About ISES

»What is ISES
»Board Information
»Current List of Chapter Members
»Chapter History
    International Chapter of the Year
»Chapter Mission Statement
»Chapter Policies
»Chapter Goals
»Involvement


What is ISES
The International Special Events Society is comprised of over 5,600 professionals associated among 41 chapters in 37 countries around the world who work in the special events industry as event planners, caterers, decorators, florists, destination management companies, rental and production companies, tent suppliers, audio-visual technicians, party and convention coordinators, hotel and convention managers, entertainers and much more. ISES provides education and networking to its members to promote professionalism in the special events industry.

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Board of Directors:
The board of directors determines the overall path for the local chapter using information gathered from our general membership. Made up of six officers and seven directors, the elected board provides you with the opportunity to directly impact the future of ISES Minneapolis-St. Paul. For more information, contact Jim Leighton, President and Nominating Committee Chair. Go to Involvement

2007-2008 Board Information
	President Jim Leighton 952-224-8484 office jim@ises-msp.org   Job Title:President Company: Dir of Events,  Children's Cancer Research Fund Years in event industry: 7 ½ Other positions held in ISES: > President-Elect, 2006-2007 > Vice President of Education & Programs, 2005-2006 > Vice President of Membership, 2004-2005 > Director of Membership, 2003-2004 As President, I oversee the day-to-day governance of the Chapter. I act as a resource and advisor to the Board of Directors and our chapter members. I work closely with International headquarters and the Midwest Regional Vice President to insure that the Chapter stays in compliance with our by-laws and that we take advantage of all the resources provided by International. When I started in the nonprofit events industry I saw the opportunity to both plan events as well as make a difference in the World. After 7 ½ years this has proven to be more than true. I consider myself fortunate that I can go to a job everyday that I love. Four years ago I started to hear about this group called ISES and I thought I should get involved. I attended my first program in December of 2003 and by January I had signed on to be a member. I realized that this was an opportunity for me to grow both personally and professionally and by July of 2004 I had been elected to my first term on the Board of Directors. Being involved on the Board of ISES has provided me valuable leadership training and has proved to be one of the best career decisions I have made. It has given me great connections in the local as well as national events industry. I have been able to develop a network of event professionals all over the globe that I know maintain the same level of ethics and dedication to the industry that I value. A great example of this network in action occurred last year when I was put in a situation of re-negotiating a contract after [italics] the event had taken place. For a variety of reasons the F & B minimum was not met. This was going to result in a very sizeable financial penalty to the organization. I solicited the help of my ISES network and through their input was able to negotiate a significantly lower penalty owed. I feel very strongly that it was my involvement with ISES that allowed me access to this group of professionals. I am looking forward to continuing my ISES journey as Chapter President this next year. It is my goal to convey the value of ISES to all our members as well as the Twin Cities events industry at large. Thank you for this great opportunity!
	President-Elect Lisa Marie Borchert 763-765-6986 office lisa@ises-msp.org   Company: Meeting Planner, Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America Years in event industry: 12 Other positions held in ISES: > Vice President of Communications, 2006-2007 > Director of Education & Programs, 2004-2006 > Nominating Committee, 2003-2004   As the President-Elect I also act as the treasurer for the Chapter. Please contact me with any questions regarding payments for the monthly programs. I joined ISES after attendance-sampling a few programs and became an official member in 2002. I have found that since I got actively involved in ISES the 'ROI' of my membership has gone up exponentially. My participation in the organization has allowed me to strengthen relationships/networking and stay on top of trends. This in turn has allowed me to continue to be a valuable resource to my internal clients and colleagues. One of my favorite events was in Hawaii where a hot plated meal was served for 4,000, OUTSIDE, and then guests were moved in less than 30 minutes using a fleet of 60+ buses pulled inside the Convention Center. That's what I love best about events, sitting back and watching all your planning magically unfold to the guests' delight. I have also worked with such clients as Sprint PCS where, during the Final Four, where they took the CEOs and a group of 40 top customers formation flying in a B25 bomber and then let them take the reigns of dual contract aircraft. A couple other highlights include managing a cross country AIDS bike ride that went from Los Angeles to Atlanta and up the Eastern Seaboard to Boston in '94, being one of four national nominees for Support Professional of the Year by Event Solutions magazine in '01, working as a Staff Coordinator for the Olympic Family Hotel for a month during the Salt Lake City games in '02, being a winner of Team of the Month at Allianz for our incentive program to the Bahamas in Feb '04 and most recently, being a member of the Corporate Marketing and Communications team to win Allianz's Partnership and Innovation Award for 2005-2006.
