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B M & T ••• September/October ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 11 L O C A L H E R O E xplore St. Louis, the official destination marketing organization responsible for promoting places and events in the St. Louis region, is pleased to announce that Kathleen "Kitty" Ratcliffe, President, Explore St. Louis and America's Center Convention Complex, was lauded by colleagues from around the world at the 2023 Meeting Professionals International (MPI) President's Dinner on June 14, 2023, at Tulum Riviera Maya for her exceptional leadership and contribu- tions to the convention and tourism industry. "This is a full-circle moment for me. MPI was one of the first organizations I joined when starting in the meeting and event industry. Throughout the years, they have provided me with incredible leadership opportunities. Now we are working together to showcase St. Louis during MPI WEC in 2025 which will be held at the enhanced and expanded America's Center," said Ratcliffe. "I'm grateful for our work together through the years to advance our industry. It is very meaningful to receive this honor from MPI." Characteristics considered by MPI when selecting Kitty Ratcliffe as the 12th annual honoree, include: • Strong engagement and support of MPI throughout their career, both at Chapter and International level • History of volunteer service with MPI and other non-profit organizations • History of driving innovation and change in the business events industry • Visibility across the industry • Personal traits, such as leadership, integrity, and trusted role model "It's a thrill to recognize Kitty Ratcliffe as our 2023 MPI President's Dinner Honoree," said Paul Van Deventer, President & CEO of MPI. "Kitty has long been a champion for this industry and MPI, serving as a passionate volunteer, advocate for sustainability, leader, and mentor. As we look to the future, we are excited to partner with Explore St. Louis for WEC in 2025 and look forward to the amazing experiences the city has to offer." ABOUT MPI Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is the largest and most vibrant global meeting and event industry association. Founded in 1972, the organization provides innovative and relevant education, networking opportunities, and business exchanges, and acts as a prominent voice for the promotion and growth of the industry. MPI membership is comprised of approximately 18,500 members belonging to more than 80 chapters and clubs in 22 countries. ABOUT EXPLORE ST. LOUIS Explore St. Louis is the driving force behind St. Louis' $5.9 billion convention and tourism industry, the official destination mar- keting organization of St. Louis City and County, and the operator of The America's Center Convention Complex and The Dome. KATHLEEN "KITTY" RATCLIFFE HONORED WITH INTERNATIONAL AWARD Event Celebrated Ratcliffe's Exceptional Leadership And Contributions To The Tourism Industry