Emeritus CMPs

Pola M. Cooper, CMP
Atlanta, GA

After getting over the reality of acquiring the coveted “CMP” Designation, my thoughts wondered to the many disciplines, components and the other interactive sub-titles that generate careers through this certification.

This career track has expanded my volume of knowledge by having had to study the operation of the hospitality and tourism industry. The CMP has been an added value to my education which afforded me the opportunity to teach a few classes in the Hospitality Program at Morris Brown College. To further keep “au courant” with what is new in the industry, during my tenure at Morris Brown College, I purchased books I acquired through my personal and business travels about the hospitality industry. My collection of books, newsletters, and information about meeting planning has gotten quite enormous that I have developed a library of resource material that has been shared with students and friends who are interested in the discipline of meeting planning. The students looked forward to the hand-outs I would share with them which brought reality to what they would encounter in the hospitality industry. After classes, the discussions and exchanges of experiences between the students were humorous and spirited. The atmosphere gave me a feeling of self satisfaction to know that I had provided an opportunity for open expression and intellectual dialogue between the students. These discussions often led to questions from the students regarding the CMP designation and how they could obtain the designation after graduating from college.

Since retiring, I have continued to work in the industry by organizing conventions and meetings, and speaking to groups about the art of meeting planning and the CMP Designation. When I am introduced to these groups as a CMP, I feel very proud that I am appreciated and that I have accomplished one of my career goals. The creditably the CMP Designation provides places me in good stead especially when I am asked occasionally to give an opinion about meeting planning for small businesses and non-profit organizations.

I have on occasion, had the opportunity to dine with former students and friends who are in the business on convention and meeting planning. The gathering becomes one of networking, shared information and fun! When interacting with a person or group, the conversation always involves the present economic conditions in the various industries that affect the convention and meeting industry business. Questions regarding what company or companies have re-branded or merged with another company and the impact of the merger on the hospitality and meeting planning industry are always discussed during these gatherings. And, since the purpose of our outing is to have a meal, the conversation runs the gamut of what is the most economical meal to serve at meetings for lunch and what the latest “best practices” are to serve for refreshments during meeting breaks.

Obtaining the CMP designation for emeritus status will give me a competitive edge in the meeting and hospitality industry and makes a statement to employers and prospective clients that I have taken responsibility for my own professional development.

Retaining the CMP is most important to me and has afforded me many important opportunities I might not have received.