	Immediate Past President Kate Stahl, CSEP 612-844-3374 office kate@ises-msp.org   Company: Manager of Corporate and Leadership Events Years in event industry:15 Other positions held in ISES: > Member of the International Certification Committee, 2007-2008 > President, 2006-2007 > President-Elect, 2005-2006 > Member of the International Conference Education Committee, 2005-2006 > Vice President of Communications, 2003-2005 > Marketing Director for CPD, 2003   As the Immediate Past President on the local MSP board, I am responsible for overseeing the Leadership & Educational Merit Scholarship program for Eventworld as well as the Partner of the Year program. Additionally, as a member of the International Certification Committee, I oversee and promote the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) credentialing program. I'm constantly inspired by the events I attend through ISES and the people I meet at ISES events. I've taken ideas gleaned from these events/people and transformed a tired "Christmas Lunch" into a popular, dynamic Christmas Reception that is the talk of our company each December. I've also tried to do this for countless other events I plan.
	Vice President of Communications Ryan Hanson 612-436-4522 office ryan@ises-msp.org   Company: Creative Director, MENTTIUM Corporation  Years in event industry: 4 Other positions held in ISES: > Member of the International MARCOM Committee, 2007-2008 > Vice President of Membership, 2006-2007 > Star Awards Committee, Marketing Chair, 2007 > Star Awards Committee, 2005 and 2006 > CommitteeMember in Strategic Partnerships Working with Cara and Chrissy, my role on the board this year is to oversee the chapters Marketing and Communications. This includes membership updates and communications, the chapter’s website and working on strengthening the ISES Minneapolis-St. Paul chapter’s presence in the media/press. In addition, I will serve on the International ISES MARCOM committee in 2007-2008. I discovered the event industry through a myriad of opportunities in college which lead me to event work in London and New York, before returning to Minneapolis. A theater kid at heart, and as one who revels in ‘the experience,’ for me, events are about utilizing the characters of our business - food, lighting, video, décor, flowers and more - to craft a client’s story. That is the art and the joy of what he gets to do everyday; it is the theater of our business. The most fantastic part of being a member of ISES is the community you are a part of. This is a great networking opportunity, not just locally, but globally. In 2005, I was able to connect at ISES's Eventworld conference with top planners from around the country. Together with one of these planners, I co-led a conference session at the 2006 ISES conference. These connections also lead to partnerships on my events that occur outside of the Minneapolis-St. Paul market. As a planner who has to produce events nationally, through the people I meet at these conferences, I am able to resource the services I need and find quality vendors in any city we travel to. All I have to do is mention my ISES membership and the connection works! Simultaneously, as a planner who constantly wants to push myself - I love being part of this organization because you get to know and see what is happening elsewhere in the industry - learn the trends and then try to create and build upon them in my events. Without ISES I wouldn't know where to begin finding a network like this!
	Vice President of Education & Programs Pete Nelson 952-244-8558 office pete@ises-msp.org Company: Creative Director/Floral Manager, Design Group Years in event industry: 12 Other positions held in ISES: > Star Awards Committee, Decor Chair 2006-2007 > Director at Large Las Vegas Chapter 2002-2004 I am responsible for planning the monthly ISES program. I’m looking forward to getting to know new event locations as well as trying to get more members involved in the entire ‘look’ and ‘feel’ of each event. These monthly programs are an excellent opportunity to get involved and showcase your products or talents whether it be décor, services, venues, catering, or any other aspect of event planning. Education is a huge part of these programs and I will try to give ISES members a wide array of information regarding all aspects of the events industry. I encourage anyone who wants to get involved in any of the monthly programs to get a hold of me. I wouldn’t be where I’m at today if it wasn’t for joining ISES. Working for a national company that designs events across the globe has given me the opportunity to really use ISES as a tool in my daily work life. Every major city has an ISES chapter which allows me to find vendors and services wherever I am in the country. Being that they are ISES members also gives me the reassurance that they are a reputable vendor who has a true passion and dedication to the event industry. ISES has also helped me get to know the event community, especially when I made the move to Las Vegas. Not knowing a soul down there, I quickly met the elite in the event world after joining ISES and becoming a board member. They not only became great allies for work but also became some of my closest friends. The same goes for the Minneapolis chapter. Because of ISES I have been involved in many incredible events such as the Special Event in Las Vegas, American Heart Association, the MN Star Awards and countless other programs.
