2025 SITE Mountain West
Board of Directors

President

Meredith Phillips

My hospitality career began at Aspen Mountain Lodge, where I spent five years learning all aspects of hotel sales and operations - while also enjoying ski breaks and falling in love with Colorado!  In 2009, I joined The Gant’s sales team, advancing to Director of Sales. In 2021, I became Account Director for the MICE market at Club Med, representing 70 properties globally, exploring new destinations, and engaging with SITE. I love building trust, fostering partnerships, and creating memorable experiences — all values that I deeply appreciate within the SITE Mountain West community. When not traveling or meeting clients, I enjoy life in Castle Rock, Colorado, exploring open spaces and discovering great local restaurants.

Past President

Lisa Kincannon Cherry 

Lisa is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of expertise in customer service, event management, and leadership development within the incentive travel and events industry. As the owner of Opus Event Solutions, she has built a reputation for successfully managing high-impact programs and cultivating meaningful relationships across the industry. A founding member and President (2021-2024) of SITE Mountain West, Lisa played a pivotal role in the chapter’s growth and strategic direction. Well known for her creativity and problem-solving abilities, she has championed initiatives in sustainability, education, and mentorship. Lisa’s dedication to excellence, collaborative spirit, and passion for empowering Young Leaders have established her as a respected leader in her field.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Lisa is deeply committed to community service. She serves as President of her HOA and has contributed as a volunteer with the I Have a Dream Foundation and Boulder’s HOA Healthy Environment Committee.
Lisa resides in Boulder, Colorado, where she enjoys embracing all that the region has to offer.

President Elect 

Deanne Vigil

Deanne Vigil joined HelmsBriscoe in 2009, bringing extensive experience in strategic site selection and contract negotiation. She provides leadership, support, and strategic direction to the Northern California team of Associates, including recruitment efforts. A top performer, Deanne has achieved the prestigious HelmsBriscoe President’s Club designation since 2011. She has also been recognized with Master’s Club awards in 2015, 2018, and 2021-2022, the Executive Club in 2023, and was named Associate of the Year in 2016. These accolades reflect her outstanding reputation among HelmsBriscoe’s hotel and destination partners.

Before joining HelmsBriscoe, Deanne accumulated 19 years of hospitality experience with brands such as Omni, Marriott, Hilton, and independent hotels across the United States. She resides in Park City, Utah, with her husband and two Weimaraners.

Vice-President Finance 

Kelley Lefferdink 

Sales in the hospitality industry came as second nature to me, after having a long career in real estate sales in Rancho Santa Fe, CA. I loved that I was able to switch into selling dreams and inspiring vacations where teams could come together and bond in their experiences. Having been in the hospitality industry for 9+ with 3D Cruise Partners, I have had the opportunity to meet many industry professionals, learn all about amazing destinations, and travel the world. SITE has been a huge foundation for my career as I encountered many colleagues who are passionate about their work, and enjoy all they do! This industry and SITE, in particular, have helped me learn that I can work hard, create lasting friendships, and LOVE my job. When I am not exploring or traveling, I enjoy hanging out with my six kids and our super-cute new puppy, taking walks, and meeting with friends.

Vice-President Membership

Stephanie Callie 

I’m Steph Callie, Event Manager with Beacon Event and Incentive Management. I’m grateful to have found SITE Mountain West as it has provided opportunities to build connections with inspiring, like-minded professionals while giving back the industry! I believe we have the power in our day-to-day connections to be impactful and bring light, kindness, and authenticity to those we work with. I love living in Utah (and doing all things outdoors) and welcoming planners, suppliers and industry professionals to the incredible community that is SITE Mountain West!

Vice-President Marketing & Communications

Julie Tenge

Julie serves as Vice President of Marketing & Communications and is a Senior Sales Executive at the five-star, five-diamond Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Beach, California. With 20 years in hospitality, she specializes in global group business and building meaningful connections. Previously, Julie was Senior Director of Global Sales for CoralTree Hospitality, earning the 2024 Smart Women in Meetings "Innovator Award." She also excelled as a Senior Sales Manager with Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, ranking 4th in the Americas for revenue in 2016. A CMP for 20 years and CITP since 2021, Julie actively participates in MPI, SITE, HSMAI, and FICP. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, she enjoys volunteering, hiking, yoga, and exploring Mexico’s vibrant culture.

Vice-President Events

Christie Pienaar 

Christie Pienaar began her hospitality career after graduating from Cornell in 2002. She started in a management training program at The Colonnade in Boston, gaining experience in operations, front desk, banquets, and restaurants. This foundation led her to luxury hotels, including planning weddings at The Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City and overseeing events like galas and financial forums at the Renaissance DC.

