John Christison earns 2010 lifetime achievement award

The International Association of Assembly Managers (IAAM) convention center and exhibit hall committee awarded John E. Christison, CFE, CMP, the 2010 lifetime achievement award. The award is presented to those individuals recognized by their peers for outstanding leadership contributions and exemplary service to the convention center and exhibit hall industry.


Christison received the honor during IAAM’s annual international convention center conference in San Diego, Calif. on September 24.
“It is a great honor to be presented with the IAAM lifetime achievement award,” said Christison. “Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with, and learn so much from, my fellow IAAM members. As a new generation of managers now begins to replace my generation, I am confident that the future of our industry is in very capable hands, due in no small part to the exceptional efforts of our association.”

Christison has worked in the convention center industry for nearly 40 years. He served as IAAM president in 1995-1996, received his certified facilities executive (CFE) designation in 1981. He was honored in 2003 with IAAM’s Charles A. McElravy award for meritorious service and extraordinary contributions to IAAM and the profession of public assembly venue management.

According to a news release issued by the IAMM, Christison has demonstrated his commitment to educating our future leaders through his outstanding contributions to both national and international educational programs. In addition to being a role model for young professionals, he has provided steady leadership and guidance for the association through his involvement on over 20 committees.