The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community…
Association Brain Food won’t be in your inbox next Friday (May 16) because next week I’m in New Mexico and Texas for a family hiking vacation. You’ll get the next edition on Friday, May 23. In the meantime, brace yourself, it’s a long one today.
“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.” —J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit
Microcredentials. Apti explains why associations are perfectly positioned to develop and deliver microcredentialing programs and digital badges. These programs help employers bridge industry skills gaps and help members acquire and display mastery of new skills and knowledge.
Recruiting awards judges. OpenWater shares proven strategies for recruiting judges for an association awards program, even if members say they’re too busy. Their step-by-step guide explains how to find qualified volunteers, secure their commitment, and make things easier for you next year.
Membership renewals. MGI offers strategies to increase renewals, based on 40 years of membership marketing experience and over a decade of surveying associations for their membership benchmark report. Their guide covers reasons members don’t renew, renewal campaigns (and mistakes), channels, testing, grace periods, and metrics.
Membership value. For the Canadian Society of Association Executives, Chris Vaughan of Sequence Consulting describes how associations can stand out in a competitive landscape by shifting their focus from transactional benefits to transformational value. Compare what your association offers to his suggestions.
Advocacy. Dean West of Association Laboratory believes the decades-old association advocacy model is ripe for revolution. He says the policy environment we’re in is marked by speed and unpredictability, but these characteristics do not favor associations.
Limited resources. NetForum offers insights and strategies for addressing four challenges associations face when they’re compelled to do more with less: inefficient processes, staff shortages, technology limitations, and budget constraints.
Association influencers. “People are moved by narrative over marketing—by connection over campaign,” says Lowell Aplebaum of Vista Cova. If members aren’t responding to your messaging and investing their time and resources in your programs, think about growing your own influencers. Members are more likely to respond to the stories of peers and colleagues they trust.
Website traffic. SEO industry research predicts a decline in organic search traffic. Cale Pissarra at Zeelo says if clicks dry up, trust becomes the biggest conversion factor. People remember the brand that taught them something, not the one that once ranked first. Yes, a plug for thoughtful, useful content.
Snacks
Forget what you’ve learned about Gen Z. He means it and gives you a preview of the backlash to come. | Jamie Notter, Propel
Hikers make a stunning discovery of a $340,000 gold hoard in Czech mountains—maybe I’ll find something next week in the Guadalupe Mountains. | Richard Whiddington, Artnet
A recent survey found an eagerness among associations to use AI and other options to bolster their education programs, but they’re uncertain about cost and implementation. | Mark Athitakis, Associations Now
Stop tripping over the rug: why familiar obstacles are still holding your association back. | Sherry Budziak, .orgSource
When the ice cream turns sour: the neuroscience of experience fatigue and what makes an event experience stick. | David Adler, Living Room Labs
A primer on Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) for B2B marketers. | Viola Eva, Flow
You never grow old at the table
Here’s an easy one for a weeknight dinner, although you need to marinate ahead of time: chicken shawarma. Hummus would be a great accompaniment, but I never got around to making any last weekend. I thought about couscous as a side, but didn’t think we needed the starch. Instead, we had the old standby: broccoli roasted with red onion and garlic powder.
We also enjoyed another regular: flounder with spiced breadcrumb topping. This time, my topping included red bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, and garlic. On the side, a nuked sweet potato and leftover cole slaw.
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About CAE credits: Per ASAE, “any continuing professional education offered by any professional entity may be accepted toward the [CAE] professional development requirement as long as it is directly related to either association or nonprofit management as defined by the CAE exam content outline.”
Education providers: If you have a free webinar or event coming up, please send me the link by Wednesday afternoon the week before it’s scheduled. I’m happy to feature it as long as it’s not product-centric.
Mon 5/12 at 8 a.m.* – Association Partnerships Fuel Growth! (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)
Every week, Rogue Tulips brings the nonprofit community intriguing guests discussing vital topics affecting nonprofit organizations around the world—and we have fun doing it! Episodes are published Monday mornings in both audio and video format, available on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast (to name a few!).
Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, CNP, principal and founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting
Guest: Edessa Polzin, American Marketing Association
*All events are online at Eastern Daylight Time unless otherwise noted.
Mon 5/12 at 1 p.m. – Crafting Your Research Agenda: Key Insights and Best Practices
Explore actionable strategies for leveraging data to drive impactful decisions. Connect with association leaders and discover best practices for developing and implementing a research agenda. Discuss the key elements to your research strategy; creating surveys that deliver actionable, reliable insights; and keeping a pulse on market trends and ensuring your research is aligned with shifts in the industry to stay ahead of the curve. More info/register.
