As manager of professional chapters for the American Marketing Association in downtown Chicago, Megan Backes works with volunteers to coordinate AMA’s annual Leadership Summit for incoming chapter board members. Her office is adorned with reminders of past summits and the people who made them happen.

“To make Summit fresh and fun, we select a new theme each year. Past themes have revolved around game shows, cruising, and films,” Backes says. “I display my favorite presenter apparel and attendee tchotchkes on the window ledge by my desk to remind me all year long of the great times I’ve had and strong bonds I’ve formed with chapter leaders at Summit.”

And the backdrop to her gallery? A bird’s-eye view of Lake Michigan from her 58th-floor office. Now that’s a summit.