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Upcoming EventsFebruary 13, 202510:00am – Board Meeting Topic: The CGMP Edge: Elevate Your Expertise, Expand Your Opportunities Description: Have you ever wondered how earning your Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) designation can transform your career? This session dives into the many benefits of obtaining the CGMP certification and why it’s a game-changer for government meeting planners and suppliers alike. From mastering industry-specific knowledge to building your credibility and unlocking career advancement opportunities, you’ll learn why the CGMP is more than just a certification—it's a mark of excellence. Join us to discover how investing in this designation can elevate your career and position you as a leader in the government meetings industry. Approved for 1 contact hour for Core Competency - Personal and Professional Development Location: Kenner, La - Chateau Country Club at 3600 Chateau Blvd Don't forget that we will be collecting clothing, shoes, and accessories to donate to the Dress for Success Initiative! There will be a Scholarship Fundraiser at this meeting: Hug in Mug - Bring your favorite treat in a mug to donate for the door prizes. Door prize tickets will be available for $1 or $5! Registration Deadline is February 6, 2025 - Unfortunately if you register after the deadline there is a $10 late registration fee and we won't be able to guarantee meal availability to those that register late. If you have questions, please contact Allison Landry, Treasurer at [email protected] Register OnlineMarch 13, 2025Monthly Chapter Meeting10:00am – Board Meeting Topic: Recognizing and Responding to Human Trafficking: A Guide for Meeting Professionals Description: Human trafficking can happen anywhere, including at the venues where meetings and events are held. As government meeting professionals, it’s crucial to be able to recognize the signs of trafficking and understand how to respond appropriately. In this important session, attendees will learn how to identify potential trafficking victims, spot common indicators, and take action to help. We will explore strategies for creating safe environments, partnering with local authorities, and implementing protocols that ensure the safety of all attendees. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to make a difference and protect vulnerable individuals in your event spaces. Approved for 1 contact hour for Core Competency - Personal and Professional Development Location: Lake Charles, La Registration Deadline is March 6, 2025 - Unfortunately if you register after the deadline there is a $10 late registration fee and we won't be able to guarantee meal availability to those that register late. If you have questions, please contact Allison Landry, Treasurer at [email protected] Hotel Accommodations: The L'Auberge Lake Charles is providing a courtesy block of guest accommodations for SGMP Meeting Attendees at government rate. Please visit the website www.llakecharles.com and enter the code SGMP25 to receive the group rate. Register OnlineApril 10, 2025Monthly Chapter Meeting10:00am – Board Meeting Topic: Mastering Excel & Google Spreadsheets for Success: A Guide for Meeting Professionals Description: Human trafficking can happen anywhere, including at the venues where meetings and events are held. As government meeting professionals, it’s crucial to be able to recognize the signs of trafficking and understand how to respond appropriately. In this important session, attendees will learn how to identify potential trafficking victims, spot common indicators, and take action to help. We will explore strategies for creating safe environments, partnering with local authorities, and implementing protocols that ensure the safety of all attendees. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to make a difference and protect vulnerable individuals in your event spaces. Approved for 1 contact hour for Core Competency - Technology Location: 4099 Gourrier St in Baton Rouge, La Registration Deadline is April 3, 2025 - Unfortunately if you register after the deadline there is a $10 late registration fee and we won't be able to guarantee meal availability to those that register late. If you have questions, please contact Allison Landry, Treasurer at [email protected] Register OnlineJune 12, 2025Monthly Chapter Meeting10:00am – Board Meeting Topic: Hybrid Meetings 101: Mastering the Tech for Seamless Events Description: In today’s evolving meeting landscape, mastering hybrid meeting technology is essential for successful events. This session will break down the ABCs of hybrid meeting tech, helping you understand the essential tools, setup basics, and when to call in an expert. Whether you're new to hybrid meetings or looking to refine your approach, this session will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the tech side of hybrid events with ease. Join us on June 12 for this informative SGMP Monthly Education Program and take your hybrid meeting skills to the next level! Applied for 1 contact hour for Core Competency - Technology Location: St. Tammany Parish Northshore, La Registration Deadline is June 5, 2025 - Unfortunately if you register after the deadline there is a $10 late registration fee and we won't be able to guarantee meal availability to those that register late. If you have questions, please contact Allison Landry, Treasurer at [email protected] Register OnlineRegistration FeesFirst/Second meeting(s) non-member attendees are FREE - but you must register! Non-members are permitted to attend two meetings as a guest and then are required by Bylaws to join SGMP. This does not apply to the SGMP La Annual Chapter Education Conference and Award Luncheon. If you are a current member of SGMP La Chapter or another SGMP Chapter please register as a member. Planner - Member $25 until 7 days prior to meeting Supplier Guest Non-Member $45 until 7 days prior to meeting Supplier - Member $35 until 7 days prior to meeting First/Second Virtual Meeting(s) Attendee Non-Members are FREE - but you must register! Non-members are permitted to attend two meetings as a guest and then are required by Bylaws to join SGMP. This option does not apply to the SGMP La Annual Education Conference and Award Luncheon. Virtual Attendee - $15.00 $10 late fee assessed for those that register after 7 days prior to the meeting deadline. CANCELLATIONS/REFUNDS: Once you register to attend the meeting you are added to the catering order. If you register (paid or unpaid) you will be charged the meeting attendance fee to cover the cost of your ordered meals. Requests for refunds/cancellations must be received five days prior to the meeting to avoid paying the fee if you can no longer attend the meeting. If you need assistance or have questions, please email [email protected]. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding. We cannot guarantee lunch availability to those that register after the deadline. We strive to provide individuals with disabilities equal access to our services, including through an accessible website. If you have questions, comments, or encounter any difficulty in using our site, please contact: [email protected] Government Meeting Specialist CertificateRequirements and Qualifications
In order to qualify for GMS, members must apply to enroll in the program with their respective chapter and maintain records of their attendance and the core competency the program covered. Over the course of three to five years, the member must meet the minimum criteria of program attendance and categorization in order to earn the GMS certificate. Any current SGMP member of a GMS Certificate participating chapter can apply for this program and must maintain their membership throughout the program in order to attend the programs and earn the certificate. The enrollment period is ongoing and can be completed in accordance with the participating chapter’s policies. In order to retain the value of the certificate and renew after five years, you will need to participate in a minimum of twenty contact hours within that period using this renewal tracking form and reapply to earn the certificate through the normal three to five year process. Learn More about GMS |
Government Meeting Specialist (GMS) is a voluntary certificate program for both planners and suppliers who are seeking the knowledge needed to effectively carry out the functions of a meeting professionals. Over the course of three to five years of membership with SGMP, members will earn the certificate through attendance in core competency-based training and gain the general skill set necessary to perform their duties as a government meeting professional. This program is designed to enhance the skills of those who are industry veterans as well as those who are just beginning their career. From the date of issue, the GMS certificate is valid for 5 years.