Host: McKinley Advisors
Facilitators: Patrick Glaser, M.A., MPA, McKinley Chief Practice Officer and Candace Vanderpoel, M.A., McKinley Practice Director
Mon 5/12 from 5 to 7 p.m. – Association Young Professionals Reception (Washington DC)
Come network with the AWTC community of women and allies. All are welcome. This IRL opportunity to socialize and network with your industry peers is brought to you by the generous support of our sponsors. Location: Washington DC. More info/register.
Organizer: Association Women Technology Champions
Mon 5/12 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. – MMC + Tech Happy Hour 2025 (Washington DC)
Join us right outside the DC convention center for a fun evening of networking and socializing with fellow young professionals following ASAE’s MMC + Tech conference. This in-person event offers a relaxed and casual setting to connect with like-minded peers, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships. More info/register.
Organizer: ASAE Young Professionals Advisory Committee
Tue 5/13 at 12 p.m. – Uncommon Strategies for Creating Thriving Online Community Engagement
Does it feel like there are too many lurkers, not enough participation, and few substantive conversations in your online community? Learn how to raise the energy in your community so your members can get the conversation started. Discover a few straightforward yet powerful strategic processes you can apply right away or implement with your team. Begin shaping a member culture that aligns with your community’s unique needs and dynamics. Walk away with actionable strategies to encourage participation, transforming passive observers into engaged, enthusiastic contributors. More info/register.
Host: GrowthZone
Speaker: Amanda Kaiser, Keynote Speaker, Author, and Engagement Strategist
Tue 5/13 at 12 p.m. – Transformational HR: Strategic human resources for a growing organization
Growing successfully means relying on people – i.e. your staff – to deliver. And behind these people there is always a capable Chief People Officer and CEO with vision. So this month, let’s talk people: from “Personnel” to “HR” to “People”—what’s next; people strategy, strategic planning, and succession planning; employee experience and company culture; and team alignment and professional development that fuels the organization. More info/register.
Host: Braintrust Professional Institute
Tue 5/13 at 12 p.m. – Tech Tuesday: MMC+Tech LIVE!
The hosts will chat live from MMC+Tech with content gurus, attendees soaking up all the knowledge, and amazing volunteers who make it all happen. The spotlighting will be on transformative technologies and strategies that are revolutionizing how associations elevate member engagement, craft impactful communications, leverage strategic marketing, design transformative events, and deliver elevated education. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Hosts: Reggie Henry of ASAE and Dave Coriale of DelCor
Tue 5/13 at 12 p.m. – LGBTQIA2+ 2025 Community Call
A unique and inclusive opportunity for association professionals across all career stages to connect and engage over lunch and a space where you can openly share and discuss topics that are current and significant to the LGBTQIA2+ association community. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE LGBTQ Association Executives and Supporters
Tue 5/13 at 2 p.m. – How to Unleash Your Event AI Agent Assistant
Whether you are already an AI master or just ChatGPT curious, we have gathered the experts to talk about the resources that could make you exponentially more efficient and the red flags to watch out for in the race to adoption. Learn tips for asking the right questions, new ways to use the tools, including data analysis, and what could be in store over the next 12 months and beyond. More info/register.
Host: Smart Meetings
Speakers:
- Chantal Sturk-Nadeau, Vice President, SPARK and PCMA Insights
- Tim Hines, Keynote Speaker, Business Coach & fCMO, Marketing Starter Group
- Margaret Launzel-Pennes, Chief Visioneer, POP | X
Wed 5/14 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. CDT – Various Approaches to Maintenance of Certification (Chicago IL)
Maintenance of certification (MOC) is a key component to ensure the integrity of the certification program. The onus on certification organizations is to develop pathways that both assure continued competence and meet the needs and characteristics of the certified population. Explore trends and approaches related to MOC. Whether you are considering changes, seeking accreditation, or finding what works best for your certification program, this session will reinforce best practices and present options for alternative approaches in the MOC landscape. Location: Chicago IL. More info/register.
Host: Certification Network Group
Speakers:
- Christine D. Niero, PhD (moderator), Vice President, Professional Testing, Inc.
- Adrienne W. Cadle, PhD, Vice President, Credentialing, Professional Testing, Inc.
