the phones. Leveraging my deep connections across our hotel community, we immediately identified available inventory and secured the accommodations needed to support the expanded footprint. We also coordinated the complex transportation logistics between the multiple new properties and venues. Because of our collaborative hospitality community, we mobilized quickly and turned a high-stress situation into a seamless success story.
3 Game-Changing Developments
There is an undeniable energy in the Richmond Region right now. As someone who loves to entertain, I am thrilled by the heavy investments being made in unique event spaces. Here are three new developments we love showing off on site visits:
1. CarMax Park and the Diamond District: The new home of the Richmond Flying Squirrels officially opened this year. This stadium brings premium hospitality spaces, concerts and flexible event venues that firmly position us as a premier sports and entertainment destination.
2. An Expanding Hotel Landscape: Our hotel inventory is booming with new properties and boutique experiences. Additions like Shenandoah Mansions in the Fan District, alongside expanding hubs near the Henrico Sports & Events Center, give planners brilliant new options for their attendees.
3. Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront: This stunning, newly completed riverfront concert venue is a crown
jewel for the region. Surrounded by mixed-use developments combining dining and entertainment, it offers dynamic new ways to design uniquely Richmond events.
A Look Ahead: My Advice for Planners
Here at Visit Richmond, VA, we prioritize long-term relationships over quick wins, so we’ll always give it to you straight: The Richmond Region is a strong year-round destination, but our spring and fall seasons book up incredibly fast due to our outdoor beauty and mild weather. If you want those dates, we should start talking well in advance.
However, I highly recommend looking at our shoulder seasons. Planners are finding incredible opportunities to take advantage of strong availability and exceptional value during these times without sacrificing an ounce of the attendee experience. As demand for our region continues to rise — especially for larger citywides — early planning is your best friend.
The Richmond Region Difference
When I’m not working, I love hiking and paddleboarding on the James River, which runs right through the heart of downtown. That river embodies what sets the Richmond Region apart: It’s a perfect balance of vibrant urban energy and relaxed, natural accessibility. Attendees immediately connect with our welcoming vibe and innovative culinary scene.
But at its core, the difference here is the people. When you book with Visit Richmond, VA, you get a team that is genuinely invested in your success.
Let’s connect, let’s collaborate and let’s elevate your next event. We are your Partners on Purpose.
As the sun sets, The Richmond region comes alive with illuminated landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and a dynamic urban core. For meeting attendees, the city offers an engaging experience that extends well beyond the convention center. Photo courtesy of Visit Richmond, VA.
Few destinations offer whitewater rapids, skyline views, and walkable meeting experiences in one place. The James River puts the Richmond region’s energy and sense of adventure just minutes from the convention district. Photo courtesy of Visit Richmond, VA.
Grand Rapids, Michigan is a city crafted for meetings, where exceptional infrastructure and award-winning personal service come together to create a one-of-a-kind experience for both planners and attendees.
Located halfway between Chicago and Detroit, Grand Rapids offers bigcity excitement – the metro area includes more than one million residents –along with Midwestern friendliness and affordability.
Getting Here is Easy
Downtown Grand Rapids is just 16 minutes from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), which Airports Council International (ACI) has repeatedly named the best airport of its size in North America. ACI has also recognized GRR as the easiest, cleanest and most enjoyable airport in North America.
GRR offers 100+ daily nonstop flights to 35+ markets on eight airlines: Allegiant, American Airlines, Avelo, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, Sun Country and United.
Grand Rapids is also within a day’s drive of half the U.S. population and is served by Amtrak, with train connections throughout the Midwest.
Downtown Convention Campus
The Grand Rapids meeting experience starts with downtown’s DeVos Place Convention Center – featuring a 162,000 sq. ft. exhibit hall, 40,000 sq. ft. ballroom and 26 breakout rooms –which can be customized to your event size and setup. The convention center is connected to three hotels (1,200+ rooms) via climate-controlled skywalk and is within an easy walk of 10 additional hotels with 1,300+ more rooms.
