MC&A Leadership: MPI Aloha Chapter Returns

MC&A is proud to announce that our Vice President of Operations in Hawaii, Heather Bailey, is leading the charge in revitalizing Hawaii’s meetings and events industry as President of the newly reinstated MPI Aloha Chapter. This milestone marks the successful conclusion of a challenging journey and the beginning of an exciting new era for Hawaii’s meetings industry.

The Journey Back

The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on Hawaii’s hospitality and tourism industry. With widespread uncertainty about recovery and many professionals leaving both the industry and Hawaii, the chapter’s membership numbers fell below the threshold needed to maintain chapter status. This led to the MPI Oregon Chapter “adopting” the Aloha Chapter during the pandemic.

During this transition period, the chapter ran multiple membership-drive events at reduced prices or no cost to keep the community’s spirit alive. These gatherings provided valuable opportunities for face-to-face connections with current and potential members, helping to generate excitement about the MPI Aloha Chapter’s eventual return.

A Unique Partnership

While Hawaii and Oregon may be separated by 2,600 miles and distinct cultures, their partnership yielded unexpected benefits. Hawaii members provided tropical getaway packages for Oregon chapter fundraisers, leading to meaningful connections when Oregon members visited the islands to enjoy their prizes.

Looking Forward

The reinstated Aloha Chapter has already begun celebrating its return, hosting a pau hana on Oahu at Maui Brewing Company followed by the new Cirque du Soleil show, ‘Auana. Plans are underway for a membership pau hana on Hawaii Island and the return of the chapter’s signature gala.

Guiding this exciting new chapter is a passionate and committed leadership team. The 2025 MPI Aloha Chapter Board of Directors brings together a dynamic group of professionals dedicated to supporting Hawaii’s meetings and events industry:

• President – Heather Bailey, MC&A
• Immediate Past President – Lauren Manuel, Makana Hawaii Incentives
• President Elect – Keith Uehara, Keith Uehara Photography
• Vice President Finance – Whitney Niemi, Makana Hawaii Incentives
• Vice President Education – Brandon Lindley, Havaianas
• Vice President Communications – Aaron Rego, Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
• Vice President Membership – Sean DiPaola, MC&A
• Director of Fundraising – Raysha Mamala, MC&A
• Director of Gala – Rebecca Coons, Nalu Creative
• Director of Education – Arliece Caro, Spring Board Hospitality
• Director of Communications – Michael Piasecki, Outrigger
• Director of Membership – Michael Vavru, Outrigger

Their leadership marks a fresh era of growth, connection, and opportunity for members across the islands.

The Importance of Local Connection

“MPI provides such an opportunity for us to purposefully connect with each other—to network, to do business, to learn together,” says Bailey. “Having an active chapter allows people the chance to grow professionally in various roles on the board and on committees.”

For MC&A, this revival represents the strength and resilience of Hawaii’s meetings industry and the power of community in destination management.

Connect with MC&A to learn more about our destination management services and our involvement in Hawaii’s meetings and events industry.