President’s Message: Let’s Keep the Momentum Going! 🌟
Dear PMI Memphis Family,
Happy February 2026! Building on the incredible energy from our record-breaking January kickoff, I’m more excited than ever about what we’re creating together this year.
Our monthly chapter meetings are your prime opportunity to stay ahead: gain fresh insights, earn PDUs toward your certifications, network with fellow pros, and connect directly with the tools and resources that drive real project success.
Make it a priority—join us each month to invest in your growth, sharpen your skills, and be part of the conversations shaping our profession. Your presence fuels the community, and the value you get back (education, connections, inspiration) is unmatched.
See you at the next meeting—let’s keep turning “MORE” into reality, one gathering at a time!
With gratitude and anticipation,
Stefanie A. Schwegman
President & CEO
PMI Memphis Chapter
Connect with Stefanie on LinkedIn
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Welcome New Members: Fresh Energy Alert! 🚀
As we kick off 2026 strong here (January was chilly, but our community is heating up!), we’re thrilled to roll out the welcome mat for a fantastic batch of new members who joined us this month. Your fresh perspectives, expertise, and energy are exactly what make our group unstoppable. Let’s give a big, warm shoutout to our newest stars!
Eric Daniels – University of Memphis – Joined 01/03/2026
John Howrey – Joined 01/05/2026
Paul Patterson – Hexpol Compounding – Joined 01/05/2026
Olivia Potter-Swafford – Google Operations – Joined 01/07/2026
Njeri Robinson – City of Memphis – Joined 01/08/2026
Coltyn DeLoach – Joined 01/12/2026
Pooja Volety – Joined 01/22/2026
Ron Dowda – N/A – Joined 01/26/2026
Kathryn Cassidy – Regional One Health – Joined 01/27/2026
Steven Duncan – International Paper – Joined 01/29/2026
From academia and city government to tech giants, healthcare, manufacturing, and beyond—this crew brings a killer mix of skills and stories to the table. Whether you’re diving into networking events, sharing insights on our forums, or just grabbing dinner at the next meetup, we can’t wait to see what you bring (and what we all build together!).
Here’s to new beginnings, epic collaborations, and growing even stronger in 2026. You’ve found your people—welcome aboard! 🎉
Got questions, intros, or want to be featured next month? Drop a line—we’re all ears.
Member Milestone: New PMP Certifications Unlocked! 🏆
February 2026 is already delivering big wins, and we’re popping the (virtual) confetti for two of our own who’ve just earned the gold standard in project management: the PMP® (Project Management Professional) certification from PMI! This credential isn’t just letters after your name—it’s proof of elite skills in leading projects, managing risks, and driving results that make organizations (and careers) soar.
Huge congratulations to our latest certified legends:
Clarence Terry, PMP – Achieved January 4, 2026
Paul Patterson, PMP – Hexpol Compounding – Achieved January 23, 2026
Clarence and Paul, you’ve invested serious time, study, and grit to pass one of the toughest exams out there—major respect! Your new PMP status not only elevates your expertise but also strengthens our entire chapter. (Fun fact: PMP holders often report higher salaries, better project success rates, and more leadership opportunities—talk about a smart move!)
Whether you’re mentoring the next wave, sharing exam tips in our forums, or just flexing that shiny digital badge on LinkedIn, your achievement inspires us all. If you’re eyeing your own PMP (or another cert like CAPM, PgMP, etc.), hit up our resource library — we’ve got study groups, recommended courses, and fellow members who’ve been there.
Clarence and Paul: Drop a quick note in the comments or reply to this newsletter—what was your biggest “aha” moment during prep? We’d love to feature more of your journey next time!
Current members: Let’s keep the certification train rolling—tag a buddy who’s grinding toward theirs, or share your own wins. Our community thrives when we celebrate every step up.
Proud of you both—and proud to call you part of the fam! Keep shining. 🚀
Cheers to more milestones!
Membership Anniversaries: Cheers to Your Dedication! 🌟
Another month, another round of incredible loyalty from our PMI Memphis family. Thank you for sticking with us and making our community stronger every day—here’s to you!
1 Year (Joined Jan 2025)
Todd Winton – CTSI GLOBAL
Thomas Mock – FEDEX EXPRESS
Chante’ Dobson
Ashish Bommarajpeta – PFIZER
Scott Wheat – ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY
Lisa Foster – MEDTRONIC
Phyllis Strasberg
Cody Fletcher
George Donsbach
Ryan Draper – SSI FIRE & SAFETY
Joseph Brooks
3 Years (Joined Jan 2023)
Rochelle Atkins – ATKINS LEADERSHIP COLLABORATION
Hunter Shepard
Brian Walters – BUILDING PLASTICS INCORPORATED (BPI)
Jerrelle Williams – FIRST HORIZON BANK
Nicole Tucker – UNITED SITE SERVICES
Jay Hooks – ALLWORLD PROJECT MANAGEMENT, LLC
TONY PINSON – UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS
Janice Pittman – AERIAL STRATEGIC ENTERPRISES
5 Years (Joined Jan 2021)
Ashley Ross – HILTON WORLDWIDE
Harold Mitchell – RAFTELIS FINANCIAL CONSULTANTS
10 Years (Joined Jan 2016)
Tim Babcock – IFF N&B
Angela Fisher – AUTOZONE CORPORATE SSC
Timur Brodskiy – AUTOZONE
Greg Anderson – ANDERSON CONSULTING
Brandy Burnette – YOUNG WILLIAMS
John Zanella – STRYKER
Your commitment inspires us all—whether it’s 1 year of fresh energy or 10 years of steady leadership.
