I first heard about MPI from George Kong who was tabling for the student chapter (MPI Knights) at the Rosen College of Hospitality Management. I attended a meet and greet and joined the association but didn’t become involved or go to any events as a student member. Honestly, I didn’t realize the potential of it all.

Fast forward to my first job after graduation. I’m maybe a week in and am told that I’m attending the SEC Conference. I was nervous. Not only did I not know anyone there, but I barely knew what I was doing at my new job. SEC was in Orlando that year and I was somehow recruited to helping the Education Committee and Alyson McCoy by introducing speakers. (PS: I called my boss on day one and told her I LOVED the conference experience.)

Volunteering at SEC led to me serving on the MPI Orlando Education Committee where I later became the CIC Liaison responsible for making sure our education events were approved for CEUs. Everyone I met at the chapter was inspiring and welcoming – great for a sponge like me! I was then asked to volunteer on the Special Projects Committee and ended up doing so for three years. Besides the amazing events, the creative volunteers and the talented vendors, this volunteer position helped me connect with Kevin Kirby. The words of wisdom he gave me one evening has made him the most memorable connection to date.

I’ve now joined the Membership Committee and am serving my 3rd term on the Board of Directors as the Director of Member Care. My favorite thing has become connecting people. I’m passionate about the industry, MPI and our chapter. #IAmMPI

Selina Christine Mullenax