Hotel options include the historic Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton , and JW Marriott Grand Rapids , both AAA Four Diamond luxury hotels offering skywalk access to the convention center. Additional downtown hotel brands include AC by Marriott, Canopy by Hilton, Courtyard
Sponsored Content
Grand Rapids Is Crafted for Meetings
by Marriott, Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Hyatt Place and Residence Inn as well as two boutique hotels. There are 80+ additional hotels within a short drive of downtown, many offering top-notch meeting spaces close to specific attractions and amenities, including the Gerald R. Ford International Hotel.
Downtown hotels and DeVos Place Convention Center are within a 10-minute walk of 300+ dining, shopping, cultural and entertainment venues – many of which are ideal for hosting smaller breakaways from the main event. You can even host an outdoor event on a pedestrian bridge over downtown’s Grand River.
There are plenty of options for after-hours fun, too: museums, movies, live music, theatre, ballet, opera, spas, brewery tours, riverside trails, pro sports games, one of America’s must-visit food halls, world-class fishing, oodles of public art and yearround outdoor festivals – yes, even in winter – all just steps from the convention floor.
Award-Winning Service
When you meet in Grand Rapids, you’ll enjoy the services of Experience Grand Rapids, a 2024 Northstar Stella Awards Best Midwest DMO winner and 2024/2025 Platinum Award CVB. The Grand Response™ Convention Services team, which is dedicated to helping you make the most of the city’s extraordinary assets, is hailed for its attention and responsiveness to clients.
Whatever the size of your event, you’ll be assigned a Convention Services Manager to assist you every step of the way, from connecting you to local resources to ensuring your attendees have the very best experience, on and off the floor.
Beyond Downtown
Some of Michigan’s biggest tourist attractions are within a 5-15 minute
drive of downtown, including Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, one of the world’s most visited art museums, and John Ball Zoo, a classic urban animal sanctuary in the midst of an ambitious expansion plan that will add an African exhibit in 2028 and a year-round South American Forest experience soon after. Both offer unique meeting spaces surrounded by nature.
Also within a short drive of downtown: 35+ craft breweries, 30+ golf courses, hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, three shopping malls, an agritourism hub, summer paddling adventures and a winter ski resort.
More than 20 sugar-sand Lake Michigan beaches – basically an indoor ocean without sharks or saltwater –are 30-45 minutes away.
Getting Grander All the Time
Downtown Grand Rapids is the site of one of the country’s largest river revitalization efforts, making the city an even more vibrant meeting and recreation destination. Projects include:
•The new-in-2026 Acrisure Amphitheater, a 12,000+ seat outdoor performance venue on the banks of the Grand River.
•Expanded riverfront access and a
new outdoor classroom at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, now open.
•Amway Stadium, bringing MLS NEXT Pro soccer to Michigan in spring 2027.
• Grand River Greenway, an ongoing initiative to link downtown with 85 miles of riverside trails and 30+ parks across West Michigan.
•Grand River Restoration, an in-construction project to restore the city’s namesake rapids and enhance recreational opportunities.
Crafted to Impress
The #1 U.S. City on the Rise (LinkedIn, 2025). A Top 10 Best U.S. Town to Visit (CNN, 2024). Named the Best Right-Size City in America by Forbes Magazine and the #2 U.S Boomtown of the Future by SPINX Digital. Praised by Thrillist for offering “much of the art, food and music trappings you’d find in Chicago and Detroit, only at half the price and one-quarter the commute times.”
Grand Rapids is all of this and much more, making it an ideal setting for an unforgettable meeting. Visit ExperienceGR.com/Meetings for more information and submit your online RFP to start crafting a one-of-a-kind event.
Dowtown Grand Rapids Skyline - Credit (Nick Irwin for Experience GR)
Riverside Dining - Credit (Bryan Esler for Experience GR)
Gerald R. Ford International Airport - Credit (Peter McCullough for GRR)