- Kevin Patrick, Director, Program Development, American Board of Medical Specialties
- Robert Mahlman, MA, PMP, I.C.E. – CCP, Director, Certification and Credentialing National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
- Ye Ma, PhD, Senior Psychometrician , Amazon Web Services
Wed 5/14 at 11 a.m. – Outsourcing Survey for Associations & Why it Matters
Hear about the latest findings from a groundbreaking outsourcing survey with two powerhouse voices in the industry: Shameka Jennings, CEO of EventsNoire, and Dana Freker Doody, founder of Inktide Solutions. Together, they explore what smart outsourcing looks like in 2025—from event strategy to marketing to operations—and how association leaders can make bold, values-aligned decisions that future-proof their organizations. This isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s about amplifying impact. More info/register.
Host: KiKi L’Italien, Editor-in-Chief, Association Chat, and VP of Marketing and Community Engagement, Big Red M
Wed 5/14 at 11 a.m. – The Growth Mindset: How Nonprofits Can Thrive Despite Limited Resources
Many nonprofit leaders assume that limited resources mean limited growth—but that doesn’t have to be the case. Learn to evaluate strategies to drive growth and deliver results that exceed stakeholders’ expectations, eevelop growth-oriented mindsets and well-aligned teams, analyze members’ motivations and deepen understanding, design products and services that address members’ priorities, and establish outcomes-focused strategies and high-impact go-to-market plans that inspire members and bolster brand prestige. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: UST Education
Speaker: Henry Stoever, Founder & Managing Principal at Windsor Strategy
Wed 5/14 at 11:30 a.m. – World Café: Trust-Building Across Borders: Critical Skills for Association Professionals
Explore the nuances of trust-building in global contexts, using the Trust Triangle framework from Begin with Trust by Frances Frei and Anne Morriss. Examine how Authenticity, Logic, and Empathy play out in different cultural settings. Hear real-life examples of building (and losing) trust across borders. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE International Associations Advisory Council
Speakers:
- Melissa Heeke, CAE, Associate Executive Director, Raybourn Group International
- Sylvia Gonner, CAE, President and Owner, CultureWiz
- Pietro Macchiarella, CAE, Data and Insights COE Director, Young Presidents’ Organization
- Matt Riley, CAE, Executive Director, American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers
- Michiel Gen, Partner – Stakeholder Management, Exempla Management & Consulting
Wed 5/14 at 12 p.m. – Chapter Roundtable: Mini-Mastermind Sessions for Chapter-Based Organizations in Washington, DC
Join us for a complimentary, power lunch for component relations professionals who want the knowledge and benefits of group discussions with fellow association professionals from organizations with chapters, components, sections, branches, or state affiliates. These are non-formal and designed for busy professionals like you, however it works for you: come late, leave early, share, don’t share. Don’t worry: our lunches are peer-driven and anything but boring. You’ll leave with actionable ideas, insights, and inspirations you can put to work right away. Location: Washington DC. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: re:Members
Wed 5/14 at 1 p.m. – Meeting Design for Next-Gen Attendees: A Fresh Approach
Explore hotel and destination choices that align with the values and preferences of younger attendees; room setups that promote engagement; food and beverage trends that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences; speakers who inspire, resonate with, and motivate a younger audience; entertainment that adds a memorable ‘wow’ factor to your events; and networking opportunities that encourage genuine connections and engagement. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.
Host: Prevue Meetings
Speakers:
- Patricia Valerio, Meeting Supervisor at Eversana
- Emily Parsons-Walker, M.S., CIS, Event Specialist at Society for Incentive Travel Excellence
- Michelle Holdeman, VP Sales & Development at Food for Thought
Wed 5/14 at 1 p.m. – Just in Time: Economic and Travel Outlook Amid Federal Policy Shifts
As federal policy continues to evolve, so too does the economic landscape—bringing both challenges and opportunities for associations and the sectors they represent. From inflation and interest rates to shifting regulations and workforce dynamics, the ripple effects are far-reaching. Hear expert insights and practical guidance to help your association plan with confidence. More info/register (free for members only).
Host: ASAE
Speakers:
- Aran Ryan, Director of Industry Studies, Oxford Economics
- Joshua Friedlander, Vice President, Research, U.S. Travel Association
- Virginie De Visscher, Executive Director, Business Events, Destination Canada
- Ahmed Farruk, CIMA, Partner, Regional Director and Senior Consultant, Fiducient Advisors
Wed 5/14 at 1:30 p.m. – Data-Driven Decision-Making for Nonprofits & Membership Organizations
Hear about real-world ways nonprofits and membership organizations can use data to inform decisions, improve efficiency, and deepen engagement. You don’t need a data science team or new tools to get started. You just need a plan. Learn how to build a communications strategy informed by clean, actionable data; how to use segmentation to improve retention and fundraising results; how to use data to personalize experiences and increase renewals; what a data health check looks like and why it matters; how to automate time-consuming tasks and get more from your existing systems; and how to combine strategy and infrastructure for long-term impact. More info/register.
