Smart Meetings | Page 40 of 603 | Corporate Event Planning: Business Events, Meetings, Conferences

Freeman’s Gen Z Report reveals how young professionals can balance digital and in-person interaction

Recently, Freeman released its 2025 Gen Z Report. The central lessons centered on how Gen Z views their relationship with technology and how they feel events impact their professional development.

The study offers extensive insight, stats, and information about how Gen Z attendees feel about technology and how planners can utilize these insights to provide better service to their attendees.

Mickey Wilson wearing turtle neck Smart Meetings chatted with Mickey Wilson, Freeman’s CMO, to discuss what their report means for planners looking to engage Gen Z within event spaces better.

Smart Meetings How can meeting planners design events that balance technology with in-person interactions to meet Gen Z’s needs?

Mickey Wilson The Freeman Gen Z Report reveals a critical insight: 91% of Gen Z professionals want a balance between technology and in-person opportunities. To meet this need, planners should create analog experiences like speed networking and mentorship meetups while thoughtfully using tech as an enhancement tool—think matchmaking algorithms and interactive elements. The key is using digital tools to amplify, not replace, human connection. Strategic digital touchpoints maintain engagement before and after events, while dedicated face-to-face time helps build lasting professional relationships.

SM What role do live events play in helping Gen Z professionals advance their careers compared to older generations?

MW Live events provide opportunities for closing the professional development gap facing Gen Z. The report shows only 57% of Gen Z feel successful in their careers, compared to 70% of Millennials and 66% of Gen X. Even more telling, Gen Z professionals average just 16 strong business relationships, while Millennials have 21 and Gen X maintains 40. With Gen Z projected to constitute 30% of the workforce by 2030, in-person events provide vital opportunities to build connections, develop confidence, and enhance interpersonal skills needed for career advancement.

SM What interactive elements (e.g., gamification, mentorship programs, speed networking) can planners incorporate to enhance Gen Z engagement?

MW With 82% of Gen Z wanting to feel more comfortable in face-to-face interactions, planners should focus on elements that build confidence through active participation. Speed networking sessions create quick connections, while mentorship programs pair young professionals with industry veterans for meaningful guidance. Interactive workshops focusing on soft skills development and informal social activities help Gen Z practice real-world interactions in a supportive environment. Creating dynamic experiences that balance structured networking with organic relationship-building is key.

Read More: It’s All About Engagement!

SM How can planners structure events to make career-building opportunities more accessible and appealing to Gen Z?

MW [Since] 95% of Gen Z recognizes the importance of personal business connections for career success, planners should create environments that make networking feel natural and accessible. Gen Z values structured yet informal opportunities to build connections and develop skills. Planners can make professional development more inviting and impactful for this generation by creating interactive, low-pressure environments.

SM What are the best ways to integrate technology at live events without making Gen Z feel disconnected?

MW Technology should be a facilitator rather than a barrier to real-world connections. With 69% of Gen Z reporting that technology has made them feel more isolated in their professional lives, thoughtful tech integration should prioritize meaningful interactions, making live events more engaging and valuable. Immersive experiences, such as AR/VR activations, can enhance engagement without replacing human interaction. Additionally, event organizers should create spaces for unplugged moments, ensuring Gen Z has opportunities to build relationships without digital distractions.

SM How can event organizers position in-person events as a valuable investment for companies looking to support Gen Z employees?

MW Live events provide structured opportunities for skill development, mentorship, and authentic networking, helping young employees build the interpersonal connections they crave, but [these elements are] often lacking in digital work environments. By showcasing data—like Gen Z’s strong preference for face-to-face career-building experiences—organizers can highlight how investing in live events leads to higher engagement, stronger teams, and long-term company loyalty. Investing in live events directly addresses Gen Z’s desire for meaningful professional connections while fostering employee engagement and long-term company loyalty.

Getting lost in the sea of travel booking platforms? Travelport and Chase are using AI to secure your attention. Have an upcoming meeting in Ottawa? A new transit extension just made your attendees’ arrival process smoother. Dreaming of shorter TSA wait times (aren’t we all)? Germany’s Frankfurt Airport just debuted exciting new technology that may soon have us all moving faster.

As always, Smart Travel is here to bring you the latest can’t-miss news in tourism and travel.

Chase Travel Group and Travelport Sign Multi-Year Agreement for Travel Bookings

In a move that will enhance travel booking capabilities for corporate travelers and meeting profs, Travelport has announced an expanded long-term partnership with Chase Travel Group, the travel business unit of JPMorganChase. This agreement grants Chase Travel Group access to Travelport’s advanced retailing technology and multi-source travel content via the Travelport+ platform.

For meeting profs, this means more seamless access to competitive airfares, hotel accommodations and car rentals—all curated through Travelport’s AI-driven Content Curation Layer. As airlines increasingly adopt New Distribution Capability (NDC) technology, Travelport’s solution ensures that planners and business travelers can efficiently compare and book the best options across multiple suppliers.

“As we expand our premium travel offerings for the travelers who book through Chase Travel Group, we are excited to retain our partnership with Travelport,” said Danielle Serban, chief product officer at Chase Travel Group. “Together, we look forward to continuing to elevate our loyalty program and delivering exceptional travel experiences for our customers.”

Ottawa Light Rail Transit Extends to International Airport

Ottawa’s long-awaited extension of its Light Rail Transit (LRT) system to Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) has arrived. Now, visitors can enjoy a seamless, affordable and eco-friendly connection between the airport and downtown, making travel to Canada’s capital smoother than ever.

For meeting profs organizing conferences and corporate gatherings at the Shaw Centre and other downtown venues, this new transit option simplifies logistics for international delegates. In under 30 minutes, attendees can go from their flight to the heart of Ottawa.

“Ottawa continues to position itself as a world-class destination for international conferences and events,” said Lesley Pincombe, vice president of meetings and major events at Ottawa Tourism. “The new LRT extension ensures that delegates and travelers arriving in Ottawa experience the city’s efficiency and hospitality from the moment they land.”

