Colette Apke

Colette Apke, CMP, CEM, DES, who joined AWESOME in 2021 to help in developing AWESOME’s live and virtual programming, content and events that address the interests and needs of leaders in the AWESOME community – and brings over 15 years of event programming, meetings, and strategic partnership experience.

Prior to joining AWESOME, Colette was Assistant Director of Exhibits & Sponsorship, for the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), where she was responsible for the experience of over 300 exhibitors and sponsors for the AVMA annual convention, which draws over 9,000 attendees. She has also served in different meeting and event roles in the association industry with the American Nuclear Society and Appraisal Institute.

In 2020, she received Association Forum’s Forty Under 40 Award, which is a prestigious competition that provides recognition to accomplished association or non-profit professionals who demonstrate high potential for continued success in leadership roles and exhibit a strong passion for – and commitment to – the association nonprofit industries. Colette is also involved with ASAE, Association Forum and PCMA, and is currently serving on several industry advisory councils and committees. She is a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) and a Digital Event Strategist (DES). Colette holds a BA in General Studies, with a focus in Hospitality Management and Business Administration from Eastern Illinois University.