In 2005, Christie discovered her passion for sales after moving to San Diego. She worked with Destination Hotels & Resorts and Leading Hotels of the World before landing her dream role at Preferred Hotels & Resorts in 2011. Twice promoted, she now oversees the SoCal & Southwest regions, special projects, and mentorship. Her core values are integrity, trust, and excellence.

Vice-President Young Leaders

Merissa Batz 

I’m Merissa, a Global Account Executive at Elevated Meeting Solutions. I specialize in venue selection, contract negotiations, and on-site meeting management, ensuring my clients and their teams shine at their meetings and incentives. Promoting wellness is a passion of mine, and I’m proud to share Elevated’s wellness platform to create meaningful and impactful group experiences. Before joining Elevated, I gained valuable experience at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, where I honed my skills in contract negotiation, client communication, and event execution. Serving as the VP of Young Leaders for SITE Mountain West has been incredibly rewarding. It’s an honor to empower the next generation of industry professionals while building lasting connections.

Vice-President Sustainability 

Inna Cramer 

I have been in the travel and tourism industry for over thirty years. You could say I grew up in it. I am so passionate about travel and what a positive impact it has on a person. I started my career with Walt Disney Company in Orlando, Florida right out of college. I had many roles however fell in love with Sales, building and nurturing relationships and working with a fantastic team representing amazing product. When I started working for Rocky Mountaineer, I was so fortunate to build on my experience, work with passionate and dedicated team and world class product – luxury rail in both Canadian Rockies and American Southwest – Colorado and Utah.  One of my key responsibilities is developing our strategy for MICE business. I have been so fortunate to engage with SITE Mountain West. This is an incredible chapter and it's amazing members are so dedicated to education and connections within the Incentive travel industry. I am very passionate about sustainability and the difference we can make as professionals and individuals. On a personal note, I love travel, spending time with my family and friends and exploring the beauty of Colorado.

Director Membership

Austin Bagwell

With over 20+ years of experience in the hospitality industry I now currently serve as the Executive Vice President of Hospitality Sales for Fontainebleau Development, a premier real estate & hospitality development group. In this role, I spearhead sales efforts, brand awareness, MICE Strategy, and synergy for group convention customers at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Fontainebleau Las Vegas, JW Marriott Turnberry, Hilton Nashville, the future Westin MIA property, as well as other Fontainebleau Development entities. SITE has always been a driving factor to my success in our industry and I look forward to continuing to serve on the SITE Mountain West board to ensure our members find equal value, enjoyment, and pride in being part of our community.

Director Marketing & Communications 

Michelle Flowers

I’m Michelle Flowers, Sr. Director of Event Management at Maritz. I’ve been fortunate enough to spend 24 years in the industry supporting a diverse group of clients all around the globe. I have a passion for operational excellence and look at every event, function and interaction as an opportunity to share best practices, stretch our teams and grow. I absolutely love this industry and the professionals I get the pleasure to work with. I am so honored to be a part of the SITE Mountain West Board and to be of service in continuing to grow this thriving chapter. On a personal note, I enjoy life in sunny AZ soaking up all the outdoors has to offer alongside my 3 older children.

Director Social Media 

Tiffany Shindler 

Hi, I’m Tiffany Shindler! With nearly 20 years in the meetings and incentive events industry, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to craft unforgettable experiences across the world. Now, I’m thrilled to channel that energy into bringing fresh, inspiring content to our amazing members, prospective members, and partners. As we grow the Mountain West Chapter, I’m eager to learn, collaborate with peers, and build connections with passionate professionals who share my love for this industry. What excites me most? Creating chapter events that truly engage and unite our community, all while elevating the incentive experience. SITE is such a dynamic organization, and I can’t wait to dive into all the exciting plans we have for the year ahead!

Event Support - Utah 

Heidi Stevenson 

Heidi brings a diverse background to the hospitality industry that has spanned the last 20 years and is the proud owner of Stevenson International. Heidi's passion lies in helping others create lifelong travel memories whether it be through incentives, meetings, or conference travel.  She has spent the last nine years as a dedicated Sales Manager in the Travel Industry.  She has had an extensive career in business, finance, and healthcare in addition to her travel pursuits. Heidi's extensive background lends helpful insight to clients across many sectors.  When Heidi is not traveling the world, she can be found attending the theatre, fishing, golfing, and spending time with family.