Linda Thompson Memorial Scholarship
Offered by Association of Destination Management Executives International
About this scholarship
The Linda Thompson Memorial Scholarship supports a student building a career in destination management, meetings, or the events industry. The Association of Destination Management Executives International provides the selected recipient with $2,500 paid directly to the student’s university. The award also includes round-trip airfare, hotel accommodations, and an invitation to ADMEI’s February 21-23, 2027 annual conference in New Orleans. There, the scholar can assist with planning and onsite logistics, attend the awards gala, gain hands-on event experience, and network with industry professionals. The live application is open to a student who is enrolled or plans to enroll at an accredited college or university and is pursuing a relevant career; current paid DMC experience is not required. Applicants upload a PDF resume or CV, a recommendation from a professor or event-industry professional, and an essay of at least 250 words. The recommendation should address program completion, event experience, and aptitude for destination management. The essay covers industry knowledge, studies and goals, volunteer and extracurricular work, the award’s expected impact, and improvements the applicant would make to a recent event. An optional 45-60 second introduction video can earn extra consideration. The direct application must be submitted by midnight Eastern on November 1, 2026.
Eligibility
- Pursue a career in the destination management, meetings, or events industry
- Be enrolled or plan to enroll at an accredited college or university
- Upload a resume or CV as a PDF
- Provide a recommendation from a professor or an event-industry professional
- Write an English-language essay of at least 250 words addressing every listed topic
- Certify that the application and supporting materials are true and accurate
- Submit the direct application by midnight Eastern on November 1, 2026