Hosts: Fíonta and Firefly Partners
Wed 5/14 at 3 p.m. – How Coaching Can Elevate Your Leadership at Any Level
Coaching is a game-changer for young professionals looking to grow, navigate career transitions, and tackle challenges with confidence. Hear real success stories about how coaching has helped young professionals’ level up in their careers and personal lives. Dive into key moments when working with a coach can make all the difference, like landing a promotion, overcoming obstacles, or setting bold long-term goals. Discover what makes an effective coaching relationship, how to set clear expectations, and ways to measure success. More info/register.
Host: ASAE
Speakers:
- Cicely Anderson (facilitator), Founder & President, Life Purpose Architects
- Ashley Pak, Director of Learning Operations, International Coaching Federation
- Jeremy Kestler, Executive Coach, Kestler Coaching and Learning
- Michael Pereira, Marketing Manager, School Nutrition Association
- Jen Lewi, Executive Coach & Career Strategist, Design Your Next Step™
- Karen Bernstein, Vice President of Learning & Development, International Coaching Federation.
Wed 5/14 at 6 p.m. – Reimagining Conferences: More Connection, Less Lecture
Conferences are full of potential—so why do they often feel flat and forgettable? This interactive session is for facilitators, planners, speakers, and attendees who want more connection and less passive listening. We’ll use Liberating Structures to uncover what gets in the way of authentic engagement and generate practical ways to make conferences more participatory and energizing. More info/register.
Host: Better Meetings
Facilitators:
- Lee Gimpel, founder, Better Meetings
- Barb Bickford, founder, Bickford Collaboration
Thu 5/15 at 12 p.m. – Chapter Roundtable: Mini-Mastermind Sessions for Chapter-Based Organizations in Tysons Corner, VA
Join us for a complimentary, power lunch for component relations professionals who want the knowledge and benefits of group discussions with fellow association professionals from organizations with chapters, components, sections, branches, or state affiliates. These are non-formal and designed for busy professionals like you, however it works for you: come late, leave early, share, don’t share. Don’t worry: our lunches are peer-driven and anything but boring. You’ll leave with actionable ideas, insights, and inspirations you can put to work right away. Location: McLean VA. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: re:Members
Thu 5/15 at 12 p.m. – Inclusive by Design: Ensuring Accessible & Equitable Online Training
Accessible course modules reflect your association’s commitment to equity and social responsibility and broaden your reach to a more diverse audience, including aging learners and those using assistive technologies. Hear about practical steps to bring your organization’s online learning programs into WCAG compliance. Learn how accessible courses tend to be better organized, clearer, and more user-friendly for all learners, which can lead to higher engagement and improved learning outcomes. More info/register.
Host: eLearningDOC
Speakers:
- Mark Wallach, MBA, CEO Emeritus, Engagement Mobile Strategies
- Toni DiMella, Executive Director of Quality Assurance, eLearningDOC
- Angela Robbins (moderator), Founder & CEO, eLearningDOC
Thu 5/15 at 1 p.m. – A Look at Continuing Education in 2030: Disruption, Competition, and Changing Expectations
MOOCs, tech giants, and universities are expanding aggressively into the continuing education world. How can associations and other learning businesses stay ahead? Hear about the forces shaping CE in the next half decade. Explore three major paradigm shifts, along with practical strategies to help learning businesses remain competitive and impactful. Learn about some of the biggest challenges CE providers face today, including AI’s impact on CE, increased competition, silos that stymie agility, and changing learner and employer expectations. More info/register.
Host: Tagoras/Leading Learning
Speakers:
- Jeff Cobb and Celisa Steele, co-founders of Tagoras and Leading Learning
- Evan Burton, head of growth at BenchPrep
Thu 5/15 at 1 p.m. – Hidden Secrets: The Real Value of Executive Search
Discover how partnering with a professional search firm can enhance your organization’s leadership strategy, connecting you with exceptional talent who share your mission and vision. Learn how to streamline your recruitment process, maintain confidentiality during sensitive transitions, and drive long-term success through strategic alignment and cultural fit. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: UST Education
Speaker: Richard Yep, Vice President at Vetted Solutions
Thu 5/15 at 1 p.m. – Non-Dues Revenue Remix
Many associations rely on traditional revenue streams—annual events, government funding, and member dues. But what happens when those staples are no longer stable? Hear about creative, practical strategies that challenge the norm—like dynamic pricing, monetizing content, launching targeted micro-events, and turning industry data gaps into revenue opportunities. More info/register.
