NATIONAL: Swoogo recently secured a $20 million Series B investment, led by Bain Capital. The funding will help the event management software implement a number of new developments this year, including a refreshed mobile app, new speaker management and exhibitor resource center modules, expanded customer support and more.

Clarion Events North America has promoted Mike Carlucci to executive vice president of revenue and customer delivery. In the new role, Carlucci will focus on driving revenue growth through sales effectiveness and customer engagement. He’ll serve as the primary contact for Clarion in all central operations relationships, including working with venues, decorators and exhibitor service partners.

ATLANTA: Mary J. Blige and Pepsi are teaming up for the inaugural Strength of a Woman Festival & Summit in partnership with Live Nation Urban, taking place in Atlanta from May 6-8. Intentionally held over Mother’s Day weekend, the festival is curated for and by women; a team of women is leading every arm of the festival, from production to communications. The festival will feature different components focusing on music, wellness, tech, beauty and financial literacy. Presale tickets are on sale today.

DALLAS/FORT WORTH: The Hilton Anatole has named Bruce Roy as general manager of the 1,606-room property, which has more than 600,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Roy previously served as general manager of the Hilton Boston Logan Airport and has 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry.

NEW YORK: Hudson River Park Friends raised $365,000 at its sixth annual Playground Committee Luncheon, hosted by Today Show co-host Sheinelle Jones on March 4. Honoring founding president Catherine Juracich and actor David Burtka, the luncheon featured music by DJ Mad Marj, a performance by Alyce Chan of Momcom NYC and a live auction led by Harry Santa-Olalla.