The term DEI became a political lightning rod in 2025. Even so, it’s essential to remember how expansive DEI truly is, spanning race, neurodiversity and even drink preference. Smart Meetings rounded up a handful of our best stories that capture what DEI means in the meetings industry and why planners should continue keeping it top of mind as we enter the new year.
DEI at a Crossroads
In this piece, Smart Meetings explores how DEI reached a pivotal moment in early 2025, as federal rollbacks prompted many organizations to reconsider their commitments, with some pulling back. At the same time, we spoke with leaders who are doubling down on why inclusion still matters for their people and their business.
Multigenerational Magic: Engaging Diverse Audiences at Events
This article, written by guest author Lisa Ryan, examines how events rely on experiences that resonate across generations, from Baby Boomers to Gen Z. Acknowledging the varying experiences, communication styles and engagement preferences of different groups allows planners to create thoughtful touchpoints that support engagement and spark meaningful connections.
Is Your Event Inclusive? Why Non-Alcoholic Drinks Matter Year-Round
In this story, Shweta Sharma explores another layer of inclusion: non-alcoholic beverage offerings. Whether for health, religious reasons or personal preference, incorporating creative mocktails and non-alcoholic spirits is an essential consideration. Treating these options as a main attraction rather than an afterthought elevates the experience for everyone.
Smart Start Radio—Seen, Heard, Valued: The DEI Wake-Up Call
On this episode of Smart Start Radio, hosts Eming Piansay and Sara Robertson sit down with Zoe Moore, founder of Moore Consulting Agency and a DEI expert in the hospitality and events industries. They discuss why clear communication about diversity, equity and inclusion matters and how intentional planning can turn those principles into measurable impact. Moore shares her personal journey into DEI work and introduces her “Insight to Implementation” framework, designed to help meeting professionals gather data, inform stakeholders and strategically embed equity into supplier networks, leadership and event experiences.
Neuroscience-Backed Meeting and Event Design: How to Design Brain-Friendly Experiences
This piece by Lisa Schulteis focuses on the role of neuroscience in event design and how to successfully engage attendees by supporting attention, memory and emotion. Schulteis highlights that when attendees feel safe and grounded, they are more likely to engage with the content creatively.
