Visitors Bureau Director of Sales Wins MPI-Carolinas Legacy Award

Charleston, SC (June 5, 2007) – The Carolinas Chapter of Meeting Professionals International paid respect to some of its own at its recent annual awards dinner at the Marriott in Charleston, South Carolina on May 21, 2007.

Linda Ekeland, Director of Sales with the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau was honored with the 2006-2007 Legacy Award, which recognizes and rewards a member who exemplifies excellence and enduring service to the Carolinas Chapter. The Legacy Award is evaluated in the areas of MPI service; Chapter and International participation; and industry contributions such as professional career advancement and professional recognition.

Ekeland began her career as an assistant director of sales at the Sheraton University Center in Durham in 1998. The position led to a regional sales management position with Thomas Cook Travel and work with Great Lakes Aviation/Midway Express Airlines at RDU Airport. In 1999, she joined the Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau as director of sales. In her current position, Ekeland generates leads and originates bookings for Orange County’s $127-million hospitality industry.

MPI Carolinas Chapter, established in 1984, offers education, the latest research and trends, leadership training, best practices, professional development and networking opportunities, which help its members enhance their professional value and define the strategic value of meetings within their respective organizations.

Founded in 1972, Meeting Professionals International—with nearly 20,000 members in 60 countries with 60 chapters (and four in formation)—is the leading global community committed to shaping and defining the future of the meeting and event industry.


Did You Know?

UNC was the first state-supported university in the U.S. and enrolls nearly 30,000 students from all North Carolina counties, all U.S. states and more than 100 foreign countries.