Scholarship and memorial award recognize deserving individuals

The Association for Convention Operations Management (ACOM), an organization dedicated to advancing the practice of convention services management in the meetings industry, has launched its fourth annual student scholarship program, and its second annual William H. Just, CAE, CMP memorial award.


In an effort to support students studying in the hospitality management field, the Donald S. Freeman, Jr. ACOM conference scholarship will provide funding for a student to attend the ACOM Annual Conference on January 7-9, 2011 at the Westin Casuarina in Las Vegas, Nev.

The winning student will gain a real-world perspective on the issues currently affecting convention services managers (CSM), as well as learn from conference sessions and networking opportunities with meeting professionals from across the U.S. and Canada.

A representative from Freeman will also mentor the student before, during and after the conference. The deadline for applications is November 5, 2010. A panel of ACOM members will select the winning student.

“Students continue to walk away from this experience with a better understanding of the meetings industry and the skills and knowledge that will help them excel in their future careers,” said Eric Blanc, CMP, senior sales manager at Freeman and first VP, ACOM.

The annual William H. Just CAE, CMP memorial award will recognize an ACOM member who has received their CMP certification within the last three years and remains in good standing with the association.

The award was established in honor of the late William H. Just, CAE, CMP who founded ACOM in 1988. Just also played a key role in the establishment of the CMP program. Candidates will be chosen based on their application which includes an essay on how the CMP designation has been beneficial to them, why they decided to receive this certification, and details on their industry and community involvement. The deadline for applications is November 5, 2010. Helping to support their CMP status, the winner will receive a complimentary registration to the annual conference.

“Continuing these award programs over the years showcases ACOM’s continued dedication to advancing the practice of convention services and our commitment to recognizing deserving individuals for their drive and dedication,” said Marilyn Healey, ACOM president.