Beyond convenience, the LRT extension underscores Ottawa’s commitment to sustainability, offering a greener way to explore the city. This development complements other recent investments in Ottawa’s event infrastructure, including new hotels, world-class venues and expanded international flight routes.

Aethos Acquires Yayem to Elevate the Modern Members’ Club Experience

Aethos, Europe’s fastest-growing lifestyle hotel brand, has acquired Yayem, an experiential members’ club and travel app designed for modern-day explorers. This strategic move enhances the Aethos experience by integrating Yayem’s cutting-edge digital platform with Aethos’ expanding network of hotels, clubs and bespoke travel experiences.

With this acquisition, members will enjoy access to all Aethos destinations along with Yayem’s curated retreats, including surfing in Portugal, skiing in the Italian Alps, yoga in Sardinia and sailing in Mallorca. They will also gain entry to Aethos’ exclusive city clubs, with upcoming locations in London, Madrid, Lisbon and Mexico City. Luxury perks such as exclusive access to the Aethos Yacht in Mallorca, hotel discounts, spa benefits and complimentary upgrades further elevate the membership experience.

“This acquisition represents the next chapter in our journey,” said Benjamin Habbel, co-founder and CEO of Aethos. “Together with Yayem, we’re building a truly epic global members’ community that combines our shared passion for exploration, design and community. This is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to welcome existing and new members to this new chapter.”

Lindsey Elkin, co-founder of Yayem, will step into the role of vice president of membership at Aethos. “I first discovered Aethos as a guest at their Milan hotel in 2022,” she shared. “From the start, it was clear to me that our brands and vision were perfectly aligned. I can’t wait to bring the newly formed Aethos Club to the world!”

Quark Expeditions Unveils ‘Arctic 26: Ice, Fire and The Eclipse’

For meeting and event planners looking to elevate incentive travel to the next level, Quark Expeditions’ newly announced Arctic 2026: Ice, Fire and The Eclipse season offers unparalleled opportunities for extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime rewards. Celebrating 35 years of polar exploration, Quark’s most diverse Arctic itinerary lineup to date presents a major wow-factor way to motivate top performers with adventure-driven travel experiences.

With exclusive voyages aboard state-of-the-art vessels Ultramarine and Ocean Explorer, guests can explore Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland and the Canadian Arctic through breathtaking, immersive activities. From soaring above Iceland’s volcanic landscapes via twin-engine helicopter to kayaking beneath towering Arctic bird cliffs, each itinerary is designed for high achievers who crave exploration and discovery.

Two newly introduced itineraries stand out as remarkable options for incentive programs:

Iceland Circumnavigation: Helicopters, Glaciers and Volcanoes—A thrilling journey around Iceland that offers unique aerial perspectives, glacier hikes and geothermal wonders.
Iceland to Greenland: A Total Solar Eclipse—A rare celestial experience in the remote High Arctic, allowing travelers to witness a total solar eclipse in one of the most pristine environments on Earth.

Frankfurt Airport Introduces World-First 360-Degree Walkthrough Security Scanner

Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is shaking up the future of air travel security with the introduction of the QPS Walk2000, a 360-degree walkthrough security scanner now officially approved by the German Federal Police. After nearly a year of rigorous testing, this AI-supported technology is set to transform the passenger screening process, offering a faster and more seamless experience.

Unlike traditional body scanners that require travelers to stop and raise their arms, the QPS Walk2000 allows passengers to walk through naturally, significantly reducing wait times and making the security process feel less intrusive. Frankfurt is the first airport in the world to implement this scanner for routine use, with plans to expand it beyond Concourse A of Terminal 1 into additional checkpoints, including the new Terminal 3.

Alexander Laukenmann, head of Fraport AG’s aviation division, highlighted the significance of this advancement, noting that it sets a new global standard for passenger security. “Our collaboration with the German Federal Police has been key to optimizing this technology and securing its certification. This innovation is part of our continuous efforts to enhance the passenger experience by making security checks faster and more user-friendly while maintaining the highest safety standards.”

The QPS Walk2000 operates using millimeter-wave imaging, which can detect concealed objects in real time without the need for physical pat-downs. If an alarm is triggered, security personnel can focus on a specific area rather than requiring a full-body rescan, making the process more efficient for both passengers and staff.

Frankfurt Airport has invested approximately €22 million in security enhancements, including advanced CT systems and redesigned checkpoint lanes. Since assuming responsibility for aviation security in early 2023, Frankfurt Airport has worked closely with the German Federal Police to integrate cutting-edge technology that balances efficiency with safety.

Gather in city icons with these new and renovated hotels.

The latest in new and renovated hotels stand in sought-after cities. Whether gathering regional attendees or those coming from all over, these properties offer can’t-get-anywhere-else experiences that celebrate the cities they call home. Here’s how you can give your attendees sense of place like never before.

Journey through NOLA History

Le Pavilion, Bar 1803, for new and renovated — Bar 1803 at Le Pavilion, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Landmark hotel known as the “Belle of New Orleans,” Le Pavilion, is now a member of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio collection. Alongside its designation as a Tribute Portfolio hotel, it celebrates a grand re-opening following a $19 million renovation. The historic downtown property dates back to 1907 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has been home to many stories, from employing the parents of celebrated musician Louis Armstrong and housing hidden passageways for dignitaries during the Prohibition Era.

Immediately recognizable by its fluted Corinthian columns, the hotel’s refreshed design re-invigorates its iconic European-inspired style while infusing modern touches. Its interior nods to the European Renaissance upon a guest’s first step into the lobby, decorated with rich velvet hues of deep emerald and royal purple alongside dramatic columns, high ceilings featuring carved crown molding and gold detailing, chandeliers and avant-garde lamps. Throughout the hotel, visitors can find globally sourced antiquities, original art and custom furnishings, including original 19^th century Rococo Revival beds signed by renowned woodworker C. Lee. The exuberant design continues throughout all 226 guest rooms with features like patterned wallpaper and accent pillows wrapped in eccentric art designs. Guests can catch a feel for the hotel’s theme of “turning history on its head” with a series of upside-down portraits mounted intermittently throughout the hotel.

