Destination Marketing Association International Annual Convention Draws 1,500 to Minneapolis
August 9, 2016
The Destination Marketing Association International Annual Convention saw their attendee numbers rise, with 1,500 taking part in its recent event held Aug. 1-3 in Minneapolis.
Attendees spent the time engaging in general sessions, discipline-focused roundtables and networking.
Throughout the program, DMAI’s association and foundation leadership recognized and celebrated those whom have demonstrated commitment and promise towards the continued success of destination marketing worldwide.
This year, 42 industry representatives received their CDME certification; 18 DMOs were honored for their DMAP accreditation and reaccreditation; four industry leaders were inducted into the Hall of Fame, and the 2016 Class of 30 Under 30 was introduced.
Bob Lander, Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau president and CEO Emeritus, turned over the association’s board leadership role to Visit Newport Beach & Company President and CEO Gary C. Sherwin.
In his new role as DMAI Board Chairman, Sherwin will work alongside CEO Don Welsh and the global trade association's new executive team to transition the organization into a high-performing association focused on supporting its members.
Under Sherwin's leadership, he will spearhead a renewed focus on education, certification, accreditation and advocacy opportunities for DMAI members around the world.
“I am honored to represent our industry and advance educational opportunities for the association's members across the globe,” Sherwin said.
He added, “It’s a new day for DMAI as we work together to recognize and seize those opportunities that will bring value and collaboration across the industry. Today’s travelers are seeking unique destination experiences, which presents a promising opportunity for destination marketing organizations like never before.”
Welsh took the lead role earlier this year and after a turnover of several staff, key positions have been filled, as well as new initiatives have been instituted.
“It really is a new day at DMAI,” Welsh said. “I am honored, thrilled and humbled to represent this team and our industry. The entire DMAI team will continue to meet with, listen to and learn from our members and partners.”
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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