Midwest Meetings: How has being a part of MPI Ohio Chapter (MPIOH) made a difference in your career?
Don Miller: MPIOH provides great education content monthly to its members in conjunction with wonderful networking opportunities. The continuing education along with the opportunities to build relationships with other hospitality professionals has helped me build my business and my team of HelmsBriscoe associates in Ohio.
MM: What makes the MPIOH chapter different from other MPI chapters?
DM: Our chapter is unique in that we have monthly meetings which have to be able to draw planners and suppliers from all corners of our state. MPI considers us a large chapter due to membership numbers and geographical obstacles. It is challenging to draw northern members to an event in the south and vice versa. The quality of the venue, educational topics, and location must always exceed expectations.
MM: Does MPIOH offer unique experiences for new members?
DM: Orientation events and pairing new members with experienced members as mentors are ideas we have used in the past. Recognition of new members at chapter events as well.
MM: What have been some of the best received menus at MPIOH events?
DM: We encourage the venue which hosts the event to show off their culinary talents. I have never been disappointed with menus, themes, and the creative ideas of venues within our state.
MM: What is one tip you received in your career that you will never forget?
DM: Use your ears more than your mouth in meetings.
Don Miller: MPIOH provides great education content monthly to its members in conjunction with wonderful networking opportunities. The continuing education along with the opportunities to build relationships with other hospitality professionals has helped me build my business and my team of HelmsBriscoe associates in Ohio.
MM: What makes the MPIOH chapter different from other MPI chapters?
DM: Our chapter is unique in that we have monthly meetings which have to be able to draw planners and suppliers from all corners of our state. MPI considers us a large chapter due to membership numbers and geographical obstacles. It is challenging to draw northern members to an event in the south and vice versa. The quality of the venue, educational topics, and location must always exceed expectations.
MM: Does MPIOH offer unique experiences for new members?
DM: Orientation events and pairing new members with experienced members as mentors are ideas we have used in the past. Recognition of new members at chapter events as well.
MM: What have been some of the best received menus at MPIOH events?
DM: We encourage the venue which hosts the event to show off their culinary talents. I have never been disappointed with menus, themes, and the creative ideas of venues within our state.
MM: What is one tip you received in your career that you will never forget?
DM: Use your ears more than your mouth in meetings.
Midwest Meetings: Has being a member of MPIOH made a difference in your career?
Adriane Cesa: Short answer – YES! Having grown up around associations, I understood the inherent value of membership in a professional organization and knew that this group could change my career if I got more involved. I’ve taken the CMP, helped others with their CMP, joined a committee, and then joined the Board. I’ve been given opportunities and made connections through the networking and education offered by my local MPI chapter. Best of all - I’ve been able to give back to people as well!
MM: In your opinion, what makes MPIOH chapter different from other MPI chapters?
AC: Ohio is big enough that you can’t know everyone so you’re always meeting new people and learning from them, but small enough to make strong connections and be actively involved.
MM: Does MPIOH offer unique experiences for new members?
AC: For new members we ask that you join a committee within 30 days. I was “voluntold” to be on a committee, and it’s made a huge difference. The best way to describe it is, “So... you’re gonna suffer, but you’re gonna be happy about it.” – Ron Weasley, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
MM: What is one tip you received in your career that you will never forget?
AC: Never stop learning, and, if you think you know everything, then it’s time for a new adventure!
Adriane Cesa: Short answer – YES! Having grown up around associations, I understood the inherent value of membership in a professional organization and knew that this group could change my career if I got more involved. I’ve taken the CMP, helped others with their CMP, joined a committee, and then joined the Board. I’ve been given opportunities and made connections through the networking and education offered by my local MPI chapter. Best of all - I’ve been able to give back to people as well!
MM: In your opinion, what makes MPIOH chapter different from other MPI chapters?
AC: Ohio is big enough that you can’t know everyone so you’re always meeting new people and learning from them, but small enough to make strong connections and be actively involved.
MM: Does MPIOH offer unique experiences for new members?
AC: For new members we ask that you join a committee within 30 days. I was “voluntold” to be on a committee, and it’s made a huge difference. The best way to describe it is, “So... you’re gonna suffer, but you’re gonna be happy about it.” – Ron Weasley, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
MM: What is one tip you received in your career that you will never forget?
AC: Never stop learning, and, if you think you know everything, then it’s time for a new adventure!