Le Pavilion captures the Tribute Portfolio’s dedication to design-forward spaces and immersive experiences with six themed suites, plus other spaces like the secluded, velvet-draped lounge, Bar 1803, which serves Louisiana cuisine and can be rented as an event space. The property offers 10,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event spaces across 16 design-forward spaces named after iconic moments in French history.

Meetings with a View

Solarium in Timbri Hotel San Francisco for New and Renovated — Timbri Hotel San Francisco

Timbri Hotel San Francisco officially opens its doors, becoming the first Curio Collection by Hilton in San Francisco. The 12-story property stands in the city’s Mid-Market neighborhood, serving as a gateway to the city’s theater district and situating guests walking distance to Moscone Convention Center.

Its character is rooted in a “Sanctuary in the City” concept. It emphasizes “city nature,” balancing lush elements with sleek urban style. The green-infused color palette and modern greenhouse-inspired architecture invites in ample natural light, and rich, grounding tones and fresh accents celebrate local culture and creativity. A Flatiron-inspired exterior ties in the contemporary.

Thoughtfully curated spaces, such as the rooftop bar and terrace and four distinct dining spaces, bring in the energy and character of the city. The hotel showcases works by Bay Area artists, and features rotating pieces from local artists in its coffee shop through a partnership with Bay Area visual arts non-profit, Root Division. All 236 guest rooms feature expansive city views through double-paneled floor-to-ceiling windows. The property offers 6,250 sq. ft. of meeting and event space. The rooftop solarium is perfect for a memorable experience with panoramic views of the iconic San Francisco skyline and a 2,000-square-foot hospitality suite with an adjoining terrace.

Read More: Authors Rave About San Francisco

Landmark Spaces Make for Innovative Ideas

The Crawford Hotel for New and Renovated — The Crawford Hotel

Downtown Denver sees an extensive refresh to its landmark Denver Union Station and The Crawford Hotel. A Denver icon, Union Station originally opened in 1881 and reopened in July 2014 following a $54 million renovation that created The Crawford Hotel, named after urban preservationist and Union Station Alliance member Dana Crawford. The latest renovation includes notable updates to the 10,000-square-foot Great Hall, ever-popular for semi-private events, now reconfigured to create a more organic feel, with curved lines that emphasize the soaring ceilings and historic arches, and the addition of lush plants and warm lighting.

The overall design embraces the grand architecture of Denver Union Station, drawing inspiration from the golden age of train travel. Guests can enjoy an elevated arrival experience, with an inviting new lobby in The Parlour, separate from the Great Hall and with private elevator access to guest room floors. Plus, with an evolving schedule of daily lobby programming, from live local music to welcome cocktails, guests are immediately immersed in the atmosphere.

All 112 guest rooms feature large, scalloped headboards with pearl-inspired sconces, alongside custom-made furniture, window treatments in rich jewel tones and floral ceiling coverings, tied together by an eclectic mix of locally sourced art. Arched doorways nod to the Mizpah Arch that welcomed visitors to Denver Union Station in the early 1900s.

Beyond the Great Hall, the property offers over 7,000 square feet of flexible event space, with full buyouts available at restaurant Cooper Lounge, updated with new furniture and lighting. Union Station is home to several local shops and restaurants, and even more food concepts following the renovation. The Crawford Hotel recently was honored with a Michelin Guide One Key, demonstrating its commitment to excellence.

Read More: Colorado: Rocky Mountain High

Insights from Wellhub’s work-life wellness report

Finding a balance between well-being and a career can be challenging. Planners must understand their attendees’ wellness needs and intentionally incorporate them into events.

Wellhub recently released a report, “The State of Work-Life Wellness,” highlighting the benefits of integrating wellness into the workplace.

Meeting planners can use wellness as a vital tool for their teams and attendees. By embedding wellness into their work environment and events, they can drive engagement and satisfaction on a larger scale.

Smart Meetings explored the report to determine which aspects are most relevant to meeting planners, from their immediate teams to event execution.

Worker Well-Being

According to Wellhub’s findings, 47% of 5,000 full-time workers polled stated that work stress negatively impacts their mental health.

The study highlights the significant role of well-being programs. Employees with access to well-being programs report 16% higher overall well-being. Sixty-nine percent of employees who use these programs feel optimistic about their well-being, compared to 53% of workers without a wellness program.

Among employees whose company provides a mental wellness program, 59% reported improved well-being over the past year. In contrast, only 36% of employees without a mental wellness program reported the same.

Workplace Retention

Adding wellness programs can improve both events and employee retention.

Eighty-five percent of workers believe their employer is responsible for supporting their overall wellness. Eighty-three percent of employees said they would consider leaving their position if their company did not prioritize well-being—a significant increase from 68% in 2022.

Turnover is costly for businesses. Incorporating wellness initiatives can increase team satisfaction, reduce turnover and keep employees aligned with company goals.

As Millennials and Gen Z become the dominant workforce, wellness is no longer optional—it is an essential component of a business model. Aligning with employees’ expectations fosters a strong workplace culture and ensures a productive, committed team.

The ROI of Wellness

The big question: What does an organization gain by prioritizing wellness?

Companies see $2 in return for every $1 invested in wellness programs.

Ninety-five percent of companies that track their wellness initiatives report positive results.

Ninety-eight percent of companies tracking wellness programs have noted productivity, engagement and employee retention improvements.

Wellness initiatives contribute to lower absenteeism, increased productivity and improved performance, directly impacting a company’s bottom line.

Wellness = Productivity

How productive are you at work when you have a head cold? Not very. The same applies to mental and physical well-being. Engagement and productivity suffer when employees or event attendees are not at their best.

For events, offering wellness-focused programs such as mindfulness, meditation, therapy or counseling services, along with flexible work arrangements, can enhance concentration, improve emotional well-being and boost job satisfaction.

These wellness elements can also serve as interactive, engaging activities for event attendees.

Taking Action

Implementing wellness initiatives within a team or event setting does not have to be complicated.

For internal teams, start with:

Standing desks
Walking breaks
Midday stretch sessions
Biweekly meditation sessions

For events, planners can:

Schedule mindfulness breaks between sessions to help attendees reset.
Invite a wellness-focused speaker or panel to provide actionable strategies.
Create quiet zones or wellness lounges to allow attendees to recharge.