	Vice President of Membership Meghan Jager 218-786-2340 office meghan@ises-msp.org Company: Event Coordinator, SMDC Health System Years in event industry: 7 As the Vice President of Membership, I am here in a sense to act like your sister - the one you always wanted or never had, not like the annoying one that would hang out in your room when your friends were over or told mom you threw a wild party while she was out of town. No, my role in the organization is to look after all members’ well-being and happiness. I want you to feel you can come to me with you comments, concerns, victories and new ideas. I am here for you and am willing to talk anytime. Be it questions about ISES, ideas about a meeting, willingness to be more involved or you just need a ride home from a late night party, (just kidding I live in Duluth), I welcome all conversations. As a board member of ISES, I want you to continue to throwing those wild parties but just be sure that I am invited. Being an event coordinator in Duluth, I come across some limitations being removed from the Metro area and at times feel as if I am the last to know about event’s latest and greatest ideas. But since I have become a member of ISES, I feel inspired and refreshed and continue to “wow” my clients with new and fresh ideas. I have made unbelievable contacts that I utilize in my area and can call on whim for help or advise. Being a member of ISES has opened up so many opportunities and continues to broaden my creativity options for events. My experience with ISES has not only been eye opening and fun, but I have also met so many supportive people within this industry. It is always comforting to chat with others that can relate to all the hard work and heart you put into an event and how we really do make it look easier than it is. As your 'sister', I can relate to that nightmare event you had but learned so much from, those late nights you spent setting up just to make sure everything was perfect for your client and the bliss of pulling off a party that people are still talking about.
	Director of Administration Erika LaDousa 952-858-8500 office erika@ises-msp.org Company: Director of Catering, Embassy Suites Hotels, Bloomington Years in event industry: 6 I am responsible for the recording and monthly distribution of the board minutes, maintaining chapter history, handling all correspondence for ISES members, meetings and programs. People should come to me with personal updates such as birth of a new child, loss of a family member or professional and personal milestones. Becoming a member of ISES was the best move I could have made as someone in the special events industry. It allows me to keep abreast of all of the latest trends and interests of groups, as well as networking with some of the best of the best in the industry. I have built some great relationships, both business related and personal, through ISES, which is something I would never have gotten anywhere else. Through the monthly meetings, I am able to increase my knowledge of so many different aspects of the industry and it allows me to bring this back to my company and help educate the rest of my peers.
	Director of Communications - Newsletter & Website Cara Schulz 507-289-6556 office cara@ises-msp.org   Company: National Sales Manager, Corporate EVENT Magazine  Years in event industry: 3 Other positions held in ISES:  > Director of Communications - Newsletter & Website, 2006-2007   I am responsible for creating and sending out the email Newsletter. I am always open to new ideas as to what to include in the Newsletter and for people to submit stories.   Being involved with ISES has really opened my eyes to a new segment of the events industry. Through attending monthly meetings, talking with members, and going to the Eventworld conference I have gained valuable information and contacts that has saved our company time and money. Our publication's association with ISES provides us with story ideas, trending information, and new business.
	Director of Communications - Media & Marketing Chrissy Mages 763-531-5069 office cmages@ises-msp.org Company: Special Events Manager, St. Therese Foundation Years in event industry: 5 My position is responsible for composing and distributing media alerts/releases and maintaining contact with the media regarding the chapter and its members. I’m constantly meeting ISES members with interesting ideas and talents that enhance the work I do; however, it’s often the speakers who bring excitement back into my work, introducing a new concept or trend or simply reinstating an existing one. Kevin White, who spoke at the February 2007 program on innovation in one’s work culture, reminded me to always take my events to the next level and also provided valuable insight that I later shared with my fundraising team—the knowledge wasn’t only valuable to event planners. There are a number of other programs I have benefited from in similar ways. As an event planner for a nonprofit, I work on a tight budget but still want to provide the most memorable experience to attendees. ISES provides networking opportunities to establish unique (and mutually beneficial) partnerships with local vendors. And, even though I don’t have a monster budget, ISES helps me stay current on fabulous trends, which I can then creatively alter to suit my particular need and budget.
