Jacqueline Russo Named 2016 IAEE Woman of Achievement Award Honoree
April 7, 2016
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events™ proudly congratulates Jacqueline Russo, vice president of Kuehne + Nagel, Inc., as this year’s recipient of the IAEE Woman of Achievement Award.
This award recognizes a woman who has led the way in the advancement of women in the exhibitions and events industry, exhibited outstanding leadership, and made significant contributions to the industry and her community.
With more than 20 years of experience in the exhibitions and events industry, Russo has been a dynamic leader within IAEE. Her dedication marked her as the first supplier member to serve as chairperson of the IAEE Board of Directors.
She speaks regularly to industry groups about the international freight forwarding and customs clearances and the value of the face-to-face business model. She has served as a mentor to other women within the industry, and is well known both nationally and internationally as an asset to the exhibitions and events community.
“Jackie is a shining example of professionalism and dedication,” said IAEE Executive Vice President and COO Cathy Breden, CAE, CMP.
She added, “She has contributed to so many IAEE committees and initiatives over the past 20 years, and served as a mentor and friend to so many colleagues; it is a pleasure to see her recognized for the woman of achievement that she truly is.”
The award presentation will take place at the IAEE Women’s Leadership Forum, on tap April 26 in Washington, D.C.
This program focuses on topics that are unique to women in the exhibitions and events industry, and is tailored for all women regardless of age, individual situation or current position held within their company.
The forum will provide knowledge and strategies for attendees to succeed in their current positions, as well as motivation and inspiration to take their career to the next level. This year’s program currently is sold out but a waiting list is available for those interested in attending.
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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