These simple steps can significantly impact employee well-being and attendee engagement.

Food for Thought

To snack or not to snack?

According to the report, 58% of employees say their job makes it harder to eat healthy.

If you’re incorporating a snack table at your event or in the office, consider offering fruit, nuts and healthy snacks instead of pastries and processed foods.

To encourage sustainable, healthy habits, set up a hydration station with infused water options and provide reusable water bottles.

In a quest to better understand what is really happening in Southern California after the well-publicized fires last month, we asked Los Angeles Tourism President and CEO Adam Burke what meeting professionals can expect when they arrive. He described a city physically intact, but mourning emotional losses and eager to return to work and life.

How has the Los Angeles hospitality industry fared during the fires?

LA Tourism President and CEO Adam Burke — Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board President and CEO

This is an extremely difficult time for Angelenos. Many are facing unimaginable loss, while others are trying to foster a sense of stability. It’s important that we recognize both the heartbreak and the resilience that define our community in this moment.

While it’s still too early to have a full picture of the impact of hotel occupancy and transient visits, apart from the Getty Villa in the Pacific Palisades, all of our convention venues, meeting spaces, 259+ member hotels and supporting infrastructure remain open and unaffected. Los Angeles is well-equipped to host events of all sizes, with a proven ability to adapt and ensure a seamless experience for planners and attendees alike.

As anticipated, the Los Angeles City Council is expected to hear a formal recommendation on the Los Angeles Convention Center expansion project by the end of March. We are excited about the possibility of adding additional contiguous space to our already world-class meeting and convention package.

Any stories of going above and beyond?

We’re really grateful for our incredible meetings and events community who understand that the single best way to support Los Angeles right now, and keep businesses open, is by hosting their meetings and events here in LA.

Major conventions that have hosted meetings in Los Angeles since the wildfires began have also prioritized giving back. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, which recently held its Annual Meeting in LA, contributed to relief efforts through the Thoracic Surgery Foundation by launching the STS Los Angeles Wildfire Response Fund, which raised over $250,000.

In addition, the recent Americas Lodging Investment Summit took place from January 28 to 30, at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE. Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, Northstar Travel Group, and the American Hotel & Lodging Association joined forces at ALIS with delegate volunteers and LA Works to assemble 500 support kits for emergency responders involved in the Los Angeles wildfires.

What should meeting professionals know?

LA continues to be open for business and remains a global stage for major sporting events. Planners and attendees can experience the host venues including the new Intuit Dome (host of NBA All-Star 26) and SoFi Stadium (host of the FIFA World Cup 26, Super Bowl LXI in 2027, and the opening ceremony of the 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games).

What’s more is the development across our destination, including the multi-billion modernization of Los Angeles International Airport, an expanded public transit system, and new state-of-the-art venues like the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, slated to open next year.

We are proud that Los Angeles remains one of the world’s most diverse and inclusive destinations, where visitors and meetings & events feel not only welcomed but embraced by our community.

What can planners do to help?

Hosting an event in Los Angeles is the best way for meeting planners to support the city’s recovery. Events fuel the local economy, keep businesses open, and support the livelihoods of over 540,000 Angelenos who work in the tourism and hospitality industry.

How to Help: Search Foundation Wildfire Relief Resources

In response to the recent fatal air collision in Washington, D.C., President Donald Trump called for an upgrade to the U.S. air traffic control system. Romania has been added to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, opening up new opportunities for international tourism. Hilton announced a major expansion in India, with the first DoubleTree by Hilton set to open in 2027. Breeze Airways expands its network, adding new routes in 2024, with plans to grow in Memphis, Albany and Rochester.

As always, Smart Travel is here to keep you up-to-date on the latest must-read travel and tourism news.

President Trump Calls for Updated Air Traffic Control System

President Trump said in a statement Thursday that he would work with Congress to ensure the speedy adoption of a new computerized air traffic control system after last week’s collision of an Army helicopter and a commercial jet that killed 67 people. Reporting in Reuters indicated that he would be looking for more advanced systems produced in other countries.

The statement follows a Jan. 29 Presidential Action that called for a review of all hiring decisions and changes to safety protocols made at the Federal Aviation Administration over the last four years in order to “instill an unwavering commitment to aviation safety, and ensure that all Americans fly with peace of mind.

Romania Added to Visa Waiver Program

Romania on map

Looking to increase attendance at your next international conference? The U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) added Romania to the list of 43 countries that have been cleared to allow citizens to apply for authorization to travel for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without a U.S. visa. The same is true for Americans traveling to VWP countries under the reciprocal security agreement. Other countries added to the program over the last four years include Croatia, Israel and Qatar. Argentina and Uruguay are no longer part of the program.

U.S. Travel Association welcomed the addition, but called further expansion of the program a golden opportunity for the incoming administration to boost national security and the benefits of travel and commerce to the U.S. economy. “Expanding the Visa Waiver Program with the addition of Romania is a welcome step toward building back our share of global travel. The VWP enhances national security with greater information sharing between governments while facilitating increased travel for millions of potential visitors.”

It turns out that Romania, a European Union country, is home to 19 million with a relatively young workforce. The country is home to a robust automotive manufacturing industry and a growing IT and business services sector.

Hilton Partners to Grow in India

When announcing an agreement to build a first DoubleTree by Hilton in 2027 in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, an economic hub in Central India in collaboration with Sage Group, a company spokesperson focused on plans for growth in the area. Zubin Saxena, senior vice president and regional head, South Asia, Hilton said, “This signing underscores our commitment to growth in key regional markets, enabling us to offer Hilton’s signature hospitality to a broader audience.”

The upcoming DoubleTree by Hilton Bhopal will cater to both business and leisure travelers. It will feature 229 rooms, making the hotel the largest in the city to date. The property will also feature three restaurants and bars—an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant and a lobby lounge. With 21,000 sq. ft. of event space, including an 8,000-square-foot ballroom, the hotel will host conferences, weddings and corporate events. It is located near commercial and retail complexes, 17 km from Raja Bhoj Airport and 10 km from the Bhopal Junction Railway Station.

