Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1539265
B M & T ••• September/October 2025 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 7 community engagement, and cultural vibrancy across the des- tination. Alpha Kappa Alpha's South Atlantic Regional Conference was proof that when a destination commits to inclusion through action, not just slogans, everyone benefits. From curated experiences to warm welcomes, Tampa Bay posi- tioned itself not only as a capable host but as a genuine part- ner. And in the increasingly competitive world of meetings and conventions, that kind of partnership is priceless. MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER EARNS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD FOR OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE IAVM's Venue Excellence Award Recognizes the MCC's Standout Staff, Safety, Service and Event Execution The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) has been rec- ognized as one of North America's best-managed venues, earning a 2025 Venue Excellence Award by the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM). One of the highest honors in the industry, the award recognizes the MCC's out- standing achievements in operational excellence, safety and security, professional development, and community service. The MCC is one of only five venues to receive this year's pres- tigious recognition. "This industry honor is a direct result of the passion, pro- fessionalism and dedication of our incredible team," said Jeff Johnson, Executive Director of the MCC. "Every day, our staff brings their best to create meaningful and memorable experiences for our clients, guests and community. From oper- ations and security to sales, guest services and sustainability, every member of our team helped earn this award – it truly belongs to them." In 2024, nearly 200 events at the MCC and more than 719,000 attendees helped sustain over 10,000 tourism and hos- pitality jobs in the community. In addition, the MCC generat- ed an estimated economic activity of $523 million for the city of Minneapolis in 2024 and helped generate over $26 million in local tax revenue. The MCC award submission highlighted several areas of success: • Operations: The MCC staff delivered seamless event exe- cution through cross-departmental collaboration, real-time client support, and continuous process improvement, result- ing in consistently strong client satisfaction. • Safety and Security: In 2024, the MCC recorded zero OSHA incidents across nearly 300,000 work hours. The staff was also supported by renewed law enforcement partner- ships, real-time emergency response tools, and comprehensive staff training, including human trafficking awareness. • Professional Development: The MCC demonstrated a continued committed to the development of its staff through hands-on training, entry-level career pathways, long-running internship programs, cultural awareness education, equitable hiring practices, and national certification opportunities. • Service to the Community: Through food recovery, rental grants, educational tours and hands-on philanthropy, the MCC supported local nonprofits, students and the greater Minneapolis community. In addition, the MCC remained an industry leader in environmental stewardship, powered by 100% renewable energy, a 60% recycling rate and a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 85% since 2008. This marks the third time the MCC has received this indus- try-leading award, previously winning in 2014 and 2018. The 2025 award winners were formally honored during IAVM's 100th VenueConnect Annual Conference and Trade Show held July 28-31 in New Orleans. For more information on the MCC, visit www.minneapolis- conventioncenter.com. ABOUT THE MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) is owned by the City of Minneapolis and marketed through Meet Minneapolis. The 1.6 million square foot facility features 475,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 3,400 fixed-seat audito- rium, 87 meeting rooms and two ballrooms. The MCC is GBAC STAR, LEED, SITES and GMIC certified and works to serve its constituencies and stakeholders as the face of Minneapolis to visitors.