	Director of Education & Programs Matthew Trettel 763-529-1900 office matthew@ises-msp.org Company: General Manager & Creative Director, Twin City Bridal Association Years in event industry: 10 I work with Pete Nelson in planning and implementing monthly programs. This includes the logistical details of coordinating speakers and developing content as well as working to create the overall look of each month's program. Please contact us if you would like to contribute as a sponsor to any of the programs. Each month we will be looking for venues, catering, décor, etc. We are excited to showcase the talents of fellow ISES members as part of our monthly programs. I think that continued education benefits not only myself personally by heightening my knowledge, but it also allows me to disseminate the information I learn and the ideas that it generates to a wider audience, both the suppliers and the consumers in the wedding market. The biggest benefit that I have received through ISES has been further education in the event industry and exposure to innovative ideas. This has had a dramatic impact on how I approach my industry and helps to reenergize the excitement I have for what I do. With the content and experiences that I gain, I see ISES as one of the strong tools that I use to help elevate the level of weddings in this market.
	Director of Membership Craig Oliver 952-922-7233 office craig@ises-msp.org   Company: General Manager, AARCEE Party & Tent Rental  Years in event industry: 100 years (ok just feels like it). really more like 24 years Other positions held in ISES: > Immediate Past President, 2005-2006 > President, 2004-2005 > President, 2003-2004 > President-Elect, 2002-2003 > CPD 2003   I work with Membership. If you are interested in becoming a new member or are a current member with a membership related question please feel free to contact me anytime.   One of the most valuable benefits I have received from ISES is the ability to share skills, ideas and new technologies with event professionals from all over the USA.
	Director of the Minnesota Star Awards Jodi Collen, CSEP 612.330.1107 office jodi@ises-msp.org   Company:    Years in event industry: 8 Other positions held in ISES: > Midwest Regional Vice President, 2006-2008 > Immediate Past President, 2006-2007 > President, 2005-2006 > President-Elect, 2004-2005 > International Education Committee Member > Vice President of Education & Programs, 2003-2004 > Treasurer   I am responsible for leading the chapter's 'Special Event', the Minnesota Star Awards. This event is produced each March and offers event professionals in Minnesota an opportunity to increase the recognition they receive for the fabulous events they create, plan, manage and execute each year. This event is close to my heart as I was instrumental in starting the program and I look forward to chairing the 4th Annual celebration. I encourage you to contact me if you'd like to get involved by sponsoring/showcasing your product (venue, A/V, food and beverage, decor, etc.), would like to volunteer for a committee and help plan this special night, or are interested in learning more about the entry process. Additionally, as the Midwest Regional Vice President, I oversee the 7 chapters in the Midwest Region and act as a liaison between ISES Headquarters and the Chapter Leadership for each of the regional chapters. I can honestly say that joining ISES---and more specifically, becoming INVOLVED in ISES---has been the best career move that I have ever made. My association with this organization has provided me with a multitude of benefits and has taught me a great deal about the industry. In addition to the great opportunities that I have had to work with some of the key people in the industry, ISES has played an instrumental role in every job that I have received since joining the industry. I believe that ISES has provided me with increased visibility in the local community--and provided me with an amazing network of professionals that I use on a day to day basis in my position at Augsburg College.
	Director of Sponsorships Dan Zunker 952-564-3272 dan@ises-msp.org     Company: Senior Production Manager, Heroic Productions Years in event industry: 20 Other positions held in ISES: > Star Awards Committee, Audio/Visual Chair, 2005, 2006 and 2007   I will be taking the reigns on the new Sponsorship Program this year with the help of a foundation laid by Ruth Wikoff-Jones. Anyone wanting to put their talents and/or services in the spotlight of our expanding membership is encouraged to contact me. With our membership shooting way past any imaginable goal, there are plenty of new members who may not know about what you offer to the special event industry. By providing your services or product/venue for an ISES program or event you are able to show off the best you have to offer to top professional in the industry. I have benefited personally and professionally from my active involvement in ISES by meeting event professionals that have fresh ideas and are committed to event excellence. Having been in this industry for over 20 years it is easy to do events as you have always done them. ISES events, local and national, give me the opportunity to go out and see what others are doing and to see the new and innovative ideas that others come up with. This allows me incorporate them into existing events that have been done the same way before and breathe new life into them. Our company likes to stay on the cutting edge of technology and attending ISES events makes it easy to stay on top. I have attained and kept my best clients because of connections with ISES and I am looking forward to giving back to ISES by serving on the Board and meeting more professionals worldwide that share my commitment to ISES and special event perfection.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Chapter named International Chapter of the Year for 2006-2007 at Eventworld 2007 in Montreal, Canada!!!

