Your event is too important to start anywhere else.
The reasons API has emerged so quickly as an authority on meeting and event planning are listed right here.
Our team of experienced professionals.
Management Team
Sales Team
Deb Wentz, President
Deb is the founder of API. Before starting the company, she spent 14 years in account management with some of the world's most prestigious hotels. She started API to gain equal leverage when negotiating with hotels. Since that time she has provided her clients with the expertise, guidance, protection and resources they expect. Deb is a graduate of University of Maryland and is a long-time member of multiple hospitality trade associations including MPI, ASAE, and PCMA.
Dana Schlichting, Vice President - Information Technology
Dana brings 19 years of technology experience to API from AAI and the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. His expertise in information technology is invaluable to providing API clients with the most efficient and secure services possible. Dana is a graduate of the University of Maryland and a member of IEEE.
Barbara Collurafici, Director of Creative Events
Barbara has been planning events for more than 30 years. She was instrumental in the development and success of several catering companies as well as her own business in the Baltimore/DC Metro Area. Her expertise in food and beverage management and event design gives API and its clients the advantage when planning and negotiating contracts.
Patricia Novak, Director of Operations & Quality Assurance
Pat has been managing events, conferences and meetings for more than 15 years. She has extensive insight into logistical operations, cost analysis and contract negotiations.
Andrea Berlinicke, Director of Financial Management
Andrea keeps everyone on track. She has more than 15 years of experience in Financial Management and Accounting Practices.
Brenda Swigart, Office Administrator
Brenda has extensive experience as a Contract Administrator and Consultant for a number of government agencies (DOE, FEMA, NASA, NOAA, CDC, US Army, Navy and Marine Corps, Aspen Systems and Computer Science Corporation).
Advisory Board
Working alongside our experienced team of professionals, offering guidance and counsel, is a trusted Advisory Board made up of industry leaders and experts. The Board includes representatives from every table, including individuals from convention centers, corporations, government agencies and large associations. They all bring the highest level of experience and knowledge to API, advising our planners throughout the entire process to ensure your success.
Memberships: Deb and API are members of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA).