The Meetings Industry Council of Colorado (MIC) proudly recognized four outstanding leaders at this year’s Ignite Awards Reception, celebrating individuals whose contributions continue to elevate the meetings and hospitality industry across Colorado.
Each award highlights a different dimension of impact, from leadership and innovation to service and community building, reflecting the collective strength of the MIC network.
Chair Award: John Moritz
The Chair Award was presented to John Moritz, Manager of Meetings & Events at Destinations International, for his leadership as Director of Serving Up Hope.
This award honors individuals who bring not only structure and leadership to their work, but also heart, purpose, and a commitment to impact beyond the industry itself.
Under John’s leadership, Serving Up Hope achieved a record-breaking year, raising more than $68,000 to support families facing food insecurity. His approach combines strategic clarity with humility, always centering the mission and the people it serves.
John was quick to recognize the dedicated committee behind the event, reinforcing that meaningful impact is always the result of collective effort.
Chair Award: Serving Up Hope Committee
In addition to individual leadership, MIC also honored the Serving Up Hope Committee with a second Chair Award, recognizing the collective effort behind the event’s success.
Serving Up Hope brought together more than 425 industry professionals and delivered the largest contribution in the event’s history, with 100% of proceeds benefiting Food Bank of the Rockies.
From planning and partnerships to execution and engagement, the committee demonstrated what true collaboration looks like in action.
Serving Up Hope shines as an example of can happen when a movement is fueled by industry professionals committed to making a difference together.
Volunteer of the Year: Lauren Lacy
The Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Lauren Lacy, Director of Sales & Marketing at Hotel Colorado and Representative for Destination Colorado.
This award celebrates individuals whose behind-the-scenes dedication strengthens the entire community.
Often described as a “quiet doer,” Lauren consistently leads through action. She volunteers across multiple organizations and reliably steps in wherever support is needed.
Her contributions were especially evident during Serving Up Hope, where she helped lead the Wine Toss activation, generating additional funds to support families in need.
Lauren’s steady commitment and selfless service exemplify the power of showing up and making a difference.
Leadership Award: Angela “Fig” Wirkler
The Leadership Award was presented to Angela “Fig” Wirkler, Vice President of Sales at Visit Boulder.
This award recognizes leaders who actively shape the future of the industry through service, mentorship, and collaboration.
Fig’s impact spans years of involvement across multiple boards and organizations, where she has consistently worked to strengthen the professional community. She leads with integrity, empathy, and a belief in the power of connection.
Most notably, Fig played a key role in helping bring the Sundance Film Festival to Colorado, a significant achievement that required vision, persistence, and collaboration on a global scale.
Her leadership continues to inspire others and position Colorado as a premier destination for world-class events.
Innovation Award: “Banners to Bags” initiative at Newtopia Now Denver 2025
The MIC Innovation Award was presented to the “Banners to Bags” initiative at Newtopia Now Denver 2025, and accepted by Jeff D’Entremont, Senior Vice President at Informa Markets for Health & Nutrition.
This award recognizes events and leaders who push boundaries and rethink how experiences are designed and delivered.
The “Banners to Bags” initiative transformed event materials into functional, sustainable assets, demonstrating how thoughtful innovation can enhance both the attendee experience and environmental responsibility.
By reimagining what is possible within existing event structures, this work represents a forward-thinking approach to sustainability and design.
A Community That Thrives Together
The Ignite Awards reflect more than individual achievement but represent the collective spirit of an industry rooted in collaboration, service, and innovation.
From record-breaking fundraising and quiet volunteerism to global leadership and creative reinvention, this year’s honorees demonstrate what is possible when a community comes together and converges with purpose.
As MIC continues to evolve, these leaders remind us that the future of our industry is built both on ideas and by people willing to step forward and make an impact.
