MPI Opens Chapter in Upstate New York

By Staff -- Tradeshow Week, 5/31/2004

Meeting Professionals Intl. has founded a new chapter in New York, making it the third one in the state. MPI's international board of directors approved the formation of the Northeastern New York club at its Leadership 2004conference in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 29, bringing the total number of MPI chapters to 66.

Serving the upstate New York area, including Albany, Essex, Fulton, Saratoga and Schenectady, the group joins the Western New York and Greater New York chapters. "We wanted local education and meetings without having to drive," said Julie Ann Price, chair of the chapter's steering committee.

Some of the chapter's main concerns will include pressing the New York State Legislature to update the Albany Convention Center, as many local meeting planners have been forced to hold events outside of town at larger, more modern facilities in Buffalo and New York City. In addition, the chapter is working to increase its membership from 37 to between 75 and 100 within the year.

The chapter has planned six educational seminars on everything from lesser-known services of convention and visitors bureaus to how wine can enhance an event. Mentoring programs to help members study for CMP exams are in the works along with member surveys.