As the CEO of AEIO, LLC (AEIO, pronounced “EYE-oh”), Dionne Word is responsible for all facets of the company and ensuring that each division possesses the resources necessary to succeed. Since founding the company as a conference and event management firm more than 20 years ago, AEIO has expanded under her leadership – both organically and through acquisition – into information technology (IT) and human capital management services. AEIO’s growth also includes establishing a bi-coastal presence with offices in Washington, DC and Los Angeles, CA. Her vision for the company is evident in its name and driven by her commitment to Assertiveness, Excellence, Innovation, and Outstanding customer service.

Prior to AEIO, Dionne served as Vice President of ePerience, an IT and program management firm supporting government and commercial clients. Her responsibilities included managing corporate finances and all back-office operations (contracts, procurement, HR, quality control, etc.). She previously served as the Senior Meeting Planner for The Ashantii Ballroom, a privately-owned conference and event venue in Indianapolis, IN. Dionne negotiated approximately $1M in total event sales contracts for small to large sized events (1 to 1,000 guests) for corporate meetings, for-profit and nonprofit organization meetings, concerts, as well as weddings.

After initially attending Bennett College, Dionne went on to earn her BA in Business Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University. She is active philanthropically, supporting women’s initiatives including the Women in Golf Foundation and Baptist Women in Ministry. Dionne is also a committed advocate for youth, supporting Project Elijah Empowering Autism and being a founding member of a scholarship fund at her alma mater, E.E. Smith High School in Fayetteville, NC, which supports graduates attending HBCUs.