Virtual Brunch with Actual Nerds – Episode 17

12/10/2020

Planner Panel – “Turning the Page”

As we close another chapter in the history books, there is no doubt that 2020 will be a year that we are not soon to forget. 2021 presents a new hope of returning to normal, and it brings the possibility of in-person meetings and events once again. On this edition of VBwAN, the Nerds will be joined by four of our favorite meeting planners to look back on 2020 and discuss what 2021 holds in store.

  • Hosting meetings safely
  • Incorporating a hybrid approach
  • Increasing sponsorship opportunities
  • Whatever else we feel like talking about

Panelists

Katie Bohrer, CMP

Katie’s career has been a 360-degree tour of the hospitality and events industry, from her work in event management for Gaylord Hotels, to selling for a third-party sourcing agency, to global sales for MGM Resorts Event Productions, operations for a creative agency, and finally settling at ALHI. The Plano, Texas, native brought that wealth of experience to ALHI when she joined the executive team in Dallas, Texas as the Vice President of Meeting Design and Experience. She is a Certified Meeting Professional and has been on the boards of both the MPI DFW and MPI Tennessee Chapters and is a member of the SITE TX Chapter.

Kelly Teneyuque Chaco, CMP

Kelly has been Eurofins’ Director of Events for nearly 4 years, which includes managing operations and strategy for the US Food Division and its numerous individual business units. Each year, Kelly and her team manage over 120 national, regional, and local trade shows, internal meetings, conferences, and customer-facing events. Kelly is a member of Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) serving on various committees, holding different positions, and receiving several awards.

Jessie States, CMP, CMM

Jessie is the Director of the MPI Academy for Meeting Professionals International, where she leads and advances MPI’s professional development strategy. Jessie received the 2018 Pacesetter Award from the Events Industry Council, an honor that recognizes emerging leaders and industry supporters. She has also appeared on the list of 25 Most Influential People in Meetings and Events (Successful Meetings magazine) and earned the title Trendsetter from Meetings Today magazine.

Mike Vidikan

Mike is the Executive Director of OrthoPreneurs, an organization that helps orthodontists run more profitable practices with lower stress. The organization encompasses a private membership group, an annual summit, and virtual and live education courses. When he’s not working, you can find him experimenting in the kitchen, playing with his 2 year old son, and volunteering in his community.