At Teneo, We Believe in the Power of People
Building real relationships, working together, and sharing knowledge helps every one of us in the meetings industry. That’s why Teneo is dedicated to supporting mentorship, sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and celebrating our industry partners and colleagues.
And so, in the spirit of collaboration for Global Meetings Industry Day 2025, we’re sharing 10 meaningful ways you can grow your impact and help shape the future of meetings.
New Jersey Teneo Event
1. Share Your Expertise
Write an article, mentor a peer, or speak at a panel and make a difference in someone’s career (and possibly their personal life). Whether you help others avoid making the same mistakes or provide the spark that ignites a new idea, your experience matters.
Teneo in Action:
Teneo’s President, Jamie Bruce, contributes regularly to Hotel Business Review. His strategic insight on topics like the new non-negotiables for today’s meeting planner provides actionable tips based on the knowledge gained from his 35-plus years of industry experience.
2. Engage in Industry Advocacy
Use your voice to spotlight the value of meetings. Support industry-wide initiatives like Global Meetings Industry Day and share why meetings matter with colleagues, partners, and policymakers.
Teneo in Action:
Teneo believes strongly in investing in the people of hospitality’s future. We sponsor the Aslanian Family Hospitality Management Scholarship and support the MPI Foundation, which provides grants for education, training, and research across the industry.
3. Strengthen Your Network
There’s power in belonging. Engaging in industry associations like Meeting Professionals International (MPI), Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), or Corporate Event Marketing Association (CEMA) helps build meaningful connections while staying ahead of emerging trends.
Teneo in Action:
Our sellers don’t just attend industry events — they lead. MPI Potomac named Chris Nord its Supplier of the Year, and Marieke Franz received Volunteer of the Year from MPI DFW for her outstanding commitment to the community. Gary Murakami serves as chair of the Advisory Board of Directors at CEMA.
4. Embrace Sustainability
Incorporating sustainable practices, from reducing waste to partnering with eco-conscious venues, can make your events more impactful and meaningful for attendees.
Teneo in Action:
Teneo’s Client Advisory Board encourages cost-effective ways to go green. At the same time, our hotel partners continue to lead the way with new, planet-friendly meeting and event options.
5. Learn From Each Other & Grow Your Network
Surround yourself with those who want to see you grow. Shared learning via formal mentorships or meet-ups for an informal conversation pushes our industry forward.
Teneo in Action:
Teneo’s Client Advisory Board unites top minds in meetings and hospitality to identify key trends and offer ideas to share on our blog, such as “6 Emerging Trends to Boost Event ROI”.
Washington D.C. Teneo Event
6. Support Community Initiatives
Give back in ways that bring people together. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities from food banks to local cleanups are powerful tools for team building, brand alignment, and community impact.
Teneo in Action:
Teneo’s own Kathie Giles, a Smart Meetings Stellar Performer, leads quarterly volunteer efforts. Tracey Lankford frequently volunteers at Ocean Cure’s Life Rolls On events to promote adaptive surfing for people living with various disabilities, and our networking events always include meaningful opportunities to support charitable causes.
7. Champion Diversity and Inclusion
Representation matters. Advocate for diverse speakers, ensure accessibility for all, and create inclusive environments where everyone feels welcome, safe, and heard.
Teneo in Action:
Teneo’s Gary Murakami actively advances DEI in the industry through leadership roles with the EIC Equity Task Force, MPI DE&I Advisory Committee, and more — helping to build a more inclusive future for meetings.
8. Invest in Education
Don’t fall behind by staying ahead of the latest tools and trends. Attend conferences and earn certifications — never lose your curiosity. A commitment to learning benefits your career and everyone you serve.
Teneo in Action:
Teneo hosts free monthly virtual showcases connecting planners with new destinations and hotel partners. At our in-person Teneo Summits, attendees earn education credits, hear from dynamic speakers, and participate in immersive learning experiences that drive professional growth.
9. Foster Meaningful Connections & Embrace Innovation
Create events that leave a lasting impression by balancing high-tech with high touch. Personalize experiences with new ideas and technologies, such as event apps and AI-driven matchmaking.
Teneo in Action:
Teneo’s signature strength lies in building real connections between planners and venues, hotels and clients, ideas and execution. We partner with innovative venues to give planners access to creative, future-focused event environments and group activations.
10. Where to Find Team Teneo on GMID 2025
Across the country, our team is celebrating Global Meetings Industry Day by showing up, giving back, and connecting with our community.
- Gary Murakami will host Teneo’s San Francisco Showcase Networking Event
- Kathie Giles is attending MPI’s San Diego Meeting at the Sea & Air Museum
- Justin Plank and Jon Robinson are tuning into MPI’s free GMID Broadcast
- Chris Nord will be at the PCMA Capital Chapter event
- Scott White, Marieke Franz, and Constanza Thornton will be connecting locally with venues, suppliers, and planners
Boston Teneo Event
Make Your Mark
On this Global Meetings Industry Day, take a step toward creating meaningful, lasting change in our industry. Give back, mentor others, or champion sustainability and inclusion — your contribution matters.
Need inspiration?
Connect with a member of the Teneo team to explore fresh ideas, build new relationships, and find the perfect venue to bring your next event to life. And don’t miss our companion piece, From Passion to Impact: Teneo Sellers Share Why Meetings Matter — a celebration of the people and personal stories driving our industry forward.