Here’s to many more years together. Keep shining! 🚀
Warmly,
Lalitha Avn
VP of Membership
PMI Memphis Chapter
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 January Chapter Meeting: A Record-Breaking Kickoff to 2026! 🚀
📅 January 2026 PMI Memphis Chapter Meeting We started the year with a bang! Our January gathering was the perfect launch for 2026—packed with fresh insights, exciting updates, and a renewed commitment to supporting project professionals across the Mid-South. We introduced the 2026 Board of Directors, shared our strategic priorities for the year, and enjoyed an inspiring presentation by Dr. Marie Feagins.
Her session explored how leaders translate bold vision into actionable strategy while navigating complexity, sustainability, and change—a topic that resonated deeply with project managers responsible for turning ideas into results and leading through uncertainty.
And the energy was undeniable: the highest number of registered attendees in the last 2 years, the most guests in 2 years, and the highest-grossing chapter meeting in that timeframe. Proof that PMI Memphis is thriving and our community is stronger than ever!
Check out these highlights from the night—capturing the packed house, lively discussions, and great connections:
Missed it? You’re already on the list for our next meeting—don’t miss the momentum! What was your favorite takeaway from Dr. Feagins’ talk?
Thanks to everyone who made this record-setting start possible. Here’s to an amazing 2026! 🌟
Cheers!
Pics from our January Event:
February 11, 2026 Chapter Meeting
February 11 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm ** Serendipity Labs **
6584 Poplar Avenue, 2nd Floor
Memphis, TN 38138
Venue Website
Directions
📅February 2026 PMI Memphis Chapter Meeting | ❤️ Love the Work You Do
This February, PMI Memphis invites you to celebrate the love of project management. The passion that drives us to lead with purpose, collaborate with intention, and deliver meaningful outcomes that make a real impact.
Project management is more than plans and schedules; it’s about people, commitment, and the dedication to see ideas through from concept to completion. In the spirit of 💘Valentine’s Day💘, this session will highlight what it truly means to love the that work we do. We exemplify this by serving communities, engaging stakeholders, and creating sustainable results through strong leadership and execution.
We are honored to welcome Brian Harris, Director of City of Memphis Youth Programs, who will share insights on leading purpose-driven programs, managing diverse stakeholders, and translating vision into action in community-focused initiatives. His perspective reinforces how project and program management principles play a critical role in building trust, driving impact, and delivering outcomes that matter.
Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned professional, this session is a reminder of why we chose project management and how our work continues to shape organizations and communities.
Join us for an evening of connection, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for the profession we love. 🥰
👥Presenter: Director Brian Harris, MBA
Director Brian Harris, MBA is a seasoned business and community leader with over 20 years of experience in team development, strategic planning, and youth engagement. He currently serves as Special Assistant to Mayor Paul A. Young and Director of Youth Services for the City of Memphis.
Brian previously taught business courses in Memphis Shelby County Schools and held senior leadership roles at Apple, Amazon, and Best Buy, where he led operations and youth-focused community initiatives.
A lifelong Memphian, Brian holds a B.S. in Organizational Leadership and an Executive MBA from Bethel University. He is active in civic life, serving on several local boards and commissions, and is a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Brian is a dedicated father to two children, Brian II and Hailey.
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Click Here: PMI Memphis February Training Opportunities to access our Training for February 2026
Dear PMI Memphis Members,
Happy New Year! On behalf of the PMI Memphis Chapter, I hope 2026 is off to a great start for you and your families. As we move forward into this new year, I’m excited about the professional development opportunities we have in store for you. Whether you’re just beginning your project management journey or looking to advance your credentials, we have something for everyone.
2026 is shaping up to be a transformative year for project management professionals, and PMI Memphis is here to support your growth every step of the way. Below, I’m thrilled to share our upcoming professional development offerings for February. I encourage you to review these opportunities and register early—our boot camps fill up quickly!
Upcoming Professional Development Opportunities
PMI-CP™ Exam Prep Readiness Boot Camp
February 9–18, 2026 | 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM Daily | $2,499
Accelerate your journey to becoming a PMI Construction Professional with this focused, eight-day boot camp. Designed specifically for construction project professionals with 3+ years of experience, this intensive program covers everything you need to confidently pass the PMI-CP™ certification exam. Industry experts predict that within the next 5 to 10 years, 50% of construction professionals will hold this certification—get ahead of the curve now.