Host: MCI
Speakers: Brittany Shoul, Sr. Vice President, Revenue Strategy and Operations, Full-Service Sales, and Carly Heideger, AVP, Client Partnership & Performance, MCI
Thu 5/15 at 1 p.m. – Mastering Data-Driven Decision-Making for Associations
Discover how to leverage analytics tools and AI insights to inform strategic decisions and achieve your goals. More info/register.
Host: Missionfuel
Thu 5/15 at 1 p.m. – Insuring Success: Navigating Risk & Insurance for Events
Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about event insurance, a business insurance checklist tailored for event organizers and vendor contracts, the most common event-related claims and how to avoid them, best practices for handling event cancellation insurance claims, and proactive steps to mitigate risk before, during, and after your event.1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: ASAE
Speakers: Seth Fleischer and Michelle Evans, Aon Affinity Nonprofits
Thu 5/15 at 4 p.m. – “Passiontivity”: Go From Paycheck to Passion!
Employers and job seekers: Join us to discover how to align passion and purpose on both sides of the hire. Most employers hire and promote based on the skills that make you productive, not necessarily those which deeply motivate you. Isn’t it time to discover a career path that will truly excite you? The old adage holds true: Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life. Get ready to answer questions that may forever change the way you look at your career. More info/register.
Host: ASAE Reston Loudoun Swap
Speaker: Shira Lotzar, Chief Engagement Officer of Purposeful Hire
Fri 5/16 at 1 p.m. – Hot Topics in Healthcare – Healthcare Workforce
We’re diving into the healthcare workforce—how associations are addressing the challenges to building up and retaining the healthcare workforce. Key discussion points include: healthcare provider shortage, retention, recruitment, and advocacy. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE’s Healthcare Community Advisory Committee
Fri 5/16 at 3 p.m. – Nonprofit Consultants Collaborative’s Monthly Networking Meeting: Effective Marketing Tactics for Consultants
This monthly networking meeting is for full-time consultants who work with non-profits and associations. You don’t have to be an ASAE member to attend this consultant-organized event. This month’s agenda includes the usual agenda of sharing of good news and topics or questions from the group. More info/register.
Organizer: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting
Mon 5/19 at 8 a.m. – USAE News episode (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)
Every week, Rogue Tulips brings the nonprofit community intriguing guests discussing vital topics affecting nonprofit organizations around the world—and we have fun doing it! Episodes are published Monday mornings in both audio and video format, available on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, Apple Podcast, and Google Podcast (to name a few!).
Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, CNP, principal and founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting
Guest: TBA
Mon 5/19 at 2 p.m. – International Business Models and Global Expansion Strategy for Associations
Learn how to expand your association’s global footprint. Key global expansion topics that will be covered include: internationalization frameworks, transformation and change, membership and global engagement, and governance Models for global expansion. More info/register.
Hosts: ASAE International Associations Advisory Council and ASAE Executive Management Professionals Advisory Council
Speakers:
- Francisco Gomez, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Factum Global
- Tarnbir Kaur, Vice President, Membership and Strategic Engagement, American Chemical Society
- Brian Weiss, Chief Operating Officer, National Contract Management Association
- Tommy Goodwin (moderator), Executive Vice President, Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance
Tue 5/20 at 10:30 a.m. – 10 Minute Meditation
Introducing mindfulness into your work day helps you cope with stress and reduce the feelings of burnout. Join us to create 10 minutes of pure space in your busy day. We’ll start with 5 minutes of arriving, a 10-minute meditation, and a 5-minute check-out. Open to all, with no prior meditation experience needed. More info/register.
Host: Association Women Technology Champions
Tue 5/20 at 12 p.m. – Stand Out: Tips on Advancing Your Association Career
In today’s environment, everyone should be open to new ventures. Hear insights on the current executive search environment and the strategies and actionable tips on how to enhance a resumé, prepare for interviews, and project executive presence. More info/register.
Host: Association Xchange
Speaker: Richard Yep, CAE, FASAE, Vice President of Vetted Solutions
Tue 5/20 at 12 p.m. – Competency-Based Boards (CRVM May 2025 Crunch and Munch)
The session will cover questions such as: Who are developing boards this way? What are the competencies you’re looking for? What questions do you ask to understand if candidates meet those competencies? How are you balancing longtime volunteer involvement and these competencies? Did you transition into this from something else – what did the journey and feedback look like? More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE Component Relations and Volunteer Management Council
Facilitators:
- Elizabeth George, Chief Membership Officer, American Guild of Organists
- Jessica Lombardo, Vice President, Membership and Volunteer Engagement, ASIS International
Tue 5/20 at 1 p.m. – How to Double New Member Engagement with Personalized Onboarding
Great onboarding isn’t just about informing new members. It’s about creating real, individual connections with them. Hear how AMA doubled their engagement rate shifting from broadcast emails to conversational engagement, captured real-time insights on new member interests and club participation, and built a foundation for stronger engagement and retention—all starting from the very first touchpoint. Learn how their new onboarding strategy ensured every new member felt supported, connected, and ready to engage – and how you can do this, too. More info/register.
