Emeritus CMPs

Cecil Bailey, Jr. CMP
Richmond, VA

Having studied independently for more than three months prior to the exam date, I will always recall that day at the Crystal City Marriott, inside the beltway; with four hours of quiet concentration, deliberation, and a significant investment of time and effort. It was well worth it! When I received my letter of qualification as a CMP, I proudly showed it to the president of my company. Having always planned my sales meetings, “from the cradle to the grave”, so to speak, I now possessed a wealth of new knowledge. This was evidenced at my next annual meeting by the positive comments received from my senior management as well as from the attendees. A substantial salary increase followed soon thereafter, much of which resulted from the three letters which now followed my name. The efficient, particularly regarding more thorough and detailed planning, and the “what if” factors that always accompany a meeting.

My reputation of professionalism has followed me into retirement, and I have since continued to plan various meeting functions for national corporations as well as those involving reunions, breakfast meetings and business luncheons. Being on the board of the Salvation Army, and as a docent at a large botanical garden, I have contributed new ideas to enhance and improve the efficiency of their functions. Relinquishing my certification would a voluntary sacrifice of my professional status to my clients. Having built my reputation as an independent meeting professional, I would not want to consider the detrimental effect of giving up the CMP Title. An explanation of such would be difficult to substantiate for it has established a high degree of accomplishment and effectiveness with my accounts, who, in turn, respect my professional ability. The gratification of earning an income is a direct result of the continuity of my being a meeting professional. The three letters speak for themselves and have often afforded me the opportunity of being “hired”, sight unseen; therefore, I look forward to continuing to be a Certified Meeting Professional, and to attain Emeritus status. It is an ongoing privilege to have this opportunity to express my thought, observations, and the results of my positive experiences.