Breeze Airways Expands Again

Spirit Airlines may be in bankruptcy and cutting back, but the future seems to be looking up for Utah-based budget airline Breeze Airways (Breeze Aviation Group Inc.) which was founded by JetBlue co-founder David Neeleman and bills itself as “the nicer way to fly.”

The carrier added 29 airports in 2024 and is planning to add three more—Memphis International Airport (MEM) in Tennessee, Albany International Airport (ALB) and Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC), both in New York. That will bring the total places Breeze operates in to 70, mostly secondary markets or what Neeleman calls “underserved routes.”

Read More: Airport Mystery Codes

Brad Dean

Brad Dean, Explore St. Louis.

Dean takes on the role of president & CEO at Explore St. Louis, bringing over two decades of leadership in travel and tourism. Both in his most recent position as CEO of Discover Puerto Rico, and earlier, his 20 years as president & CEO of the Myrtle Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, his work significantly expanded tourism and the tourism economy. He now joins St. Louis well-equipped to elevate the city as a premier destination.

Thiago Araujo

Thiago Araujo, BCD Meetings & Events

BCD Meetings & Events welcomes Araujo as global sustainability director. Araujo will work to formalize the organization’s sustainability mission, leading the company’s global sustainability strategy by aligning operations with environmental and social goals, driving climate urgency initiatives, advancing sustainable partnerships, delivering comprehensive training and implementing sustainability into company culture. He brings over 15 years of experience working at the intersection of sustainability, business development and strategic leadership.

Mgeni Mpolo

Mgeni Mpolo, Pendry West Hollywood

Pendry West Hollywood appoints Mpolo as director of sales & marketing. With over two decades of experience, he is well-equipped to oversee all aspects of sales and marketing, driving brand awareness and growth and achieving revenue goals across guestrooms, banquets and catering. He most recently served as managing director at The Brilliant Advice Company in Zanzibar. Earlier, he held roles at W San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco and held a tenure at Marriott International.

Jamie Bruce

Jamie Bruce, Teneo Hospitality Group

Bruce, who has been an integral part of Teneo Hospitality Group’s leadership team for the past decade, transitions into his new role as president. He succeeds Mike Schugt, who steps down after 10 years to focus on non-profit endeavors, and which whom Bruce has spent the last two years working closely to shape Teneo’s strategy and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders. Bruce is known for his collaborative approach and passion for driving success, and brings expertise in sales, marketing, commercial operations and strategic planning, particularly with luxury independent hotels and resorts.

Maggie Miller

Maggie Miller, Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island appoints Miller as sales and marketing coordinator. With expertise in event coordination, social media management and recreation marketing, Miller will work to support the resort’s sales and marketing initiatives, creating targeting digital marketing campaigns and focusing on events, resort packages and recreational amenities.

Chelsea Dunlop Welter

Chelsea Dunlop Welter, Destinations International Foundation

Welter is appointed to the role of managing director at Destinations International Foundation. She joined Destinations International (DI) in 2016, and earlier served as executive assistant to the president & CEO at Choose Chicago. Since 2021, Welter has served as the senior vice president of governance and administration at Destinations International, where she oversaw all aspects of administration and operations for the organization while directly supporting the executive office. She also currently manages board governance and supervision for the DI Board of Directors and the DI Foundation Board of Trustees, and their respective committees and task forces. She will continue to provide this oversight while also assuming the duties of her new role.

Drew Holmgreen

Drew Holmgreen, PPAI

Holmgreen joins Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) as president & CEO. He most recently served as Meeting Professionals International’s (MPI) Chief Experience Officer, where he managed global strategies, enhanced member experiences and drove revenue growth. He also served as MPI’s equity, diversity and inclusion executive lead. He brings over two decades of experience in strategic leadership, inclusion, brand development, experiential innovation and organizational growth. In his new role with PPAI, he will focus on elevating the role of promotional products as an essential part of global marketing and driving creativity and impact within the industry.

Sarah Christie Rydell

Sarah Christie Rydell, JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa

Sarah Christie Rydell takes on the role of resort manager at JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. Rydell brings nearly 25 years of experience across various operational leadership roles, including complex director of operations, director of restaurant and bar and director of banquet operations in the luxury lifestyle segment. Known for her engaging approach, Rydell is a leader focused on delivering strong brand experiences to elevate the guest experience.

Becky Cavanaugh

Becky Cavanaugh, MGME

MGME welcomes Cavanaugh as its new director of operations to oversee the strategic planning, management and execution of all meeting and event-related activities, with a focus on client engagement and satisfaction, driving horizontal account growth and ensuring alignment with clients’ business objectives. She brings over two decades of leadership and expertise in medical meetings, and spent 18 years with Syneos Health as program director for Global Medical Meetings and Events, driving event strategy and execution. Cavanaugh holds immense industry influence, serving as an advisory board member for both Global DMC Partners and Pharma Forum.

Adam Berrios

Adam Berrios, Visit Sandy Springs

Berrios steps in as executive director at Visit Sandy Springs. His extensive experience spans past roles such as senior sales manager at the Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau, and vice president of sales and services at the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau, in which he directed and planned all activities of the sales department, group travel and client services and the destination services team, while also leading hotel partner relations.

Sun-filled meetings are in your future, with these new and renovated resorts.

Whether you’re drawn to the fresh coastal air or dream of exploring expansive valleys, there are plenty of ways to soak up the sunshine; and we all know that working that natural light into your meetings not only makes them completely beautiful—it makes for happier attendees with healthy circadian rhythms.

As we prepare to welcome the spring, and before we know it, the summer, hosting a meeting in a destination that provides all the sunshine we’ve been waiting for is a no-brainer.

The Island Life is Calling

Islander Resort Oceanside room back patio for New and renovated — Islander Resort, Oceanside Room, back patio

Islamorada’s Islander Resort unveils a full property transformation, completely renovating its 114 bungalows and suites and 25 two-bedroom townhome villas. It has also refreshed its resort grounds, dining outlets and event spaces.

