Carol Samuels

Associate Director, Strategic Events, Meetings & Incentives, Dallas Office 

Carol works in Owned Assets, and primarily creates content for the Cannabis Business events.

1. Describe your role with MCI Strategic Events, Meetings & Incentives. 

My role is to create an excellent conference experience at our events. Selecting the right subject experts to meet the needs of our attendees is essential; it sets the tone for the entire show.   

2. With MCI taking a new focus on virtual/digital events, what are some personal successes or triumphs you’d like to share from this transition? 

One success was working on a global event and learning how to use two new platforms in two weeks. Another success was participating as a moderator in the first virtual IAEE’s Exhibitions Day last month. It was wonderful to network and meet new industry professionals. I have enjoyed the process, but I can’t wait to get back on the road and meet our peeps face to face.  

3. Do you have any exciting summer plans or goals? 

My summer plan this year falls under the label of “vacation interrupted.” Finally, after many months of trying to find the right time for vacation (with four shows on the calendar), I began planning a trip to Poland. When the pandemic hit, our plans changed. So, this year I will probably have a staycation with my 2-year-old Llahas Apso, Happy. We’ll go somewhere local where pets are welcome. Hopefully, it will be safe to fly next summer, and I’ll get to visit Poland in 2021.  

4. What is one face-to-face activity you cannot wait to resume?  

My next trade show, post-pandemic! 

5. Have you picked up any surprising new hobbies lately?  

Not a new hobby, but my sewing machine came in useful over the last several months.  I started sewing masks for friends and family. It’s kind of therapeutic to create something from a piece of fabric that offers health benefits. Win-win!  

Picture: From Carol’s most recent trip to San Francisco – before the city went into lockdown!