Posted: July 9, 2025
Paul Bailey (MBA’05, BComm’03), immediate past president of the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Atlantic Canada Chapter, accepted the RISE Award for Membership Achievement on behalf of the Chapter during the World Education Congress (WEC) 2025 in St. Louis, Missouri.
Hosted annually by MPI, WEC is one of the global meetings industry’s most significant events. The RISE Awards (Recognizing Industry Success and Excellence) celebrate outstanding achievements in innovation, inclusivity, and impact across the global MPI network. The Atlantic Canada Chapter’s recognition came in response to a bold organizational transformation, including the launch of a student scholarship fund, inclusive leadership initiatives, new regional programming, and industry-forward education offerings that positioned the Chapter as a model for renewal and relevance. Over the past 2 years, the Chapter achieved exceptional results: over 60% net membership growth, more than 500% in financial reserves, and expanded representation across Atlantic Canada.
Paul was joined at WEC by former Chapter leader Helene Moburg, who has held multiple global roles within MPI and played a key role in high-value networking during the conference.
“Receiving this recognition in St. Louis was a full-circle moment,” says Paul.
“This award is about what’s possible when a region like Atlantic Canada steps confidently onto the global stage — and when we design a community that’s inclusive, ambitious, and future-facing.” The Atlantic Canada Chapter’s win was one of two for Canadian MPI Chapters this year, with the RISE Award for Social Impact presented to the MPI Ottawa Chapter — marking a standout year for Canadian leadership in the international meetings and events industry.