The bungalow-style retreats immerse visitors in tropical ease and sophisticated luxury, with waterfront views complimented by a beach-inspired design of pastel hues and natural textures like woven wicker and polished wood alongside modern amenities. It only gets better with furnished patio spaces to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Plus, 12 new Cabana Poolside Rooms offer larger patios that lead to dedicated poolside cabanas. And 14 oceanside suites, including the Islander Two Bedroom Suite, feature full kitchens and full dining and living areas. The 25 Bayside Villas, designed for extended stays, offer two bedrooms, a living area with a sofa bed, a gourmet kitchen and a private deck.

The expansive beachfront is enhanced with newly planted palm trees alongside locally crafted palapas and sun huts alongside raw wood, rope and hemp cane furnishings. Two reimagined pool areas include the Oasis Pool and saltwater Terrace Pool, which include suspended beds, shaded cabanas, and hammocks hidden away in tropical gardens. There’s plenty of time for fun, too, with complimentary offerings like the 9-hole Seaside Links putting course, guided excursions to the world’s third-largest barrier reef and permanent courts for pickleball, volleyball and more. Five onsite culinary outlets offer a laid-back atmosphere to enjoy local flavors. If you’re craving some fish tacos, head to the oceanfront Coccoloba. Then, pop over to the new thatched-roof bar, Sandy’s.

Islander Resort offers over 129,000 sq. ft. of versatile indoor and outdoor beachfront event space. The Islander House Conference Center sees fully renovated indoor event spaces, with new elegant coastal-inspired lighting fixtures, updated flooring and soothing neutral tones. Events can also opt to enjoy the expansive horizon with outdoor options like Tideline Terrace, the Great Lawn, or Islander Beach’s Coral Pointe.

Luxury in the Heart of Nature

SLS Playa Mujeres for New and Renovated — SLS Playa Mujeres, Captivate King Suites

Cancún’s newest luxury destination opens its doors as SLS Playa Mujeres. The first all-inclusive resort along the Yucatán Peninsula offers 498 guest rooms and suites, all featuring fully furnished balconies and terraces, set across Delight, Captivate and Euphoria Categories. Captivate Swim Out rooms feature lush private gardens that lead to river pools. The property also offers a collection of one- and two-bedroom suites, as well as The Envy, which offers three king bedrooms with ensuites and an expansive outdoor terrace with sea views. SLS Elite rooms offer another level of luxury, with a private roof deck jacuzzi, lounge and panoramic rooms; guests of Elite rooms enjoy private lounge access, preferred dining reservations and entry to an exclusive beach, along with personalized check-in, butler service, a premium spirits package, airport transfers for extended stays and a complimentary Ciel Spa thermal bath experience.

The Ciel Spa is the heart of the resort. A 20,000-square-foot wellness destination with thermal baths, an outdoor tranquility pool and 20 treatment rooms with innovative treatments invite guests to enjoy wellness at the next level. The property also boasts an outstanding culinary scene, with 18 distinctive culinary and mixology experiences, from a New York steakhouse style at Union, to fresh-off-the-boat Mexican seafood at Caracol, to expertly mixed cocktails and DJ beats at Privilege and so much more.

Meetings and events will find nine versatile spaces, including a hybrid theater and a nearly 10,000-square-foot ballroom. Though conveniently located just 30-minutes from Cancún International Airport, SLS Playa Mujeres offers an experience off the beaten path, with abundant natural beauty. Guests will fund true sense of place, with plenty of experiences to enjoy the rich history and culture of the Mayan civilization with day trips and easy access to Cancún’s celebrated dining and nightlife scene.

As Far as the Eye Can See

Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa for New and Renovated — Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa

Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa announces a multi-million renovation to its 350 luxurious, pueblo-style guestrooms. The refreshed design draws inspiration from its location on 500 acres of the Pueblo of Santa Ana—a unique cultural environment between Santa Fe and Albuquerque, New Mexico.

All guest rooms include a king-sized bed or two queen-sized beds, framed by comfortable lighting on each side that illuminates the room’s earthy colors. The redesigned guest rooms center the traditions and styles of the Santa Ana Pueblo with rich red and blue hues, reflective of Native woven fabrics and pueblo clay pottery. Native-inspired wall hangings and drapes tie the look together. All rooms include state-of-the-art bathrooms with expansive vanity walls, marble countertops, back lighting and a sliding barn door, as well as a large show closet and wardrobe and a beverage center. The resort has also updated its corridors with new carpeting and wall coverings that incorporate the wood tones and warm colors featured in the guest rooms.

In anticipation of the renovation debut, the resort offers a new selection of signature experiences, including horseback rides to explore the Rio Grande, Bosque cottonwood forest and cultural sites, as well as educational and cultural experiences led by Tamayame tribe members from bread baking to tours of the Tamaya Cultural Learning Center.

Other opportunities at the property include enjoying championship golf at the resort’s 18-hole Twin Warriors Golf Club, locally inspired treatments at the award-winning Tamaya Mist Spa & Salon and five miles of hiking trails. The property offers over 54,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting and event space, including the 12,000-square-foot Tamaya Ballroom.

WEFTEC Earns EIC’s Platinum-level Sustainable Event Standards Certification

In October 2024, over 20,000 professionals in the global water sector gathered in New Orleans’ Ernest N. Morial Convention Center for the Water Environment Federation’s (WEF) annual Technical Exhibition and Conference (WEFTEC). A few months later, in January, the Events Industry Council (EIC) announced that the event had achieved Platinum-level certification of its Sustainable Event Standards—the highest level possible—a particularly momentous feat due to WEFTEC’s achievement of Gold-level certification for it’s event just one year prior.

Stephanie Jones, managing director, event strategy, WEF

Smart Meetings followed up with Stephanie Jones, CAE, CMP Fellow, SEPC, the managing director of event strategy at WEF. Jones offered a wealth of insights about how her team reached this distinguished achievement, and advice for planners who want to do the same.

“Achieving the highest level of certification to the Events Industry Council’s Sustainable Event Standards is a testament to our dedication to sustainability and commitment to advancing practices that benefit the communities we serve,” Jones shared in a press release.

