Briefly state what your job entails.
I am the executive director for the FBINCAAA. I develop concepts for committees (leadership course development, disaster response) and work with FBINCAAA vendors on awards and FBINCAAA products (shirts, hats, pins, challenge coins). I organize the FBINCAAA executive committee and board meetings, as well as moderate those meetings. I work with the vice president, conferences, on issues related to past, present and future conferences.
What type of meeting did you hold in Birmingham?
It was our 2016 FBINCAAA Leadership Conference, which is held annually in a different city.
Was anyone particularly helpful in executing your event?
Don Lupo, president of our Birmingham chapter. Also, Steve Pierson at the Greater Birmingham CVB, and Brian McGee and Alex Abenoja with Westin Birmingham and Sheraton Birmingham.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most about Birmingham?
We had 250 attendees from 49 states attending this convention. Everything in Birmingham was wonderful: great Southern hospitality, world-class Southern cooking, great local golf courses, exceptional hotel rooms, magnificent meeting rooms and committed hotel staff.
Are there any experiences you would recommend for groups meeting in Birmingham?
Visit 16th Street Baptist Church and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.
Did you have a sports or recreation event during the meeting?
Porsche Hot Laps at Barber Motorsports Park.
How does Birmingham compare to other cities where you have hosted meetings?
This was the best one we have ever had. It was well-planned and fast-paced with sufficient time to both attend lectures and workshops and enjoy the sights and sounds of Birmingham, including museums, parks and nightlife.
Would you return/recommend it to other meeting planners?
Yes, without hesitation. Wonderful city, great people, terrific attractions, excellent food.