Host: PropFuel
Tue 5/20 at 1 p.m. – Beyond the Plan: Rethinking Strategic Planning for Real Impact
Explore the key insights from our newly released white paper on strategic planning. Hear about the innovative approaches that set our approach to strategic planning apart—moving beyond rigid, outdated models to a process that is dynamic, inclusive, and actionable. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how we co-create strategy with organizations, centering adaptability, engagement, and measurable outcomes. More info/register.
Host: Event Garde
Tue 5/20 at 1 p.m. – Once Upon a Partnership: Storytelling for Associations and Non Profits
Hear how storytelling can transform the way purpose-driven organizations connect with sponsors and partners. Learn how to craft and communicate your organization’s story in a way that resonates, inspires, and opens doors to meaningful partnerships. Hear insights to help you stand out in a crowded funding landscape. Walk away with actionable tips to refine their narrative, amplify their mission, and build deeper corporate connections through the power of story. More info/register.
Host: Lori Zoss Kraska, MBA, CFRE, founder, Growth Owl
Guest: Cat Margulis—author, speaker, book coach, podcast host, founder, Passion Project
Tue 5/20 at 1 p.m. – Accelerating Industry Workforce Development
Hear game-changing strategies to anticipate workforce needs and position your association as the go-to industry resource, key insights for incorporating workforce development into your strategic plan, and innovative approaches to elevate both members and non-members in their professional journeys. Learn practical techniques and strategic approaches to effectively support workforce development within your industry, create meaningful partnerships, and drive positive change through education and training initiatives. More info/register.
Host: McKinley Advisors
Speakers:
- Tamesha L. Logan, MBA, CAE, Interim Executive Director, National Athletic Trainers’ Association
- Amber Jackson, Apprenticeship Project Manager, National Rural Water Association
- Brian Savoie, Sr. Vice President, Education & International Programs, Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society
- Kristi Donovan, M.S., CAE (Moderator), Practice Director, McKinley Advisors
Tue 5/20 at 3 p.m. – Security & Data Mining: Safeguarding Content in the Digital Age
As AI-driven technologies continue to shape the way we access and share information, organizations have the chance to harness these advancements while ensuring their content remains protected. Learn how to navigate security challenges, leverage AI tools effectively, and make strategic decisions about data access and protection. More info/register.
Host: Cadmium
Speakers: Ezra Wolfe, Senior Vice President, Infrastructure & IT, and Amanda Law (Moderator), Event Marketing Manager, Cadmium
Wed 5/21 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. – Community and Engagement Platforms Demo Day
See presentations from a limited number of industry partners that offer community and engagement platforms. More info/register.
Host: ASAE
Participants: GrowthZone, Clowder by ASI, Forj, Breezio, Higher Logic Thrive, Cantarus, and Insight Guide
Wed 5/21 at 10 a.m. – What the Top-Performing Government Affairs Teams Do Differently
Hear about the strategies, best practices, and actionable insights that will help your government affairs team (or team of one!) thrive in 2025. Learn how to navigate political shifts, leverage new technologies and data, and drive real results. More info/register.
Host: FiscalNote
Speakers:
- Marcel Halma, Chief Communications & Public Affairs Officer and Head of Country Management, Solvay
- Ryann Hill, Founder & CEO, Indigo Hill Strategies
- Moderated by Josh Resnik, CEO and President, FiscalNote
Wed 5/21 at 11 a.m. – Leading with Intention: Values, Transitions & Building Belonging
In a time of shifting political winds and increasing polarization, intentional leadership has never been more essential. Learn how values-driven decision-making, inclusive practices, and strategic transitions have shaped Wendy’s legacy. Explore how to build belonging amidst change, and why leading with intention isn’t just admirable—it’s essential. More info/register.
