Thank you to the PCMA Heartland Chapter!
Gratitude for the 2026 Convening Leaders Scholarship
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the PCMA Heartland Chapter for awarding me the 2026 PCMA Convening Leaders Scholarship. I was truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to attend the 70th Annual Convention in Philadelphia, PA. This scholarship allowed me to connect with industry leaders, expand my professional knowledge and contribute to the meetings and events community. Thank you for supporting my growth and for your commitment to advancing our industry.
The overarching theme of #CL26 was “Making History, Together.” That idea reflected both honoring the legacy of PCMA which turns 70 in 2026 and looking forward to shaping the future of the global business events industry. Philadelphia was a symbolic host city – it’s where PCMA held its very first conference in 1956 and the city is also celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. When we speak about leadership, we should all know that within the meetings and events industry, we will be around for a long time! The best quote from our Opening Speaker Adam Grant – “There’s only one thing that AI can’t replicate and that is the live experiences, so you will all be employed for a long time.”
There was three full days packed with Education, Networking and of course, fun! The District, now a part of Convening Leaders for several years and renames from the “Tech District”, was the central hub for connection and networking. Several cities hard a large booth with activations to learn more about their destination. It was a great space to connect, watch and gather ideas. The puppy park in the District was a huge hit and it was really hard not to come home with another dog! (I say that now while my 2 dogs are barking in the background!!) If you wanted to learn more about AI, how to use AI to reimagine your Events or design engagement with AI, there was a session for that.
The main stage speakers on Monday morning all spoke about Igniting Performance and Possibility, each with their own takeaways. As a business owner, wife and mother, Erin Strafford really hit home, taking about burnout and how this is very prevalent with the highest achievers. I think we all need to lose a few “socks” in the coming months. (IYKYK) “Commit to less to show up more.” On Tuesday morning Tabitha Brown delivered an inspiring message about leading by example. She told us all to “be intentional with your joy” and incorporate positivity into whatever is the thing that moves us to excitement. Otherwise, why do it?
Outside of the Philadelphia Convention Center there were plenty of opportunities to connect and I saw more than one badge go through the Reading Market (best cannoli ever!). While all the events were centrally located and walkable to the Center, the city toped off the end of #CL26 with a short bus ride to Xfinity Mobile Arena to enjoy the “Worldwide Wrap Party” with none other than Pitbull. A pre-party of great 80’s and 90’s music was played by Philadelphia native DJ Jazzy Jeff, which got the entire crowd engaged for the evening.
Congratulations to Philadelphia for an amazing 70th Anniversary for Convening Leaders. We all know that Convening Leader’s isn’t just another conference. It really is the kickoff for the business event community and I was delighted to be able to attend and represent the PCMA Heartland Chapter. Thank you once again for your confidence and support in me, this amazing chapter and the business events industry.
