THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS (November 5, 2009) - Aliya Thompson, a Conference Planning Manager at The Woodlands Resort, has earned the Convention Industry Council’s prestigious Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) designation, the foremost certification of the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry.

As the premier industry certification, the CMP distinguishes holders as career professionals who have demonstrated a high level of experience, skill and knowledge. The requirements for certification are based on an application, professional experience and a written examination.

“The Certified Meeting Planner designation is not an easy certification to earn, and in fact, only 13,000 planners in 35 countries have the title,” says Tom Norman, Director of Catering at The Woodlands Resort.
“Aliya put in countless hours and passed the exam with flying colors.”

Additionally, Thompson was selected by Meeting Professionals International-Houston Area Chapter’s “Leader of the Month” in September for her outstanding contributions to the organization. In addition to serving on the Registration Committee and CMP Committee, Thompson provided leadership and advice to MPI chapter members participating in a study group for the CMP exam.