Atlanta Event Executive Earns Regional Recognition
William Fogler, founder and principal of WM Events, has been named a finalist for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 Southeast Award by Ernst & Young LLP (EY US). The recognition places Fogler among 35 finalists selected by an independent panel of judges based on entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, company growth and lasting impact in building long-term value.
"Being selected as an Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 Southeast finalist is an honor and a testament to the importance of purpose and integrity in structuring a business," said Fogler. "More than 20 years ago, my goal was to launch a values-driven organization where people love to come to work. Today, we create joyful experiences that bring people together, and our values inspire every level of the team and each decision that is made."
Two Decades of Event Excellence
Founded in 2004, WM Events operates as an elevated event house that handles consulting, planning, design and production of corporate events, fundraisers, meetings, tradeshow design and private affairs. Under Fogler's leadership, the Atlanta-based firm has produced more than 2,000 events and earned recognition from regional and national industry associations.
The company has built a client roster that includes major Atlanta professional sports teams—the Braves, Falcons, Hawks, and United—alongside corporate clients such as Delta Air Lines, Google, NCR and University of Georgia. WM Events has established a reputation for both creative and logistical expertise across hundreds of client relationships.
Award Program Recognizes Business Innovation
Now in its 41st year, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program celebrates leaders who disrupt markets and drive economic growth through innovation. The program honors original founders who bootstrapped their businesses, transformational CEOs who infused innovation into existing organizations, and multigenerational family business leaders who reimagined legacy business models.
This year's Southeast finalists represent Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee across industries including technology, consumer products, manufacturing and finance. Regional award winners will be announced on June 18 during a celebration in Charlotte, North Carolina, with winners becoming lifetime members of the Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni community and advancing to consideration for national awards presented in November at the Strategic Growth Forum.
Based on reporting by Exhibitor Magazine. Read the original article.