What’s the benefit? In an effort to attract universities that incorporate association events into their degree programs, the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers has created an initiative that will forge close ties between the association and universities, while providing students with the opportunity to meet professional leaders. In return, ABPCO members get to survey rising stars during events and gain access to the latest developments in their fields. Leeds Beckett University and Manchester Metropolitan University are among the first to have their courses recognized by ABPCO. Rhodri Thomas, head of the International Centre for Research in Events, Tourism, and Hospitality at Leeds Beckett University and an ABPCO board member, said in a statement that she was “delighted that Manchester Metropolitan University is also joining us and hoping that other universities will also shortly become part of this valuable network.”

Why it works for members: The partnership will enable ABPCO members to collaborate with the next generation of professional conference organizers, giving them the opportunity to assess potential hires and to network with them. It will also offer members unparalleled access to university research relevant to their fields of study. “ABPCO members have a wealth of experience and knowledge, so the opportunity to use that to benefit university students and the industry as a whole is an exciting one,” Jennifer Jenkins, chair of ABPCO, told Travel Daily News.

Other benefits: Those interested in joining ABPCO may select the type of membership that best suits their needs based on the benefits offered. Perks include a personal member profile on the association website and inclusion in the yearly communication campaign, which entails joining fellow members at seminars and conventions.

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