The coveted Chapter of the Year Award, one of the ISES Spirit of Excellence Awards, recognizes the chapter – out of 41 ISES chapters worldwide – that best exemplifies outstanding achievement in communications, programming and education, special projects, chapter administration, membership retention and growth, as well as CSEP enrollments and exam participants. This year, 15 chapters submitted entries to be considered for the award and earning this award symbolizes the excellence to which other chapters aspire.

Winning Chapter of the Year is not possible without the involvement and effort of every one of our members. In 2006-2007 we:

> increased membership from 77 members on July 1, 2006 to 176 members on June 8, 2007 (157 full members and 19 student members) -- growth of 128%.
> increased student membership by 280% (from 5 to 19).
> had an “active” membership rate of 80% (“active” means the member participated in at least one chapter activity).
> Averaged 98 people per monthly program -- an increase of 113% from the previous year.
> increased MN Star Awards attendance by 33%.
> increased the number of entries in MN Star Awards from 26 to 49 total entries -- an increase of 33% in one year.

You all deserve a big "Congratulations" for contributing to this incredible achievement!

Specific congratulations are due to the individuals who worked tirelessly to write and complete the rigorous binders required for entering the Spirit of Excellence Awards in Communications, Programming and Education, Special Projects, as well as Chapter of the Year.  Jodi Collen, CSEP, Lisa Marie Borchert, and Leslie Larson worked countless hours to create, implement and design the submission for international recognition.  Board members Jim Leighton, Kate (Touhey) Stahl, CSEP and Ryan Hanson joined the committee to edit each submission.

As a result, this is the second consecutive year ISES Minneapolis-St. Paul has been awarded Chapter of the Year. Additionally, the Chapter received the Spirit of Excellence – Membership Growth award.  View Media Release

Previous awards won by the Minneapolis-St. Paul Chapter include: Chapter of the Year 2005-2006; Excellence in Communications 2004-05; Excellence in Communications 2003-04; Region of the Year - Midwest 2004-05; Excellence in Member Retention 1999-2000.

photo: Blanken Photography Studio, Ltd.

