MPI Executive and Leadership Team

Hank Foresta, the Chief Executive Officer at MPI, directs the organization's strategic vision and operational execution. Foresta oversees all facets of MPI's mission, ensuring the delivery of comprehensive education and valuable networking opportunities to its global membership. This leadership role involves driving initiatives that enhance business exchanges and foster professional growth within the meeting and event industry. By focusing on member engagement and industry advancement, Hank Foresta strengthens MPI's position as a leading professional association. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses strategic partnerships and the cultivation of an environment conducive to innovation and collaboration across all organizational departments. Foresta's leadership ensures alignment with the association's core objectives, promoting a robust future for the industry.

Michael Stein, the President & Chief Executive Officer at MPI, guides the association's overarching strategy and operational framework. Stein is responsible for advancing MPI's commitment to providing premier education and networking platforms for professionals in the meeting and event sector. This executive position involves cultivating key relationships and driving growth initiatives that expand the organization's reach and impact. By focusing on member value and industry relevance, Michael Stein ensures MPI remains at the forefront of professional development. The President & Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include fostering a culture of excellence and innovation, directly influencing the association's ability to adapt to evolving industry demands. Stein's strategic direction supports the continuous enhancement of business exchanges and professional opportunities for all members.

Paul Van Deventer, the President & Chief Executive Officer at MPI, leads the strategic direction and operational management of the global association. Van Deventer is dedicated to enhancing the value proposition for members through advanced education, robust networking, and impactful business exchanges. This critical role involves steering the organization towards sustained growth and industry leadership. By championing innovation and member-centric initiatives, Paul Van Deventer ensures MPI effectively serves the evolving needs of the meeting and event professionals worldwide. The President & Chief Executive Officer's oversight extends to fostering strategic alliances and driving programs that elevate the profession. Van Deventer's leadership solidifies MPI's commitment to professional development and industry advancement.

Gary Keranen, the Chief Financial Officer at MPI, directs all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the association. Keranen manages budgeting, financial reporting, and investment strategies to ensure the organization's fiscal health and sustainability. This executive function involves safeguarding assets and optimizing financial performance to support MPI's educational and networking initiatives. By maintaining rigorous financial oversight, Gary Keranen enables the association to expand its services and reach. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include developing financial models that support long-term growth and operational efficiency. Keranen's expertise ensures that financial resources are allocated effectively to advance the meeting and event industry.

Kara Bishop, the President Elect at MPI, prepares to assume leadership responsibilities, focusing on strategic initiatives and organizational development. Bishop actively engages with current leadership to understand and contribute to the association's mission of advancing the meeting and event industry through education and networking. This preparatory role involves gaining deep insight into operational strategies and member engagement programs. By collaborating with existing executives, Kara Bishop ensures a smooth transition and continuity of vision. The President Elect's focus includes identifying future opportunities for growth and innovation within MPI. Bishop's involvement strengthens the association's long-term planning and commitment to its membership.

Richard Howard, the President at MPI, directs key initiatives aimed at enhancing the association's educational offerings and networking platforms. Howard focuses on fostering strategic partnerships and expanding the reach of MPI's business exchange opportunities globally. This leadership role involves driving programs that support professional development and industry advancement for meeting and event professionals. By championing member-centric strategies, Richard Howard ensures MPI remains a vital resource. The President's responsibilities include overseeing specific strategic projects and contributing to the overall governance of the association. Howard's leadership reinforces MPI's commitment to excellence and innovation within the industry.

Sarah Farrell, the Immediate President, Middle Pennsylvania Chapter at MPI, leads the regional chapter's operations and member engagement efforts. Farrell focuses on delivering localized educational programs and networking events that cater to the specific needs of members within the Middle Pennsylvania region. This chapter leadership role is vital for extending MPI's mission at a grassroots level. By fostering a strong local community, Sarah Farrell enhances member value and professional development opportunities. The Immediate President's responsibilities include driving chapter growth and ensuring alignment with the broader organizational objectives of MPI. Farrell's dedication strengthens the association's presence and impact within the region.

Viveca McDonald, the President Elect at MPI, actively prepares for future leadership, concentrating on strategic planning and organizational continuity. McDonald collaborates closely with current leadership to understand and advance MPI's core mission of providing education and networking for the meeting and event industry. This role involves deep immersion in the association's operational frameworks and strategic priorities. By contributing to forward-thinking initiatives, Viveca McDonald ensures a seamless transition and sustained momentum for MPI. The President Elect's focus includes identifying emerging trends and opportunities to enhance member value. McDonald's engagement supports MPI's ongoing commitment to industry excellence.

Tracey Wallach, the Immediate President at MPI, guides the chapter's strategic direction and operational execution, focusing on member engagement and professional development. Wallach oversees the delivery of educational content and networking opportunities tailored to the local membership base. This leadership position is crucial for strengthening MPI's regional presence and impact. By fostering a vibrant chapter community, Tracey Wallach enhances the value proposition for professionals in the meeting and event sector. The Immediate President's responsibilities include driving chapter initiatives and ensuring alignment with the association's global objectives. Wallach's leadership supports the continued growth and success of MPI's regional chapters.

Michael Crumrine, the Chief Administrative Officer at MPI, oversees the essential administrative functions that support the association's operational effectiveness. Crumrine manages human resources, IT infrastructure, and general operational logistics, ensuring a seamless environment for staff and members. This leadership position is crucial for maintaining organizational efficiency and facilitating the delivery of MPI's core services. By streamlining administrative processes, Michael Crumrine enhances the association's capacity to provide education and networking opportunities. The Chief Administrative Officer's purview includes developing policies and procedures that promote a productive and compliant workplace. Crumrine's dedication ensures that MPI operates with optimal efficiency and organizational integrity.