Honoring Harry Schmidt at Emerge 2026

At Emerge 2026, we had the joy of honoring Dr. Harry Schmidt for more than 14 years of faithful leadership at RCMA. His steady presence, integrity, and genuine kindness have shaped our community in lasting ways.

Harry’s impact on RCMA is woven into who we are today. Through seasons of growth, challenge, reinvention, and renewal, he has led with integrity and clarity. He has shown up with wisdom when decisions felt complex, with courage when change was necessary, and with a genuine warmth that made people feel seen and valued.

Those of us who have worked alongside him have experienced that generosity firsthand. Harry does not simply lead an organization. He invests in people. He listens carefully. He encourages quietly. He strengthens the confidence of those around him. His leadership has shaped not only RCMA’s direction, but the lives and careers of so many within our community and across the wider meetings industry.

During our celebration at Emerge, colleagues and friends shared stories that reflected the same themes again and again. Steadiness. Vision. Faithfulness. Kindness. A deep commitment to the mission and to the people carrying it forward. The room was filled with gratitude, and it was clear that his legacy is not measured only in milestones, but in relationships.

We have created a special page where you can watch the videos from this celebration and hear directly from those whose lives and work have been enriched by Harry’s leadership. We hope you will take a few moments to revisit the joy of that gathering and to be inspired by a man whose example has strengthened our entire community.

With deep gratitude for the integrity, vision, and care Harry has brought to this work, and to all who have served alongside him, we honor his remarkable legacy and give thanks for the many ways he has shaped RCMA for the better.