To further ensure that its conference services-related personnel are among the industry's most highly qualified, Mohegan Sun will underwrite the application and examination fees associated with pursuing a CMP credential, which is awarded by the Convention Industry Council (CIC), or the CMM designation granted by Meeting Professionals International (MPI). Qualified managers, directors and above will be required to have, or within a year of employment, attain their appropriate designation.

The new policy is being implemented as Mohegan Sun moves full steam ahead with its $800 million expansion, which features a 34-story, 1,200-room luxury hotel tower that will offer more than 100,000 square feet of high-tech, ultraflexible meeting and function space, including the Northeast's largest ballroom. The entire project is due for completion in spring 2002.

"The standard we are setting for our conference services team is the most stringent yet by a meetings destination," said David Casey, vice president of sales and marketing for Mohegan Sun. "Thanks to the leadership of the CIC and MPI, the CMP and CMM designations today are synonymous with excellence in the meetings industry. That's why Mohegan Sun is committed to working in close partnership with two such important industry organizations so planners can rest assured that our standards will be the highest."
 

The CIC, based in Cleveland, Ohio, is composed of 26 organizations representing over 81,000 individuals and 13,000 firms or properties involved in the meetings, conventions, and expositions industries. In addition to sponsoring the CMP program, it facilitates the exchange of information, develops programs to serve and enhance the industry and meet its challenges, and educates the public on the industry's profound economic impact.

The CMM designation, administered by MPI in conjunction with Michigan State University, represents an opportunity for senior meeting professionals worldwide to be recognized as integral members of top management. Those who achieve the CMM designation enjoy advanced meeting strategy skills and high career prestige.

MPI, based in Dallas, Texas, is the leading global community committed to shaping and defining the future of the meeting and event industry. It currently has more than 17,000 members in 64 countries, with 58 chapters and another six chapters in formation.

Owned by the Mohegan Tribal Nation, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most distinctive and spectacular destinations in the United States. It is situated in scenic Southeastern Connecticut on 240 acres along the Thames River in the town of Uncasville. Within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence, as well as a wealth of popular activities and attractions, Mohegan Sun is already renowned as a legendary meetings, entertainment and gaming center.