Admission: $40.00 Member Early Bird (Ends April 13th)/$50.00 Guest/$50.00 Members after Early Bird Sponsored by HCA Healthcare In addition to our speaker, the Mount Pleasant Chamber will also be announcing our two recipients of the Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce Scholarship in Honor of Joe Brinson. Marissa Sams serves as the Executive Director for SC250 Charleston’s signature commemorative events, as well as CEO and founder of Marissa Sams Events (MSE). With more than 15 years of global event production and strategic leadership experience, Marissa has planned and executed events on five continents - ranging from intimate cultural gatherings to large-scale corporate rallies. She has supported projects across many industries, technology, space exploration, defense, and global health. The mission of MSE is to curate experiences that facilitate meaningful conversations, foster connections, and drive lasting change. Drawing on a deep understanding of cultural nuances and international protocols, Marissa excels at navigating the complexities of organizing events involving a variety of stakeholders. MSE works with a diverse portfolio of clients, including Arianespace, Marriott International, Boeing, the New York Public Library, Lowcountry Land Trust, and the Sundance Film Festival. Noteworthy past events include the Grand Openings for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture as well as the International African American Museum. Known for her vision, creativity, and depth of experience, Marissa’s clients value her ability to bring together internal and external stakeholders and lead every stage of the strategic planning and implementation process. Prior to the events industry, Marissa worked in public diplomacy at the U.S. Department of State, planning public affairs initiatives, town halls, and international leadership forums, all of which helped her to create powerful, lasting experiences.