Accepting the award on behalf of the entire Minneapolis-St. Paul Chapter is left to right; (front row) Elly Carlson, Jodi Collen, CSEP, Kate (Touhey) Stahl, CSEP, Cara Schulz; (middle row)  Paula Wright, Sheree Bochenek, Ryan Hanson, Jean Peine, Lisa Marie Borchert; (Back Row) Craig Oliver and Matthew Trettel.

Not Able to be in Montreal?  View the Chapter of the Year Announcement!

The Minneapolis-St. Paul Chapter of ISES is a diverse group of business professionals serving the event needs of the business and social community. We are dedicated to continuing the advancement of quality and professionalism while upholding the highest ethical standards within the special event industry. We promise to respect and support each other by providing professional education and opportunities for networking in an atmosphere of fun.

1. Chapter Information:
ISES Minneapolis-St. Paul
P.O. Box 582233
Minneapolis, MN 55458
612-677-3790 (phone/fax)
www.ises-msp.org

2. Chapter Programs and Fees
The MSP chapter puts on educational/networking programs eight times a year – generally September, October, November, December, February, April, May, and June. The Minnesota Star Awards are held during March.

a. Admission cost: The fees for each program are set by the Board of Directors at the beginning of the ISES year.
b. Advance payment by credit card is the preferred method of payment.
c. Attendance types:
1. Member: The member cost is the lowest rate – currently $30.
2. Associate: To qualify for an associate rate, you must be the colleague of an ISES member. The associate rate is currently $40.
3. Non-member: The non-member rate is for those who are neither a member nor an associate. The rate is currently $45.
4. Student Members: The student member rate is currently $15. Students who are not ISES members pay the non-member rate, currently $45.
d. RSVP deadline: The RSVP deadline is 72 hours prior to the program. You may RSVP after the deadline, but at a higher cost (currently an additional $10).
e. Attendance capacity: Generally there will be no cap on attendance at programs. However, if there is a cap, it will be publicized in advance. When there is an attendance limit, members will be notified of the program details before they are publicized to non-members.
f. Should a person RSVP for a program and subsequently be unable to attend:
1. If they notify the chapter (cancel their reservation electronically or e-mail info@ises-msp.org) prior to the RSVP deadline (currently 72 hours prior to the program), there is no penalty.
2. If the cancellation is made after the RSVP deadline, or if the person who RSVPd does not show up for the program, no refund will be given or the person will be billed for the program fee if they did not pay in advance.
3. Someone else may attend in place of the person who cannot attend the program. However, the attending person will need to cover the rate for which they qualify. For example, if a member RSVPd and paid the member rate, and sends a non-member in their place, the non-member will owe the difference between the member and non-member rate (currently $15).
g. Beginning July 1st, 2008, the chapter will no longer accept program reservations without a credit card authorization. While we strongly prefer advance credit card payments, we do still accept checks at the door rate. However, if a check is returned for nonpayment, that person will be charged an additional $25 NSF fee, in addition to the amount of the check.

3. Member Rights and Benefits
Membership is through the international ISES organization, but each member is associated with a specific chapter (or at-large) and a percentage of membership dues is rebated back to the chapter for local operations. In addition to the international rights and benefits of ISES members, those associated with the Minneapolis-St. Paul chapter have the following rights.
a. Electronic list of members: Upon a request submitted to info@ises-msp.org, a member may receive an electronic version of the chapter membership list.
b. First notice of programs with attendance limits (see section 2e above).
c. When possible, priority will be given to members over non-members when seeking program sponsorship.

4. Member Mailing Labels for Non-Members
A complete set of the ISES Minneapolis/St. Paul mailing labels is available for a single use to non-members at a cost of $450. It is understood that the labels may not be reproduced or maintained as a list; they are for a one-time use only.

5. Privacy & Communications
The entire contact list will never be released. Requests for information to be sent to the contact list should be submitted to the VP of Communications (info@ises-msp.org), who will determine whether and in what manner information will be sent to the contact list.

