PLANO, Texas — Events industry veteran Jason Ware passed away on June 24, 2026.
Ware’s more than 20-year career in the trade show industry included roles at Meeting Professionals International, the American Heart Association, the Cardiovascular Research Foundation and MCI USA.
“If there is one thing Jason Ware taught us, it’s this: Live fully, laugh often, celebrate others and always choose kindness,” Donna Johnson, CMP, CEM-AP, Vice President at MCI USA, said. “In honor of Jason, let’s all try to ‘Live Like Jason.’”
“Jason was the epitome of everything an ‘eventprof’ should be,” Carly Heideger, CEM, said. “He loved bringing people together, finding connection and creating magic. His entire goal in life was to find a way to raise the bar of an experience for you and to surprise you. He loved a touch of chaos. His impact on the MICE industry will extend far beyond the global meetings he planned. This industry was made for him and I hope his lessons of kindness and magic are what people carry forward.”
Starting in 2024, Ware worked as Vice President, Events and Experiences, at the International Association of Exhibitions & Events (IAEE)®.
He was responsible for the overall planning and execution of all IAEE and subsidiary-related events, developed new marketplace opportunities for Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition and strengthened industry relationships in partnership with IAEE’s sales, marketing and membership teams, and further developed attendee acquisition strategies.
“Jason’s impact on our industry extends far beyond the events he helped create,” Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM, IAEE President and CEO, said. “He was someone who genuinely cared about the people around him. Even while facing incredible personal challenges, Jason remained committed to serving our members and doing his very best every day. His strength, humility and unwavering dedication inspired all of us who had the privilege of working alongside him. He will be deeply missed, and our hearts are with his family, friends and everyone whose lives he touched.”
To read Ware’s obituary, click here.
