The RISE Awards feature seven awards in two categories: individual achievement and community achievement. Recipients are recognised for innovation, global transferability, impact, and influence within the industry, and will join the MPI Community of Honorees, a group composed of past MPI award winners and distinguished leaders.
“It brings me great joy to celebrate the 2025 RISE Award recipients! Their passion, hard work, and remarkable achievements not only inspire our community but also reflect the values that we strive to uphold every day in our industry,” said MPI’s International Board of Directors Chair, Rob Adams.
The RISE Award for Young Professional Achievement was presented to Jordan Lacey, MBA, CMP, a Project Manager, Tech Events at Capital One. Lacey seamlessly blends her expertise in event strategy and technology to create impactful and engaging experiences. Her contributions to MPI are deeply rooted in innovation. As a member of the MPI New Jersey Chapter, she played a pivotal role in enhancing the chapter’s social media and video strategy, leveraging her tech-savvy skills to elevate engagement and visibility. Beyond her professional achievements, Jordan is a changemaker in the community.
The RISE Award for Member of the Year was presented to Rafael Hernandez. As the founder of Grupo Latin America Meetings, Rafael has made significant contributions to the international business and meetings industry. TV. In 2013, he established the World Meetings Forum (WMF), a business platform connecting high-quality decision-makers with vendors, based on principles of culture, connections, closing, and purpose. In 2014, during the WMF, he proposed the Meeting Means Business Latin America Coalition and the Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID). He also founded and chairs the World Meetings Forum Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to including people with disabilities in the meetings industry. Since 2018, the foundation has included over 600 individuals in various events across Mexico, Latin America, and Europe.
The RISE Award for Meeting Industry Leadership was presented to JC York, a long-time MPI member and leader in the Tampa Bay Area Chapter. He guided the chapter through the pandemic and has held key roles across various committees, including the President’s Council. A committed volunteer, JC has supported The SEARCH Foundation since 2010, serving as Board Member and Director of Crisis Relief. He also helped overhaul an international awards program and has been widely recognised for his mentorship, advocacy, and service across industry associations.
The RISE Award for Innovative Educational Programming was presented to the MPI UK & Ireland Chapter for its “MPI Impacts Event” in Dublin. The event blended professional development with immersive experiences, including “The Dublin Dialogues”—six curated sessions held across the city. Attendees explored topics like leadership in an art gallery and mindfulness on a Viking settlement. With a 96% satisfaction rate, the event set a new standard for MPI programming by combining diversity, sustainability, and experiential learning in a replicable format.
“I am incredibly proud of our RISE Awards recipients for their exceptional achievements and dedication. Their work exemplifies the values and excellence that drive MPI and our industry forward. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition,” said MPI’s President and CEO, Paul Van Deventer.
The RISE Award for Marketplace Excellence was presented to the MPI New Jersey Chapter. The 2024 Golf Event, in its 26th year, is a key networking opportunity that connects planners and suppliers in a relaxed, outdoor setting. This annual event has evolved into a Signature Industry Favorite, fostering relationships among attendees. In 2024, the chapter introduced a mobile app to boost real-time engagement and added non-golf activities to include a broader audience. CSR partnerships with local organizations like First Tee Raritan Valley and the Food Bank of Northwest New Jersey strengthened community ties. The organizing committee prioritized attendee experience and developed a comprehensive event playbook to guide future teams. With 81% of participants indicating they would return, the event is now the chapter’s most successful fundraiser.
The RISE Award for Membership Achievement was presented to the Atlantic Canada Chapter. A Chapter Reimagined—A Legacy Redefined—the MPI Atlantic Chapter has undergone a bold transformation, emerging as a powerhouse of innovation, inclusivity, and impact. To start, the chapter created opportunities for new members. Their Student Scholarship Program eliminated financial obstacles, welcoming the next generation of industry leaders. Key initiatives included a Student Scholarship Program to reduce financial barriers and an Inclusive Leadership Initiative that welcomed non-members into board roles. Events such as Drag Queen Bingo fostered community while raising vital funds. The chapter expanded programming beyond Halifax and provided education on AI, risk management, and anti-human trafficking.
The RISE Award for Social Impact was presented to the Ottawa Chapter. he Ottawa Chapter was recognized for its longstanding Charity Auction & Dinner, which has raised over $300,000 for local charities over the past 15 years. The event brings together industry professionals to support causes like mental health, education, and food security. It thrives on donations from members, suppliers, and partners, showcasing the power of collaboration. More than just a fundraiser, the event promotes education and awareness around social issues, inspiring others in the industry to embed purpose into their work. Its evolving and inclusive format continues to set a benchmark for community impact across the MPI network.
