NCCHC CEO Deborah Ross, CCHP, has received the Broad Shoulders Award from the Professional Convention Management Association Greater Midwest Chapter. The award recognizes special efforts or contributions to the organization, innovative, and meritorious actions and leadership and has only been awarded eight times since 1996.

Formerly NCCHC’s Vice President of Education, Ms. Ross has been an active and long-standing member of PCMA GMC for more than 20 years. Over the years, she was deeply engaged in supporting the organization’s mission through extensive volunteer leadership, including more than a decade of service on the Sponsorship Committee and three years on the Awards Committee. In addition, she served on the PCMA GMC Board of Directors from 2018 to 2020, where she contributed to strategic planning, governance, and the continued growth and success of the chapter.

Ms. Ross noted, “The meetings and hospitality industry plays a vital role in bringing people together to learn, collaborate, and innovate. At its core, it is an industry defined by service, resilience, and the power of meaningful human connection. Being part of this community has shaped my career in profound ways—challenging me to grow, broadening my perspective, and ultimately giving me the confidence and foundation to step into the role of CEO.”