Register Here
Project Management Basics 101
Friday, February 20, 2026 | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | $449
New to project management or looking to strengthen your foundation? This beginner-friendly, full-day workshop introduces you to the essential principles, concepts, tools, and language of modern project management. You’ll earn 8 project management education hours, which may count toward the CAPM® education requirement—making it an excellent first step on your certification journey.
Register Here
PMP® Exam Prep Readiness Boot Camp
February 23–27, 2026 | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Daily | $1,750
Ready to earn the gold standard in project management credentials? The PMP® certification is held by more than 1.3 million professionals globally and can increase your earning potential by 33% on average. This intensive five-day boot camp provides all 35 contact hours required by PMI® and prepares you to pass the PMP® exam on your first attempt.
Register Here
CAPM® Exam Prep Readiness Boot Camp
February 25–27, 2026 | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Daily | $1,100
Jump-start your project management career with the globally recognized CAPM® certification! This fast-paced, three-day boot camp is perfect for emerging project professionals ready to validate their foundational PM knowledge. No prerequisites required—just your commitment to learning. This course provides 23 project management education hours, fulfilling PMI’s full education requirement for the CAPM® exam.
Register Here
View All Upcoming Events
For a complete list of chapter events, meetings, and training opportunities, visit our events calendar:
📅 View the PMI Memphis Events Calendar
Questions?
If you have questions about any of our professional development offerings, registration, or certification eligibility, please reach out:
📧 duvollconstruction@gmail.com
📧 ambassador@901pmi.org
I look forward to seeing many of you in our upcoming sessions. Here’s to a year of growth, achievement, and new certifications!
Warm regards,
Sabrina Parker
VP, Professional Development
PMI Memphis Chapter
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Let’s Level Up Our Publications Game! 📬✨
Dear PMI Memphis Members,
Happy February 2026! As we settle into the new year, I want to say a huge thank you for your ongoing engagement and support. Your feedback, ideas, and active participation continue to fuel our chapter’s growth and make every newsletter worth the effort.
We’re already seeing great momentum from our record-breaking January meeting, and behind the scenes, the Publications team is hard at work delivering on our promise of enhancements. We’re testing new formats, integrating fresh tools from PMI Global, and refining ways to make your newsletter more dynamic, insightful, and reader-friendly. Early changes are rolling out soon—stay tuned for a smoother, more engaging read!
Now, to keep this momentum going strong, I’m excited to announce a Volunteer Opening on our Chapter Publications team!
We’re searching for our next Director of Publications—someone ready to step up and help shape the future of how we communicate with our members.
In this role, you’ll:
- Lead newsletter development and implement this year’s tech upgrades
- Create compelling content that informs, inspires, and connects our community
- Collaborate closely with me to align publications, communications, and marketing strategies for maximum impact
This is a fantastic chance to grow your leadership skills, earn valuable PDUs, enjoy great fellowship with fellow Directors, VPs, and members, and receive exclusive mentorship within PMI Memphis.
Who’s up for the challenge? If you’re passionate about storytelling, digital tools, project management comms, and building something meaningful together—let’s talk! Reach out to me directly at gus@901pmi.org or connect on LinkedIn. I’d love to chat about how you can make a real difference.
Together, we’re not just informing our chapter—we’re elevating it. Thank you for being part of this journey, and I look forward to seeing even more of you at this upcoming event (and hopefully welcoming our new Director soon!).
Warm regards,
Gus Rocha
VP of Publications
PMI Memphis Chapter
gus@901pmi.org
Connect with Gus on LinkedIn
Together, we’re building an even stronger chapter in 2026! 🚀
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🚀Time to Grow, Learn, and Explore! 🌱
Dear PMI Memphis Members,
As we settle into 2026 and build on the incredible energy from our record-breaking January meeting, your chapter sponsors are thrilled to be right here with you—cheering on every step of your professional adventure.
This is your time to grow your skills, learn from the best, and explore new horizons in project management. Whether it’s mastering emerging tools, tackling complex challenges with confidence, or forging connections that open unexpected doors, we’re proud to partner with PMI Memphis to make it all possible.
Through valuable resources, insightful events, exclusive opportunities, and unwavering support, our sponsors remain dedicated to helping you elevate your career, deliver standout results, and thrive in the Mid-South project world. Your dedication inspires us, and together we’re creating a community where innovation, leadership, and success flourish.
Here’s to seizing 2026: more bold ideas turned into reality, deeper expertise, wider networks, and endless possibilities!
Thank you for letting us invest in your journey—we’re honored to grow, learn, and explore alongside you.
With gratitude and excitement, Our Valued PMI Memphis Chapter Sponsors
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