Read More: Sustainability as a Practice

The Sustainable Event Standards

EIC’s Sustainable Event Standards is a set of eight specific standards with key performance criteria. It is designed to provide organizations and event professionals with a framework to implement and measure sustainable practices—propelling the entire industry to aspire towards a greener and more socially responsible version of itself.

Jones speaks to how the Standards provide transparent guidance for event planners and organizations working towards this goal. “EIC’s Sustainable Event Standards have provided us with a clear path to elevate our efforts and set a new benchmark for sustainable events in our industry,” she says.

Applicants who seek certification are assessed on their achievement in each area—organizational management; marketing, communications and engagement; climate action; water management; materials and circularity; supply chain management; DEI; accessibility; and social impact. They are awarded a certain number of points for their achievement in each specific sector, as well as an overall completion percentage, which determines the level of achievement: Bronze (50%), Silver (65%), Gold (80%) or Platinum (90%). EIC also offers a Foundations level certificate, which emphasizes education, tools and resources to support widespread adoption of sustainable practices across the industry.

Planning for Progress

“WEFTEC’s achievement exemplifies what is possible when event organizers commit to integrating sustainability into every facet of their operations,” remarked EIC CEO Amy Calvert. “This certification not only reflects WEF’s leadership but also demonstrates their dedication to setting a high standard for environmental and social responsibility in the events industry.”

Waste audit at Ernest N Morial Convention Center for WEFTEC sustainable event standards case study — WEFTEC’s waste audit at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

As the team planned the 2023 event, Jones says, they relied heavily on the Sustainable Event Standards to see exactly what they need to implement and what they needed from their supplier partners, demonstrating to the wider industry how the standards can serve as a guideline. Once the team knew what they needed to do, they created a detailed roadmap to achieve the goals they set out, with specific steps and timelines to hold themselves accountable.

When it came time to plan the 2024 event, the team knew they had what it took to achieve Gold, and felt confident that they could go even further. One of the first steps they took when beginning the planning process for the 2024 event, Jones says, was adding sustainability requirements to their RFPs, ensuring sustainability was considered thoroughly from the start.

As the event drew closer, they continued to build on their efforts. They launched new environmental initiatives and brought in carefully selected partners that would help them achieve their goal. Jones says, “Environmental impacts include transportation, venue selection, food waste, sustainable sourcing, energy use, water conversation, and waste management. Consideration of how to minimize these impacts must be considered during the planning process.”

WEFTEC collaborated closely with the convention center to implement a waste audit to sort trash, for example, ensuring everything ended up in the correct waste stream. This often overlooked detail made a major impact on making the event more sustainable, not only environmentally, but socially, as it ensured the event did not harm the host community by leaving it with excess, unsorted waste.

“By making intentional choices in these areas, event professionals can drastically reduce their environmental footprint while creating meaningful and responsible experiences,” Jones explains.

Change is in the Details

“Sustainability in event planning requires a holistic approach,” Jones says. “It is not only about environmental stewardship but also about social impact. As event planners, we must address the impact we make on local communities that host our events and find ways to give back.”

Fill it Forward's booth at WEFTEC sustainable event standards case study — Fill it Forward Booth at WEFTEC

Aptly, the Water Environment Federation event held a key focus on reducing waste from plastic water bottles. All F&B events and concessions eliminated plastic water bottles. WEF instead encouraged all attendees to bring reusable water bottles and, through a partnership with Fill it Forward, were able to distribute stickers with QR codes that attendees could place on their reusable bottles and scan each time they re-filled. At the end of the event, the convention center saw a record 27,000 refills. WEF also received recognition from Fill It Forward as one of their 2024 Changemakers.

WEFTEC offset 100% of its water usage at the convention center by using water restoration credits to fill in any gaps. Plus, WEF made a $5K donation to a Fill It Forward giving project; their donation went to improving access to clean water and sanitation facilities and promoting hygiene practices at schools in the Dominican Republic.

Through a partnership with Xylem, a WEFTEC sponsor, the event organizers were able to elevate their social impact initiatives, which earned notable points towards their Sustainable Event Standards certification.

Big Takeaways

Their greatest challenges, Jones says, was in asking venues and suppliers to pivot in order to meet the Sustainable Event Standards’ specific criteria, and then, collecting all the data and documentation the Sustainable Event Standards’ third-party audit requires in order to review the event and assess its level of achievement.

After the conclusion of the event, Jones says, WEFTEC requested a post-event sustainability report from the venue—which showed that record-making number of 27,000 water bottle refills, for one. “Starting the conversation early and giving everyone time to adapt or make the change is key,” Jones says. As she explained earlier, the team’s very first step was in the RFPs.

Although challenging, working with venues and suppliers is a crucial component of achieving sustainability goals. “Achieving certification requires partnership and collaboration and everyone has to be on board,” Jones says. Along these same lines, Jones expresses the importance of getting your leadership on board. Certification requires buy-in.

Read More: Going Beyond Green

How You Can Do It Too!

For planners who are just getting started on their sustainability journeys, Jones says, “Once your leadership is on board, take the EIC Sustainable Event Professional Certificate Programme and get access to the Standards. Assess where you are and determine what level of certification you can reasonably achieve. This is a journey, and planners can use the standards to take a phased approach to sustainability, even if they aren’t ready to certify.”

The journey is part of the process, and simply by choosing to embark on it, planners demonstrate commitment to building a more sustainable world. WEF’s achievement of Gold level certification in 2023, and later, achievement up to the next level in 2024, reflects the planner’s journey of creating ever-more sustainable events, and how positive impact exists in every step along the way.

EIC’s Sustainable Event Standards exist just for this purpose. The keywords on the Sustainable Event Standards webpage put it this way: The standards exist so that “event professionals at any stage in their sustainability journey have the support needed to implement and measure sustainable practices.” It’s a set of guidelines with achievable outcomes that all events can aspire to.

For those who want to learn more about sustainable events and propel themselves on their journey forward, Jones shares one final shoutout: The EIC Centre for Sustainability and Social Impact’s recently-released resource titled “The Good, Better & Best Steps to Sustainable Events.” Created in collaboration with In-House Corporate Event planner community (ICE), this resource is another one of the many that exist to support you on your sustainability journey—step by step!

