Elliott Ferguson is President and CEO of Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC. He joined DDC in 2001 as VP of Convention Sales, became SVP of Convention Sales and Services in 2005 and has served in his current role since 2009. Ferguson is currently Chair of the Event Leaders 100, where he guides the group’s efforts to advance ideas to move the industry forward. He has previously served as Chair of the Board of Directors for U.S. Travel Association and Tourism Diversity Matters. Ferguson is a 34-year veteran of the travel and hospitality industry.

Leah Lewis is an experienced meeting designer and strategist dedicated to accomplishing an organization’s mission through meaningful events. She has worked with a variety of associations in the information technology, legal, scientific, manufacturing, and medical fields. Leah produces over 40 annual events to a global audience as the Director of Meetings & Events for the American Gear Manufacturers Association. She currently serves as the Treasurer of the PCMA Capital Chapter. Leah graduated from George Mason University with a BS in Tourism and Events Management in 2012 and is a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Digital Event Strategist (DES). Leah was awarded the PCMA Capital Chapter’s President’s Award in 2020 and PCMA’s Outstanding Service to a Chapter or Region Award in 2023.

Sarah Betman began her hotel career 17 years ago right here in this very building as a bartender! She soon after began her career in sales as an Assistant and has since worked her way up to Director of Sales & Marketing. She has worked in major brands such as Hyatt and Hilton, but thrives in smaller independent brands such as Sonesta. She has worked in the Dupont Circle neighborhood since 2015. Sarah is a native born Washingtonian, lover to travel and loves her city.

Lauren Kramer worked as an association executive prior to founding Meeting Priorities 17 years ago. She and her team of vetted independent contractors assist clients with all aspects of meeting, event, exhibit and sponsorship sales and management. Lauren specializes in senior-level staff searches for associations and received PCMA's Educator Lifetime Achievement Visionary Award in 2019. She is a lifelong learner, global traveler, beach and Bruce Springsteen enthusiast and can be found in Old Town and at the beach walking her dog Mojo.