By Meghan McCarthy
Whether she’s planning a creative internal activity for staff or organizing a major community event, Ingegneri approaches each task with intention, always striving to make people feel seen and valued.
“I’m an experience creator and relationship builder,” she said—and it shows.
A Career Rooted in Connection
Ingegneri brings more than 20 years of diverse marketing experience to PMC. Before joining the team, she spent more than a decade as the marketing strategist for the Morris Arboretum and Gardens at the University of Pennsylvania.
“I liken my job to the four Ps: partnerships, promotions, PR, and parties,” she shared with a smile.
One of her most meaningful projects at the Arboretum was the annual Designer Scarecrow Contest. Ingegneri developed a strategic outreach plan that encouraged companies and organizations to participate as a team-building exercise. As a result, the number of exhibitors increased by more 40%, and revenue more than doubled.
The number of scarecrows grew to 50, each a testament to creativity and community. But it was the delight of the attendees that stuck with her most.
“I loved seeing families make lasting memories right before my eyes,” Ingegneri shared. “I knew the joy they experienced would forever be linked to the Arboretum, and I took pride in contributing to that.”
It was then that she realized: making memories was central to her professional fulfillment.
Moments that Matter
Ingegneri founded her own marketing consultant firm during the pandemic and focused primarily on event management. However, she found herself consumed by administrative work. She missed the joy that came from direct engagement, the gratification of creating memories.
With an unintended irony, she joined Penn Memory Center in 2023.
As the events assistant, Ingegneri imagines, plans, and manages internal team activities and public-facing community events.
Her goal is twofold: to boost morale and camaraderie among staff and to build bridges between PMC and the broader community through education and fundraising.
Specifically, Ingegneri has been responsible for the annual Research Participant Thank You Luncheon, Celebration of Hope Fundraiser, and monthly Memory Cafés for patients and care partners. She has also coordinated community outreach events, such as a film premiere and panel discussion, and staff holiday parties, small group meetings, and team building events.
“Events serve a dual purpose – creating memorable experiences and fostering meaningful connections, while also driving business growth,” Ingegneri explained.
This commitment to connection is at the heart of every event she plans, including the 2024 Celebration of Hope fundraiser. Ingegneri coordinated a robust program that included live and silent auctions, entertainment, and even an on-site artist demonstration. The evening hosted more than 100 guests and was designed not only to raise funds, but to create a meaningful and memorable experience for everyone involved.
Everything went smoothly, except for one unpredicted beverage preference amongst guests.
“We ran out of wine. So, after a quick discussion, a team member was sent to a local liquor store for 10 bottles,” Ingegneri remembers. “This is typical with events – something always goes sideways.”
That’s where Ingegneri shines. She’s resilient and quick-thinking, managing unpredictability with humor and grace.
Creating Connection from Within
One of Ingegneri’s favorite internal events was an appetizer contest. Staff cooked at home and competed with colleagues in a taste test. Prizes were awarded, but the deeper value wasn’t in the competition.
She knew the event sparked deeper meaning.
“Top down, my goal is to show staff that they are valued and appreciated,” Ingegneri stated. “Management wants to provide them opportunities to showcase and expand their talents and develop friendships with their colleagues to foster a positive and engaging work environment.”
For her, these moments, shared laughter, surprise, connection, are what bring lasting delight. Whether it’s a fundraiser, a staff gathering, or a quiet moment at a Memory Cafe, Ingegneri’s events are crafted to make people feel something meaningful.
Because more than the details or decorations, what she truly cherishes is the happiness of making memories.
“It’s often said about event coordination that if you’re doing your job well, then nobody knows you exist,” said Terrence Casey, Director of Communications and Outreach for PMC. “But Marie breaks this maxim. At Memory Cafés, staff lunches, and art festivals alike, Marie can always be found mingling with the crowd, wearing a big smile but secretly searching for even the smallest problems to solve. Her mix of joy and intentionality has transformed our programming.”
The Feeling That Stays
For Ingegneri, one important initiative is PMC’s Memory Cafés, monthly gatherings for patients and families. Here, she works to create a space that feels sacred and comforting.
“I don’t know that they’ll take a memory with them, but what I hope is that they’ll take away a feeling,” Ingegneri explained. “At the Memory Café, they are welcomed and held. That’s the feeling I want them to hold on to.”
Ingegneri’s efforts underscore a larger truth: it’s not just about events, it’s about relationships.
Ultimately, this begins with her own professional relationships at PMC. Reflecting on her time, she’s most grateful for the team’s support and openness.
“When I share ideas, people genuinely listen,” she said. “They help guide me in bringing those ideas to life. It’s a beautiful part of my personal growth—when you feel heard, it inspires you to do more.”
Marie Ingegneri has more than 20 years of experience in the marketing field with various positions in the discipline. This includes advertising, special events, sponsorship and brand management, and general marketing stewardship. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, getting lost in a good book, and impressing friends with her expert parallel parking skills.