6. Board of Directors
The structure of the Board is determined by the international ISES by-laws. There are 13 Board positions, six of which are mandated by the by-laws. Those six positions form the Officers of the chapter and comprise the Executive Committee, which is empowered to act on behalf of the chapter between meetings of the full Board. The additional seven positions are director-at-large positions that allow the chapter Board of Directors to direct focus in the way that is most beneficial to the chapter.

The Officers of the chapter consist of the following:
• President
• President-Elect
• Vice President of Membership
• Vice President of Programs/Education
• Vice President of Communications
• Immediate Past President, serving in an ex-officio capacity

Currently the Minneapolis-St. Paul chapter has assigned its at-large positions as follows:
• Director at Large—Membership
• Director at Large—Programs/Education
• Director at Large—Communications – Media & Marketing
• Director at Large—Communications – Newsletter/Invites/Website
• Director at Large—Administration
• Director at Large—Sponsorships
• Director at Large—Minnesota Star Awards

The terms of the Officers are one year; the terms of the Directors are two years. There is a maximum of two successive terms per position. In the event of a resignation or open position, the President may appoint someone without a slate or membership vote, with approval of the Executive Committee.

7. Board Meetings
The Board of Directors holds monthly business meetings 11 times a year (August through June). It also holds two annual retreats (generally in July and January) at which time chapter goals and priorities are set and reviewed. The Board has an open-door policy and all members are welcome to attend a board meeting at any time. Contact info@ises-msp.org for the calendar dates if interested.

8. Budget
Per international standards, the chapter is required to prepare a budget each year and submit monthly financial statements. The primary purpose of the budget is to allow the chapter to serve as a resource for members and the larger special events planning community. This is done in a number of ways, including the following:
a. Hosting educational/networking programs as outlined in section 2.
b. Awarding one or more scholarships for members to attend the ISES Eventworld conference and sit for their CSEP.
c. Carrying out the administrative or operational business of the chapter.
d. Awarding travel grants for Board members to attend international leadership meetings, which may occur four times a year. Travel grants are to be awarded to members of the executive committee (see section 6 above) as requested, with priority given to President and President-Elect. There is a limit of 25% of the full travel grant budget per travel grant.
e. Other projects and activities at the discretion of the Board of Directors.
f. An optional maintenance of a savings account or similar investment, to provide financial security for the chapter.

9. Check-signing & Debit Card Policy
The chapter maintains a checking account, which is overseen by the President-Elect. Any check written from this account for $250 or more must be signed by two of the following people: President, President-Elect, VP of Education/Programs.

Additionally, the following people will have debit cards for the chapter account: President, President-Elect, VP of Education/Programs. Any time a debit card will be used for a purchase of $250 or more, advance written (including e-mail) authorization must be obtained by one of the other parties.

The President-Elect must receive a receipt or a copy of the receipt for every expenditure, regardless of the amount. These records of expenses must be retained by the President-Elect and passed on to their successor.

10. Contracts
The VP of Education/Programs is given the authority to enter into program-related contracts up to a value of $2,000 without Board of Executive Committee approval. Otherwise only the President, with Board or Executive Committee approval, is authorized to enter into any long-term contracts on behalf of the chapter.

11. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually at the summer retreat.

» Chapter Goals

Chapter Goals for 2007-2008:
Modeled after the International Board of Governors plan separated into FEBS areas: Financial, Education, Branding, and Structure.

· Have at least 70% of members be “active”, including participation in at least 3 activities (attend programs, award judging, committee work, etc.)
· Create one student member produced program (Education area)
· Revise Strategic Partnership program to be more comprehensive including Star Awards (Financial, Branding & Structure areas)
· Have Star Awards provide $3000 in scholarship funds (Finance & Education areas)
· Establish and award a CSEP scholarship program by June 30, 2008 (Education area)

» Involvement

In order to get the most value out of your membership, it is important to become involved in the day-to-day activities of the chapter. As they say, you will get out of your membership what you put into it, so be sure to take full advantage of your investment!

