?? CONGRATULATIONS ??
MPI Member - Kelly Truitt CMP, DMCP, M.S. director of sales, Terramar, a DMC Network Company
For being awarded the the 2025 SMART WOMEN IN MEETINGS: RISING STAR ??
Celebrated on September 12, 2025 at JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
In her own words...
What are the three words that define your legacy?
Young. Women. Future. I knew from a young age that I wanted to be in this industry. While women make up the majority of our workforce, leadership is still dominated by men, and younger professionals—especially women—often struggle to be taken seriously. I’m committed to climbing the ladder and making space for young women at the top so they are seen, heard, and valued from day one.
How do you see the events community evolving?
The events industry has become more entrepreneurial, with many planners launching independent businesses post-COVID. While this has fostered innovation, I foresee a wave of consolidation as planners either scale up or transition out. Women have taken bold steps as small business owners, but we need them at the head of major companies, shaping the future at the highest levels. Our industry is shifting, and I look forward to seeing more diverse leaders at decision-making tables, ensuring our workforce is represented where it matters most.
What could future generations of leaders learn from your journey?
Start from the ground up. While entry-level roles may not be glamorous, they teach the skills that make future leadership easier. I began as an admin—despite having a degree—and it gave me a deeper understanding of every aspect of the job. No one wants a boss who skipped the hard parts.
I also hope future leaders embrace collaboration over competition. This industry is built on relationships, and today’s competitors are often tomorrow’s colleagues, partners, and friends. The industry is small, and everything comes full circle. Success isn’t just about climbing higher—it’s about lifting others with you.