The annual RISE Awards, an inspiring event Recognizing Industry Success and Excellence, took place after Sunday's Opening General Session. MPI presented the RISE Awards for achievements made by individuals, MPI communities and organizations during a packed lunch.

Congratulations to winners of the 2012 RISE Awards (left to right): Jason Carroll, director of sales and events for the Florida Aquarium (accepting for the MPI Tampa Bay Area Chapter); Amanda Cecil, Ph.D., assistant professor at Indiana University; Ray Bloom, CMM, chairman of the IMEX Group; Melanie Clifford, director of sales for Dancing Bear Lodge (accepting for the MPI Tennessee Chapter); Jillian Schroeder, event coordinator for Midwest Horse Fair; and Alise Long, manager or corporate events and meetings for (and accepting for) Royal DSM.