Minnesota Meetings + Events is proud to introduce our 2019 Hall of Fame, made up of seven top-notch individuals who are positively impacting the meetings and events industry.
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Meet Jessica Barrett, 2019 Best Supplier
POSTED April 29, 2019
BEST SUPPLIER
Jessica Barrett
Executive Director, Machine Shop
On her role in shaping Machine Shop: “During the renovation of the space, I managed the second half of construction which was great because it gave me influence over a lot of small details and how the space functioned so that it could be set up for events.”
On saying no: “I don’t want to be known as a person who always says ‘yes’ to everything, but I do want to be known as someone who always says, ‘no, but here’s something else that we could do.’”
“I know that it sounds corny when I say it, but I still believe truly that my job is making people’s dream come true and I do take that very seriously.”
“I think one of my biggest [assets] is empathy. I can see all sides of a situation and I might not always agree, but I can usually understand the perspective. Doing that helps me create alternatives for people. … I do have a little bit of know-it-all perspective. I like to know the answers to things. I like to be a resource.”
On her secret weapon: “I have a like worst-case scenario brain but also an inner sense of optimism so I always believe that we can overcome or fix anything … it keeps me grounded.”
On her travels: “I didn’t get on an airplane until I was 19 years old and actually never left the country until I was almost 30 and since then I’ve travelled to 14 countries and I’ve touched every continent now except Antarctica. My goal is to touch every continent before I turn 40, so I’m planning on going on a cruise to Antarctica in 2021.”
Minnesota offers vibrant autumn color and provides a kaleidoscopic backdrop for your event.
New England often gets the most credit for its spectacular fall color, but many rank Minnesota in the top tier for seasonal beauty, making fall an ideal time for meetings anywhere in the state. From the North Shore of Lake Superior to the Twin Cities and Rochester, there are a variety of venues with ideal seasonal settings that can cater to groups of all sizes.
Duluth
Experience Rochester MN appointed Angie Richards to the position of vice president of sales. She previously held the position of area director of sales for Avra Hospitality in Rochester, Minn.
Richards will lead Experience Rochester MN’s sales team, which is responsible for the booking of meetings, conventions, and other events at Mayo Civic Center as well as group sales for the entire city.
Radisson Blu Mall of America promoted Kate Anastasi to director of sales and marketing. Anastasi has been with the Radisson Blu Mall of America team for eight years and has held many support and leadership roles within the sales team. She had most recently served as the assistant director of sales and marketing. Anastasi won the 2021 Radisson Blu Manager of the Year award.