2019 40 Under 40: Megan Johnston, Accent Indy

Megan Johnston discusses her quick rise to the 40 Under 40 via Accent Indy.

Megan Johnston, CSEP, DMCP, 27, works in Indianapolis as director of event services at Accent Indy, a DMC Network Company. As a 2019 40 Under 40 honoree, Johnston discusses her passion for the events industry. 

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What I do: sell and operate for the only accredited Destination Management Company in Indiana. I help clients make their dream program come to fruition while using my local expertise and buying power to make sure the program is logistically sound and on budget. Program components range from décor to offsite events, transportation, tours, entertainment and teambuilding.

How I got here: While studying hospitality and food management at Ball State University, I had to complete a job shadow, so I made a cold call to Accent. It was that cold call that earned me two summer internships that would eventually lead to a full-time gig with Accent in 2013. And, if you ask my bosses, it was that cold call and follow-up that set the bar for future applicants with Accent.

Greatest career accomplishment: Being awarded Destination Management Rising Star by the Association of Destination Management Executives International in 2019.

Impressive stats: I have played a key role in the selling and operating more than 165 programs during my tenure with Accent.

What I do outside of work: I’ve sat on the Indiana Chapter of the International Live Events Association since 2014. I’m currently serving as the president of the chapter. In my free time, you can find me hanging out with my puppy, Buckeye!