The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) was founded in 1956, allowing healthcare association executives to mingle and network. Later, PCMA broadened its horizons and opened its doors to meeting professionals of all levels including students, suppliers and faculty, offering not only networking but educational opportunities as well. Today, the organization still serves a large number of executive and meeting professional members in the health-care sector.
Members of PCMA, aside from students and faculty, generally are divided into two groups: Professionals and Suppliers. Professionals are those in charge of selecting convention space and overseeing seminars, exhibits and overall operation. Suppliers include those who provide services or products for the operation of conventions and expos.
PCMA’s main educational event is its yearly meeting, Convening Leaders. Thousands of attendees come together in January to take advantage of educational sessions and networking events.
Another major contribution PCMA makes to the meeting and event industry is funding provided by its Education Foundation. By committing to grants for scholarships, educational instruction, and research for advancement, the foundation fuels the development of future meetings and events.
Deborah Sexton is president and CEO of PCMA; she also heads the foundation. She has received multiple industry awards and has an extensive background in tourism, sales, and event management.
Thirty years after PCMA’s launch, it introduced its print magazine, Convene. The publication is a key resource for professionals in the industry, offering educational information and professional development content.
Headquartered in Chicago, PCMA counts 17 chapters in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, plus student chapters. The organization represents more than 6,500 members. If you are interested in becoming a member or learning more about the organization, visit www.pcma.org or call (312) 423-7262.
