In an effort to get to know our members better, we have a new feature on the ACOM web site called the Member Spotlight.

Our spotlight is on Amanda Tess Bonvechio, CMP, Convention Services & Housing Manager for Positively Cleveland, Recipient of the William H. Just, CAE, CMP Memorial Award

Please provide a brief overview of your position / venue.
I am the Convention Services & Housing Manager for Positively Cleveland, Cleveland’s Convention & Visitors Bureau. My responsibilities include serving as a liaison for Greater Cleveland’s hospitality community and the meeting planners who choose Greater Cleveland as their destination for meetings and conventions. I am also the Housing Manager for citywide housing business. I plan small to medium size events within Positively Cleveland. I am also the point of contact for DMAI’s MINT system.

How long have you been with your venue?
8.5 years

Where did you work previously, and in what positions?
I was a Meeting Manager for Conferon, Inc., now Experient, Inc. I was responsible for registration and housing details for conventions.

How did you become involved in the meetings industry?
I accepted a position from a temp agency to begin work for a company called Conferon, Inc. in Twinsburg, Ohio. I began as an assistant, then promoted to a Meeting Manager. After three years, I moved to the Convention & Visitors Bureau of Greater Cleveland, now known as Positively Cleveland.

Have you received your CMP designation?
Yes

If yes, what do you find as the main benefit of having your CMP?
The assurance to my clients that I understand their needs. It also gives me the sense of accomplishment that I achieved something great.

Are you affiliated with industry and/or professional organizations/associations in addition to ACOM? Have you held any leadership positions with those organizations?
I was a member of ISES (International Special Events Society) and held a position on the Membership Committee for one year. I am also active in attending events with HSMAI (Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International), PCMA and MPI Ohio.

What has been your personal involvement with ACOM to date?
I attended my first ACOM Annual Conference in 2008 in Seattle. I attended the 2009 Annual Conference in New Orleans. I have been on the Membership Committee for two years and now I’m currently serving on the 2010 Conference Planning Committee and have future plans to remain involved with ACOM.

What is your favorite thing about ACOM?
The camaraderie I have with fellow ACOM members. Not only has ACOM given me expert industry knowledge, it has given me friends across the nation who I can call upon at a moment’s notice.

Where did you receive your higher education and what was your main field of study?
The Ohio State University. B.A. in Russian Language and Literature and a Minor in Scandinavian Studies.

What are your leisure-time talents, hobbies, community involvements or interests that you would like to share?
My interests include traveling and hiking. I am involved with several local homeless shelters. I love to read. I live in Brecksville, Ohio with my family: husband Craig, daughter Bella (6), son Sam (4), and Bosco, our 10 year old chocolate lab.