The Founding of SGMP

The Society of Government meeting professionals was established in October 1981 in Washington, DC. Organizers of government meetings saw a need for a forum in which to discuss mutual objectives and techniques for conducting business meetings of the government. They sought to create an opportunity to meet on common ground with the providers of meeting services and facilities to review the latest trends in planning and implementing these events. The motivating force behind the new organization was Sam Gilmer. His insight into the need for such a group proved prophetic. Today, SGMP has grown to nearly 3,000 members and 21 chapters.

In April 1986, after several chapters had been formed throughout the country, SGMP chartered the National Capital Chapter to allow government meeting professionals in the nation's capital to have their own home chapter.

Programs Committee
Being a volunteer and an active member of the Programs Committee can allow you the opportunity to develop content and work with invited guests and speakers for NATCAP’s Monthly Meetings and special events. The Programs Committee provides educational opportunities to enhance members personal and professional development. We are looking forward to bringing dynamic and engaging programs to the National Capital Chapter this year and hope you will be a part of the experience! For more information, to host meetings or to join the committee, please contact Kathleen Ryan at: [email protected]

Nominations & Elections Committee
The Nominations & Elections Committee functions under the guidelines established for SGMP's National Board of Directors and Chapter elections. For more information or to join the committee, please contact Melody Kebe at: [email protected]

Special Events Committee
The Special Events Committee plans, organizes and executes several special fundraising / networking events each year which includes the Holiday Celebration & Silent Auction, Honors & Awards Gala and Summer Outing. For more information or to join the committee, please contact Therese Palermino at: [email protected]

Sponsorship Committee
The Sponsorship Committee solicits sponsorships to support NATCAP education events and coordinates between committees to source venues for education meetings and special events. For more information or to join the committee, please contact Claudia Gunter at: [email protected]

Honors and Awards Committee
The Honors and Awards Committee recommends and nominates members for national and chapter awards. For more information or to join the committee, please contact Heather Parrish at: [email protected]

SHAPING THE INDUSTRY - SAMUEL GILMER

Samuel O. Gilmer

Sam Gilmer, a dedicated federal government meeting planner, played an instrumental role in the founding of the Society of Government Meeting Planners, which is now the Society of Government Meeting Professionals (SGMP). Sam recognized the need for an organization that promoted the importance of and unique needs of a government meeting planner. As their work was greatly impacted by the rules and regulations of the federal government, government meeting planners needed their own society to educate its members to run effective and efficient meetings for all levels of government as well hospitality suppliers on how to help them manage the cost of government meetings.

Single Most Important Contribution

Sam's insight into the need for a government professionals group proved prophetic. He wanted professional development and training that pertained to the unique field of government planners. He was dedicated to create an association suited to the unique needs of government meeting planners and to provide them with knowledge, education, techniques, mutual objectives and industry relationships to enhance the quality of the government meetings industry. Thanks to his tireless effort, SGMP has given professional development opportunities and services to all levels of government meeting professionals. Watch Sam Gilmer's induction into the Event Industry Council Hall of Leaders. Information on Sam Gilmer provided by the Events Industry Council Virtual Hall of Leaders

POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Policies & Procedures

SGMP National Capital Chapter abides by the SGMP Bylaws and follows the SGMP Policy Manual.

ONBOARDING GUIDE

Onboarding Guide

Our Onboarding Guide is a great way to get familiar with our chapter. This document is intended to assist our valued members in navigating how to make the best of their membership.

Click to visit our Onboarding Guide today!

COMMITTEES