The last seven years I’ve been living bicoastally, toggling back and forth from New York City then Los Angeles then NYC again. In 2020, I bought a car and drove across the country on a solo road trip because I knew that rebuilding my business, after Covid-19 ravaged it, I would not be able to thrive in a small apartment in a cold Manhattan winter. I needed sunshine, space, warm enough weather to walk outside and a playground comprised of nature the way only California provides.

What was intended to be a four-month period until the vaccines would be available and I could comfortably travel back via plane, turned into a three-year stint. I joke that I now know what it’s like to be The Bachelorette and in love with two people. Those people just happen to be cities. N.Y.C. gives me energy, urgency, creativity, style, grittiness and opportunity while LA provides natural beauty, a slower pace, deeper personal connections, delicious produce and the best Asian food in the United States, all among a backdrop of palm trees and snow capped mountains that you can’t believe is real.

My flight to LA was on Wednesday, Jan. 8. I was planning to be there to watch my friend’s dog and escape the NYC cold (again). After the fires began the day before and learning that one of my favorite restaurants I was scheduled to host a birthday brunch at the following Sunday had burnt to the ground and that two of my friends feared to have lost their homes, it was becoming clear this was not just another Malibu wildfire with superficial damage. With no Wi-Fi on the plane, I was left to brainstorm ways I could be of the best help and decided I could help Type 1 diabetics (T1D) get the supplies and medications they need.

After living with T1D for almost 30 years, I always joke that in the Zombie Apocalypse, I will be one of the first to go without access to insulin and insulin delivery supplies. I knew if I was thinking that, those actually in the middle of this disaster were experiencing it. After landing, retrieving the dog and setting alarms throughout the night to wake up and check evacuation notices for Venice, I knew strongly that I was here to help. When I opened Instagram Thursday morning, Laura Pavlakovich from You’re Just My Type posted about wanting to get supplies to people. I had been following Laura for a while and knew she was LA-based, but we’d never met.

You’re Just My Type is a nonprofit aiming to create community for T1Ds, support their mental health and let them know they are not alone in managing this disease. Immediately when I saw that people were trying to individually help each other get supplies, I knew she’d need a scalable system. I messaged her and implored her to let me help run this. It turned out Laura was traveling in London for work, so we were somehow serendipitously brought together.

Woman grabbing box full of diabetes supplies That day I created and took over the response for LA to get Type 1 diabetic supplies and insulin into the hands of those who needed it. We organized a mass scale donation system that enabled us to hand deliver medication and supplies all over Los Angeles county. A non-diabetic person may wonder why this was so critical. T1D is a chronic auto-immune disease that renders the pancreas unable to produce insulin. We need insulin as humans to survive and Type 1 diabetics must inject or infuse insulin all day, everyday to stay alive.

The supplies we need are regulated by insurance. In most cases we get 30 days exactly. That means no surplus supplies for travel or if anything goes wrong. We are relying on third-party suppliers and their third-party shippers to get life-sustaining supplies and medications into our hands.

Additionally, of late there have been insulin shortages and the disaster took place in January when many people’s insurance deductibles kicked in. The people who needed these supplies could not wait to move through the red tape. You see, as T1Ds, we’ve been doing this peer-to-peer mutual aid model among ourselves as a mechanism for survival but it was clear this was going to be needed on a much bigger scale. Laura and I were not going to let one person or family with T1D worry about this, on top of everything else, while displaced or dealing with the loss of their homes.

While as an event professional, I’m pretty confident I could take on and manage any situation quickly, efficiently and with a satisfied client, I hadn’t previously thought about how my event production and retail sampling skills prepared me for this moment. While working at Gap Inc., I worked on Gap’s first-ever mobile tour. I had to usher the process to turn a retro school bus into a roaming pop-up shop complete with staffing, ongoing updated inventory, a functional POS system (which in 2006 pre-dated mobile POS), tax compliance in each county, etc. While building the experiential division of Daymon Worldwide, I put a backend system in place that allowed us to auto hire event staff across the country, completing 40,000-plus sampling events in three years and deploying 1,000-plus event staff on any given weekend.

During my time as an executive at LeadDog Marketing Group, I shut down the Westside Highway for a 10k race, routed a seven-city, six-country global tour for a technology client and ran 50-plus retail grand opening events per year for a footwear client. When I started my company, FIT COLLECTIVE, which began as a partnership marketing firm in the fitness/wellness industry and has since evolved to create Employee Wellness Experiences on behalf of corporate organizations, I once again added to my toolbox skills that would prove advantageous professionally and as I would soon find out, critical in helping provide aid during one of the worst natural disasters our country has faced.

Whiteboard that says "You're Just My Type Collection Center"

Within 48 hours we mobilized a team of 400-plus volunteers, received donation submissions from 500-plus people in 35 states and three countries, we collected CGMs, devices that monitor blood glucose levels, and insulin pump supplies, in addition to 500-plus vials/pens of insulin and other necessary items such as glucometers, lancets, syringes, etc. We’ve made home deliveries to 50 people all over Los Angeles County.

In partnership with the Culver City Masons who shared their space, we opened a pick up center for anyone to walk in and get supplies they need. The tremendous work of our volunteers and everyone who amplified and shared our efforts was extraordinary, with over 1 million people learning about our efforts via social media. We’re continuing to support the needs in LA and are now figuring out how to utilize this system and these supplies to help anyone in need. LA has a long way to go to recover but I’m grateful to have been here to help for even a small portion.

I have been doubting humanity lately. After this week, I know we will help each other and that humanity is going to be ok.

—

Liz Van Voorhis is the founder and CEO of FIT COLLECTIVE, a consultancy focused in NYC and LA that creates wellness experiences, programming and content for corporate audiences. Part bad ass. Part cyborg. All heart. She has physically been broken down and put back together repeatedly and as a 25+ year fitness professional and Type 1 Diabetic, Liz personally understands how maintaining physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness allows you to fulfill your greatest life aspirations.