On October 30, Metro NYSAE’s Synergy Awards returned this year with a morning of recognition, inspiration, and connection at the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) headquarters. More than 100 members and guests gathered for a networking breakfast, generously sponsored by GES/onPEAK, before moving into the theatre to celebrate the achievements of their peers.
Diane Tiberio, Synergy Awards Chair and Sr. Sales Director – Western U.S. & Asia for the American Pet Products Association, kicked off the morning, welcoming attendees, thanking the dedicated staff, committee and sponsors, and introducing the event’s opening speaker. For the second consecutive year, Chris Vasami, motivational speaker, former college and pr baseball player, cancer survivor and coach – energized the audience with his insightful and engaging presentation.
The awards portion of the morning recognized outstanding contributions across the association community:
Association Partner of the Year: Rhonda Payne, CAE, CEO + Founder, Flock Theory
Presented by Mark Lowry, Chief Revenue Officer, Higher Logic
Excellence in Educational Programming: Brienne Willcock, Director, Education & Standards, Illuminating Engineering Society
Presented by Jason Sojka, VP of Convention Development, Louisville Tourism
Excellence in Membership: Amy Chapman, Director of Operations, New Jersey Psychological Association
Presented by Metro NYSAE Board Member Craig Coleman, SVP, Events & Programming, Interactive Advertising Bureau
Rising Star Award: Lina Kang, Meeting Planner, Cardiovascular Research Foundation
Presented by David Donovan, President, New York State Broadcasters Association
DEI Champion Honoree: Carine Desroches, Meetings & Events Director, National Kidney Foundation
Presented by Metro NYSAE Board Member Lili DeVita, SVP & COO, Financial Executives International
Meetings Professional of the Year: Kathleen McKay, Vice President, Events, Interactive Advertising Bureau
Presented by Melissa Hayden, Director of Sales Mid-Atlantic & Northeast, Visit Fort Worth
Chief Executive of the Year: Nancy Urbanowicz, CAE, Former Executive Director, Academy of Management
Presented by Eric Schmidt, Co-Founder and CEO of Glue Up
Lifetime Achievement Award: Claire Rosenzweig, President & CEO, Better Business Bureau of Metropolitan NY
Presented by Rita Lopez, CMP, HMCC, National Sales Director, Discover Puerto Rico
The morning concluded with heartfelt closing remarks from Diane Tiberio, highlighting the collective dedication and talent that define Metro NYSAE’s community. Attendees left inspired, connected, and celebrated for the work they do to advance the association industry.
