The Convention Industry Council (CIC) welcomed new APEX Commission members Christie Hicks and Maura Gast.

Christie Hicks, Senior Vice President of Global Sales for Starwood Hotels, has played an active role in APEX from the initiative’s inception and will represent the housing sector of the industry.

Maura Gast, Executive Director of the Irving Convention & Visitors Bureau, is an enthusiastic supporter of APEX and will represent the convention bureau sector.

“I'm very excited about these two women joining the APEX commission,” said Terri Breining, APEX Commission Chair.

“They are smart, accomplished, and connected leaders in the meeting industry. I know that their participation will help us with our efforts to keep the APEX marketing and implementation process moving forward.”

The Commission is charged with driving the implementation and adoption of voluntary standards developed through the Accepted Practices Exchange (APEX), an initiative of the Convention Industry Council.

These standards will create and enhance efficiencies throughout the meetings, conventions, and exhibitions industry.