RCMA STORIES: Dr. Harry Schmidt

HARRY SCHMIDT, RCMA CEO & President

I first attended an RCMA event in 1985. Right away, I realized this organization was the standard bearer. I remember feeling like a kid in a candy shop as I walked up and down the trade show aisles! The educational sessions were filled with ideas, information, and possibilities. I had found a community of like-minded people, one that I've loved ever since.

One of my favorite moments was when the great city of Chicago hosted RCMA's EMERGE conference a few years ago. As someone based in Chicago since 1968, this was an important moment in my life in a city I've loved for so long. To have our opening reception in the historic Field Museum, right next to the renowned T-Rex exhibit, is something I'll remember forever!

It is a joy to give back to the organization that gave so much to my life and to the events I've represented over the decades. I was incredibly honored to be invited to the RCMA board of directors 12 years ago. And now, to be able to help guide this organization forward is overwhelming and humbling.

I love the moments I have with our community. I'm a relational person; to me, RCMA is all about people. It's all about individuals. I just like being with them, hearing their stories, and being a part of their opportunities. To me, RCMA is a family. In a family, you support one another in celebration and sorrow. I've experienced this, receiving personal notes from planners and suppliers in moments of joy and tragedy. The connectedness of this caring community cannot be duplicated.

Everyone is special in RCMA. The moment you step into one of our meetings, you encounter a family filled with life and joy. You will meet people that want you to succeed, and you will feel successful. I have felt that over the last multiple decades. RCMA has allowed me to broaden my horizons and begin again.

As it has for the last 50 years, RCMA will continue to change and grow. We are people of faith, and faith is dynamic. Faith is always growing and changing. May we grow brighter and stronger together as we move toward the future.