Host: KiKi L’Italien, Editor-in-Chief, Association Chat, and VP of Marketing and Community Engagement, Big Red M
Guest: Wendy Toyama , MBA, FASAE, CAE, CEO, American Epilepsy Society
Wed 5/21 at 1 p.m. – Cybersecurity in the Age of Hybrid Work and AI: A Practical Approach
Employees and members are more widely dispersed than ever, and artificial intelligence has crept its way into all corners of our lives. Get up to date on the threats and strategies that matter most in this landscape. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: UST Education
Speakers: Heinan Landa, Founder & CEO, and Chris Abel, Manager of Consulting Services, Optimal Networks
Wed 5/21 at 1 p.m. – Secrets to Success: What Your Association Service Providers Want You to Know
Learn why traditional RFPs may be holding your organization back and explore smarter, more strategic ways to identify, vet, and start strong with service providers who truly understand your goals. Get insights on how to communicate openly, ask the right questions, and set expectations early so your provider relationship starts (and stays) aligned, collaborative, and resilient. Explore real-world stories of problem-solving, flexibility, and evolution in action, plus actionable steps you can take today to elevate your current provider relationships. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: Fonteva
Speakers:
- Jennifer Baker, MSW, CAE, Association Customer Success Director, Web Scribble
- Carrie McIntyre, Principal, Navigate CES LLC, Chief Revenue Officer, Matchbox
- Carolyn Shomali, Director of Content, Professionals for Association Revenue
- Brittany Shoul, Senior Vice President, Revenue Strategy & Operations, MCI USA
Wed 5/21 at 1 p.m. – Master the Repeatable Events Formula And Drive Engagement With Your Target Audience
The data doesn’t lie. One-off mega-events aren’t enough. Discover how to build and scale a program of high-impact, repeatable events that drive meaningful engagement—whether you’re connecting with buyers, educating customers, training employees or building community. Hear why smaller, repeatable events often deliver as much ROI and engagement as large, flagship gatherings; get tactical frameworks for designing events you can easily replicate and scale; and learn how to leverage personalization to drive desired results and key considerations when building your event programs. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.
Host: Meetings Today
Speaker: Brooke Gracey, Director of Demand Generation, Cvent
Wed 5/21 at 2 p.m. – Association Sales Mastery: Strategies and Tactics That Advance Business Development
Explore how associations can revolutionize their approach to business development by refining sales mastery in three interconnected domains: Continuous Learning and Professional Development, Strategic Business Development Framework, and Technology-Enabled Operational Excellence. More info/register.
Host: Professionals for Association Revenue (PAR)
Speakers:
- John Bacon, VP, Sales & Partner Experience ASAE
- Jay Ablondi, Director of Business Development | Sponsorships, Exhibits, & Advertising, Massachusetts Medical Society
- Sean Soth, Founder & Leadership Advisory Board Chair, Professionals for Association Revenue (PAR)
Wed 5/21 at 2 p.m. – AI in Action: Practical Ways Associations Can Get Started Today
Explore practical, non-intimidating ways your organization can start using AI today—even with limited time and resources. Discover how associations of all sizes are already using AI across their teams—from automating emails and supercharging member engagement, to unlocking insights from member data and using generative AI for content creation. More info/register.
Hosts: GrowthZone and Sidecar
Speakers:
- Erica Salm Rench, CMO, Sidecar
- Emily Lachinski, Vice President of Product. GrowthZone
Wed 5/21 at 2 p.m. – IRS Exams and Revocation of Tax-Exempt Status: What Nonprofits Need to Know and How to Be Prepared
Reported threats to nonprofit organizations’ tax-exempt status have been widely circulated in recent weeks. Learn about the IRS examination process, including how to prepare for future examinations, what an organization should do when it is informed of an impending examination, what to do during an examination, and what to do if an examination results in an adverse determination. More info/register.
Host: Venable LLP
Speakers: George Constantine, Partner, and Janice Ryan, Partner, Venable LLP
Wed 5/21 at 2 p.m. – The Future of Association Boards (FAB) Community Dialogue
Host: Jeff De Cagna, executive advisor, Foresight First
Wed 5/21 at 2 p.m. – Boosting Attendee Engagement: Strategies That Work
Hear winning strategies for boosting attendee engagement before, during and after events. Learn about creative ideas for adding fun, interactive moments throughout the event agenda; tools and examples to help you gamify your gathering; and how to build a community around your event that extends far beyond the closing session. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.
Host: Northstar Meetings Group
Speakers:
- Beth Lawrence, Owner and CEO, Beth Lawrence Meetings & Events
- Cindy Lo, CEO, RED VELVET and Strong Events
- Elise Schoening (moderator), Editor, Meeting News; Senior Editor, Northstar Meetings Group
Wed 5/21 at 2:30 p.m. – Driving Impact: OKRs, Innovation & the Future of Associations
Learn how Juan’s team uses OKRs, agile thinking, and emerging tech like AI and blockchain to drive global impact. Hear his hard-won lessons on modernizing credentialing, scaling innovation, and preparing associations for a future that demands more. More info/register.
