This blog was originally published on April 4, 2024, and updated on March 24, 2025.

Destinations International is proud to join the global celebration of Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) on April 3, 2025—a day dedicated to elevating the power of meetings, trade shows, conferences and events to drive meaningful progress for people, businesses and communities.

Led by the U.S. Travel Association’s Meetings Mean Business Coalition, GMID amplifies a powerful message: #MeetingsMatter. In 2024 alone, more than $126 billion in meeting and event-related travel spending fueled the U.S. economy, directly supporting nearly 620,000 American jobs. These numbers reflect more than economic impact—they represent the innovation, opportunity and connection made possible through the power of gathering.

To mark this year’s GMID, we connected with two members of our Meetings & Events team—Andrea Lane Crawley, CMP, DES, Senior Manager of Meetings & Events, and John Moritz, Meetings and Events Manager—to hear more about their experiences in the meetings industry, what inspires them and why they believe meetings matter.

What drew you to the events industry and can you tell us a little bit about your journey? 

During spring break of my junior year in college, I attended a Sports Management Conference at George Washington University (GWU). There, I learned that Sports Management was only a piece of the growing and evolving tourism and hospitality industry. I became intrigued by GWU's Master of Science in Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management (MSTHEM) program (then known as Master of Tourism Administration) and enrolled after graduating. In choosing to expand my educational path from sports, I found my passion for planning and producing meetings and events within associations.

I stumbled into the events industry unexpectedly during my college years. It all began with a small initiative to bring together students from across the United States to our campus. What started as a modest endeavor quickly evolved into a large-scale event, welcoming over 500 attendees. Despite the challenges, I found myself drawn to the intricate process of planning and executing an event that brought people together in meaningful ways.  

There's a certain magic in orchestrating moments where individuals connect, learn, and grow. Whether it's witnessing friendships form or witnessing 'aha' moments among peers, there's an undeniable satisfaction in knowing that your efforts contribute to creating memorable experiences. It's this ability to craft moments that have the potential to positively impact someone's future that fuels my passion for the events industry.  

Over time, I realized that event planning wasn't just a job for me; it was a calling. There's a unique satisfaction in being behind the scenes, orchestrating every detail to ensure that attendees walk away enriched and inspired. From that first college event to my current role, my journey in the events industry has been marked by a deep-seated belief in the power of human connection and the transformative potential of well-executed events.

What initiatives are you hoping to implement to make DI's upcoming events more sustainable? 

In alignment with our Strategic Priority: Destination Stewardship, the Meetings and Events Team has been intentional with implementing sustainable elements for our events. Starting from the Request For Proposals (RFPs), we ask destinations about their standards and practices of sustainability (e.g. energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, food and waste plan, etc.). We're also moving towards more eco-friendly marketing through the use of QR codes, digital downloads, and printed signage made from biodegradable materials. Additionally, we work with our venues to provide water stations with recyclable materials (e.g. ceramic mugs and glassware), request aluminum-bottled or boxed water for our speakers and encourage our attendees to bring their reusable water bottles onsite.

What would be a piece of advice you would share with someone starting in the events industry?   

Value each and every connection you make. In the events industry, relationships are paramount. Whether it's with clients, vendors, colleagues, or industry professionals, every connection you forge holds the potential to enhance your career and elevate your events. Take the time to nurture these relationships, listen attentively, and understand the unique needs and perspectives of those you work with. Building strong connections not only fosters trust and collaboration but also opens doors to new opportunities and insights. Embrace networking opportunities, both within and outside your immediate circle, as they can lead to invaluable partnerships and friendships. Remember, in the events industry, success is often a result of the strength of your network.

Why do #MeetingsMatter?   

#MeetingsMatter because they provide invaluable opportunities for people to come together. Being in the industry for over 10 years, I've seen firsthand how meetings and events can drive a positive impact. They cultivate a space for creativity, innovation, and idea-exchange; strengthen relationships and partnerships with clients and colleagues; provide opportunities for both professional and organizational growth; and allow a space for advocacy and setting industry standards.

Meetings matter because they foster unexpected conversations and connections, sparking innovative ideas and decisions. In an increasingly digital world, face-to-face interactions are crucial for genuine human connection and nuanced communication. They drive productivity, cultivate relationships, and catalyze progress by bringing together diverse voices and stakeholders to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Simply put, meetings are where ideas are born, decisions are made, and relationships are cultivated, shaping the trajectory of our endeavors. 

At Destinations International, we believe meetings and events are more than just gatherings—they are catalysts for progress that shape the future of our industry. Every event we produce is a true team effort, with collaboration across departments and support from many hands behind the scenes. Our Meetings & Events team, including Andrea, John and Greg, plays a central role in bringing those experiences to life with precision and heart.

While this blog highlights Andrea and John, their stories represent the dedication, creativity and care that our entire team brings to the work. We hope that when you attend a Destinations International event, you feel that passion in every detail—from the way sessions are designed to the spaces that foster connection. Their efforts reflect our mission and the lasting impact that meaningful meetings can create.

As we honor Global Meetings Industry Day, we invite you to help amplify this message. Explore U.S. Travel Associations GMID 2025 tool kit, filled with messaging, graphics and social content to support your advocacy. Together, let’s continue to show the world how meetings drive impact for people, communities and the future of our industry.