Linda Thompson Memorial Scholarship

ADMEI proudly administers the Linda Thompson Memorial Scholarship—an annual academic award honoring a beloved leader in the Destination Management Company (DMC) profession.

Each year, up to two $2,500 scholarships are awarded to hospitality students who are preparing for a career in the DMC industry. The application window runs from May through November, with recipients announced in December. Scholarship winners are also invited to attend the ADMEI Annual Conference—with hotel and airfare assistance provided—for an unforgettable opportunity to connect with industry leaders and peers.

Scholarship enrollment will reopen in spring/summer of 2026.

About Linda Thompson

Linda Thompson was the owner of Cappa and Graham, Inc. in San Francisco, CA and was a driving force in the development of the DMC Network. Linda dedicated herself to mentoring young professionals and raising the level of excellence in the DMC industry.

Not only did Linda run a successful DMC, she also advanced the industry by promoting educational programs and professional certifications. In addition, she was ahead of her time in the sustainability movement and incorporated environmentally ethical and “green” initiatives into her work.

The Linda Thompson Memorial Scholarship (LTMS) takes her leadership, positive spirit, and passion for the DMC industry and transcends it to a deserved student looking to pursue a degree in the hospitality field.

Please donate to the Linda Thompson Memorial Scholarship fund.

2026 Scholarship Winner

Leslie Conover is a senior graduating in May 2026 at Indiana University Indianapolis majoring in Tourism, Conventions, and Event Management. She currently serves as student chapter president for ADMEI and is actively involved in student leadership through Meeting Professionals International and Professional Convention Management Association. Leslie has gained hands-on experience through internships with Visit Indy, National FFA Organization, and Raybourn Group International. She is passionate about creating meaningful experiences and building a long term career in the events industry.

"I am so grateful to have been selected for this scholarship! The opportunity to attend the ADMEI Conference through this scholarship is helping shape my growth and expand my toolkit as an upcoming industry professional. I am thankful for the chance to connect, learn, and gain insight that is so relevant to today’s industry as I continue building my career in events."

--Leslie Conover