We understand that everyone’s ability to participate will be different and we are working hard to find different opportunities for all different levels of time commitments. Take the opportunities that are available to get involved, even if you can only commit a small amount of time! Here are a few of the opportunities for you to become more involved in the ISES Minneapolis-St. Paul Chapter:

• Board of Directors
• Committee Chairperson or Committee Member
• Student Volunteer Involvement
• Miscellaneous

Committee Chairperson or Committee Member:
Many of our board duties are quite extensive and often require the help of additional committee members. Do you have an interest in helping develop some of our monthly programs? Or, would you like to write articles for the monthly newsletter? We need help on a variety of our committees including:

• Communications:
  The goals and objectives of the communications committee are to develop a cohesive branded message in tandem with ISES International Headquarters by disseminating information locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. These goals and objectives are accomplished through the utilization of tools such as the ISES Minneapolis - St. Paul Web site, newsletter, e-mail and various other media outlets. The committee is also charged with reaching as many current and prospective industry members with informative and timely information and news with regard to the Chapter and the special events industry.
  To join this committee or for more information, contact Communications
  
  
• Membership:
  Help recruit, retain and re-engage current and new individual members and corporate supporting organizations to the chapter. The committee also works to increase overall membership, member diversity and monthly meeting attendance and participation through various programs and activities.
  To join this committee or for more information, contact Membership
  
  
• Programs:
  Plan monthly meetings by scouting venues and partnering with suppliers and sponsors. Work to develop programs that contain educational and networking opportunities for ISES Minneapolis - St. Paul members.
  To join this committee or for more information, contact Programs
  
  
• Minnesota Star Awards:
  Participate in the planning and managing of the annual ISES Minnesota Star Awards. Sub-Committees for the Star Awards include Design and Decor, Marketing & Public Relations, Awards and Entries, Catering/F&B, Audio-Visual, Sponsorship and General Event Management.
  To join this committee or for more information, contact Star Awards
  
  
• Nominating Committee:
  Develop the slate of members who will be up for election to the board of directors each year. Duties include contacting potential board members, distributing nomination information and slates, counting votes and contacting elected board members.
  To join this committee or for more information, contact The President
  

Student Volunteer Involvement:
As a way to get the most out of your student membership, student members of ISES are required to contribute 10 hours of volunteer time to the organization and we have a variety of ways for you to get that volunteer time fulfilled including:

• Registration Volunteer:
  Volunteer to assist with welcoming guests to our monthly meetings, handing out nametags, collecting meeting payments and handing out meeting information.
  
• Star Awards Volunteer
  There are many volunteer needs for the Star Awards including assisting with mailings, working the registration table, set up and tear-down assistance and many other event duties.
  
• Committee Involvement
  Student members are encouraged to become active on one of the committees (described above). Committee work is the best way to get hands-on experience and to network with and learn from industry professionals.
  

Miscellaneous Activities:
Each year we have a variety of one-time volunteer opportunities that provide you with an easy and non-lengthy way to be active in the chapter. Some recent activities have included:

• Award Judging:
  Each year, we judge the awards entries for another ISES chapter and need the help of many of our members to get all of the judging done. Communications will go out about dates and times—but, the judging generally takes place in late January/early February.
  
  
• Program Host:
  Each month, we look for a member or ISES supporter to host our monthly educational program. This person will work closely with the Programming Committee to establish the details for the monthly program.

International Involvement:
The ISES international leadership teams are responsible for providing the vision and plans across all chapters. The Minneapolis-St. Paul chapter has been honored by having some of our local leaders asked to serve at this higher level. For 2007-2008 Jodi Collen, CSEP will serve her second term as the Midwest RVP, Kate Stahl, CSEP will serve on the Certification committee and Ryan Hanson will serve on the Marcom committee. In the past Karla Winter has served on the Marcom committee, Kate Stahl, CSEP has served on the Education committee and Craig Oliver has served on the Finance & Audit committee.