Organization takes bold step into the future with name change and new leadership
Newly elected Chairman, Jason Dunn Sr.
Alexandra, VA — For the first time, the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals, formally National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners, has selected a board chairman that is not a convention planner to lead the organization. Jason Dunn, Group Vice President of Diversity Sales and Inclusion at the Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau, was elected Chairman of the Board during the 36th Annual NCBMP Convention in New Orleans.“I’m very proud of Jason and all that he has accomplished within the industry thus far,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, Destination DC. “NCBMP will flourish in the leadership that he has exemplified over the years as a member of the board and will continue to showcase in his new position as chairman. I look forward to my continued work with Jason as we both advocate for diversity and inclusion in the industry, specifically as it ties to my efforts as the chair of the U.S. Travel Association.”
“I am honored to represent the meetings industry in this role,” Dunn said. “We have made tremendous strides in ensuring that there is equity and inclusion within the meetings industry as we lead the national conversation with data. My vision for the NCBMP stems largely from changing demographic trends in the U.S. and a desire to educate the hospitality industry on the importance of diversity in all aspects.” Nielsen’s 2019 Diverse Intelligence Series reports that African Americans represent $1.3 trillion in spending power, and studies show that the majority of new U.S. travelers will be people of color and of varying nationalities.
“These demographic shifts heighten the importance of examining how cities are creating welcoming environments for diverse travelers and the hiring of black professionals,” Dunn continued. “We still have a lot to do, and I am confident that we will continue to be trendsetters, elevate our members, and pursue the objectives of our founders.”
The NCBMP is a non-profit organization dedicated to elevating hospitality professionals, meeting planners and association executives within the tourism industry. “NCBMP is focused on the development of our members through relevant educational sessions and vibrant programming that spark innovation. We offer a unique and authentic engagement opportunity via our membership that can’t be replicated anywhere in the industry,” said Marlinda Henry President NCBMP & National Convention Director for Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship.
Under Dunn’s leadership, the NCBMP Board is broadening the strategy of the organization to include not only meeting planners but all Black professionals in the hospitality industry. This shift is a part of an organizational effort to increase and strengthen national dialogues around the importance of a diverse workforce, inclusive marketing strategies, and innovative ways to attract black visitors and retain Black professionals.
About the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals
The National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (Formally National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners), founded in 1983, is a non-profit organization dedicated primarily to the training needs of African American meeting professionals. For more information visit NCBMP.com.
PRESS CONTACT:
National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals
info@ncbmp.com
571-366-1779
504-394-2101