Host: KiKi L’Italien, Editor-in-Chief, Association Chat, and VP of Marketing and Community Engagement, Big Red M
Guest: Juan Sanchez, Chief Information Officer, Inteleos
Wed 5/21 at 3 p.m. – Driving Chapter Excellence: Education as a Leadership and Member Benefit
Explore actionable strategies for supporting chapters in delivering educational programs that benefit their members and in developing leadership training that strengthens chapter capacity. Discover how national associations can play a pivotal role in fostering growth, enhancing retention, and maximizing the value chapters provide. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.
Host: re:Members
Facilitator: Peggy Hoffman, President & Executive Director, Mariner Management
Speaker: Antje Teegler, Sr. Director, Membership Initiatives & Chapters at the Association of Corporate Counsel
Wed 5/21 at 3 p.m. – Small Staff: Let’s Talk
Small staff associations face unique challenges that demand creativity, resilience and collaboration. Join an interactive session where we’ll celebrate success stories and discuss current challenges. This is your opportunity to connect, ask questions, exchange experiences and gain insights to help drive your organization forward. More info/register (ASAE members only).
Host: ASAE Small Staff Associations Advisory Committee
Wed 5/21 at 8 p.m. – Engaging Rural & Remote Members Through Community Platforms
Discover how regional forums, virtual events, and tailored content can help your rural members feel seen, heard, and supported. Learn practical tips, real-life examples, and strategies for creating inclusive, accessible online spaces; using analytics to understand rural engagement trends; and building lasting member connections—wherever they are. More info/register.
Host: Higher Logic
Speakers:
- Venessa Paech, Director, Australian Community Managers
- Brendan Leehe, Customer Marketing Manager, Higher Logic
- Pamela Brown, EMDRAA Consultant, Trauma Recovery Network Australia
Thu 5/22 at 12 p.m. – The True Cost of Data for Associations
Learn about the hidden costs of poor data—and how to turn your data strategy into a true asset for your association. Hear how to build a culture of data hygiene through regular audits and governance best practices; address the rising risks of data breaches, fraud, and compliance gaps; quantify the financial impact of inaccurate data—missed renewals, declined transactions, and lost engagement; and leverage clean, reliable data to drive personalized member experiences and strategic decision-making. More info/register.
Host: ExpoLogic
Speakers:
- Evan Reid, Senior Director of Analytics, The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Wes Trochlil, Owner, Effective Database Management
- Rob Miller, SVP of Association Strategy, Momentive Software
Thu 5/22 at 3 p.m. – Back to Virtual: Why Online Events Are Rising Again—and What to Do About It
With ongoing legislative and economic fluctuations sparking a resurgence in virtual events, now is the time to rethink how you plan and deliver impactful online experiences. Hear about the latest trends and legislative factors driving the shift back to virtual events, best practices for planning and executing successful virtual and hybrid events, and key features and tools that enhance audience engagement and event ROI. More info/register.
Host: Cadmium
Speakers: Jon Corun, Director of Multimedia Productions, and Kendra Matarozza, Director of Online Events, Cadmium
Fri 5/23 at 12 p.m. – Network Notoriety: How Volunteer Leadership Can Boost Your Career
Learn how volunteerism can boost your career and network notoriety. Hear about the value of being a volunteer leader and the importance of young professional representation. Gain critical insight into the role volunteerism plays in career growth as well as how to join boards and committees as a young professional. More info/register.
Host: ASAE
Speakers:
- Mariel Solomon, MS, CC-SLP (facilitator)
- Juan Amador, FASAE, CAE, Executive Director, SACNAS
- Stuart Kushner, CAE, Executive Director, Mission Control HQ
- Jessica Struve, CAE, Co-Executive Director, Radiology Business Management Association
Wed 5/28 at 12 p.m. – AWTC Meet & Greet
Connect with new faces in the association tech community! Join us for a 30-minute welcome event to forge fresh connections and discover our vibrant Slack community. More info/register.
Host: Association Women Technology Champions
Wed 5/28 at 2 p.m. – May Women in Association Leadership (WIAL) Call
Hear about Sandy’s inspiring career journey, the power of women-led communities like WIAL, and how she’s been lifted up by incredible women throughout her path. More info/register.
Host: Women in Association Leadership
Moderator: Sherry Budziak of .orgSource
Guest: Sandy Marsico, Founder & CEO of Sandstorm
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