Association Brain Food

Association Brain Food: 7.11.25

The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community…

Sponsored education. Every education team wishes they had a bigger budget to design new online courses. Oh, the things you could do. The solution is closer than you think, says Apti. Tap into the expertise and marketing dollars of industry partners, who can help you fund the courses you need to meet new market demands and get ahead of the competition.

Event app adoption. “How is it that people who are on their phones day and night can’t be bothered to download and use an app made specifically to improve their event experience?” Whatever the reason, Clowder suggests dozens of ways to encourage attendees to use and benefit from your event app.

Fundraising. NetForum explains how to use your AMS to support and improve your fundraising efforts. They cover topics, such as managing donor data, running fundraising campaigns and recurring giving programs, measuring donor engagement, facilitating and processing donations, and personalizing thank-yous.

Gen Z anxiety. “Therapy-speak has taken over our language,” says Freya India at Girls. No wonder when 72% of Gen Z girls believe mental health challenges are an important part of their identity. She digs into this phenomenon in which everything is “explained, categorized, and corrected,” and every facet of your personality is actually a sign of mental illness. No wonder so many young people are lost, anxious, and hyperbolic. So sad.

Bundling. Carolyn Shomali at Professionals for Association Revenue describes how two associations are making it easier for their members and industry partners to do business with them by bundling learning subscriptions and sponsorships.

Event strategy. ExpoLogic takes you through the essential elements of an event strategy, including the event’s purpose, goals, planning process, marketing, metrics, and ROI.

AI-speak. When Mitch Joel encounters polished, clear, and “emotionally beige” writing, he suspects AI was involved. You know what he means: the “homogenized, corporate-y cadence” spewed out by LLMs. Blech. Cede your words to AI and lose your voice.

Snacks

Does your association’s website have a page (like IHMM’s) about the recent changes to 529 savings plans, which allow anyone to set aside money in a tax-free investment account for credentialing expenses?

Ignore the pessimists. We are living through a literary golden age. Literature is booming. Literary culture needs to catch up. | Henry Oliver (one of my favorite Substackers), The New Stateman

Five strategies for proactive conference planning in uncertain times. | Dave Lutz, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting

Is a bad hire weighing you down? Here are the best (and worst) ways to unmoor them. | Tony Case, WorkLife

You never grow old at the table

My basil plants were about to start flowering so I harvested the tops to make this summer’s first batch of pesto, which I used in a new recipe on Independence Day, chicken tortellini salad. But in my rush to uncover everything on the table—flies, grr!—I forgot to toss the salad again, so it wasn’t dressed the way I would’ve liked, and it needed more salt than the recipe called for. I omitted the garlic in the pesto vinaigrette dressing since there’s already garlic in my pesto. When tossed, this salad is really good.

I also made a triple batch of a new baked beans recipe, which I will make again and again. I subbed a poblano and jalapeño pepper for half the green bell pepper and used the Southern Pit BBQ flavor of the Bush’s Grillin’ Beans she recommended.

Two days later, we enjoyed the leftover chicken tortellini salad as a pasta dish. But first, I had to work my magic on it. I sautéed onion, carrot, broccoli stems, and garlic; added leftover cooked chicken, pesto, and Parmesan; dumped in the tortellini salad along with fresh basil, evaporated milk, and butter. Oh my, so good.

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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.

Fri 7/11 at 1 p.m.* – Foresight Fridays: Content, Learning, and Knowledge

Foresight visioning is a tool that has helped many associations level up to deliver for new needs. Learn about areas of concern and risk for associations with A.I, higher education transformation, hybrid meetings, the future of information, and the rise of influencers. Hear how one association is using foresight visioning to drive strategy and collaboration. 1 CAE credit. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

Denise Roosendaal, FASAE, CAE and the Executive Director for the Institute of Credentialing Excellence
Beth Surmont, FASAE, CAE, Vice President, Event Strategy & Design, 360 Live Media

*All events are online at Eastern Daylight Time unless otherwise noted.

Mon 7/14 at 8 a.m. – Negotiating with Consultants (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: Vinnu Deshetty, founder, Event ROI Coach

Mon 7/14 at 12 p.m. – The Business Case for Belonging: Why Inclusion Drives Impact?

Join us for the third in a series of inclusive gatherings designed to bring together allies from all backgrounds. We’ll explore how the business world has long acknowledged that inclusive communities lead to stronger outcomes. But belonging is what turns diversity into impact. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE Black Association Executives

Tue 7/15 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 7/15 at 12 p.m. – Communicating What Matters—How Associations Lead w/ Strategic Storytelling

From navigating politicized issues to elevating member voices and leading in moments of crisis, strategic communications is no longer a back-office function—it’s central to your association’s impact and influence. Hear how leading associations are approaching communications during turbulent times—without losing credibility or core audiences; smart strategies for managing crisis, change, and member trust; what to prioritize (and what to let go of) in your communications plan; how to craft messages that engage members, attract media attention, and strengthen your position as a go-to source; and the evolving role of content, campaigns, and executive visibility in association comms. More info/register.

Hosts: Association Insights and OnWrd & UpWrd

Speakers:

Tim Ebner, Vice President, Communications and Marketing, Can Manufacturers Institute
Sean Luechtefeld, Ph.D., CAE, Vice President for Membership & Communications, ANCOR
Ilana Ostrin, Head of Global Communications, Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association
Colleen Gallagher (moderator), President & CEO, OnWrd & UpWrd

Tue 7/15 at 12 p.m. – Global Chapter Compliance: Peer Perspectives from the Field (CRVM July 2025 Crunch and Munch)

As global networks expand, so do the complexities of governance and compliance. Hear how associations are building and managing compliance programs for their international chapters, what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what they’ve learned along the way. Learn about the structure, oversight mechanisms, and practical tools their organizations use to support compliance in the U.S. and across diverse regions. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE Component Relations and Volunteer Management

Speakers:

Ann Dorough, CAE, Director, Component Relations, American Institute of Architects
Peggy Hoffman, FASAE, CAE, President, Mariner Management
Jessica Lombardo, VP, Member Engagement, ASIS International
Camille Sanders, CAE, PCM (moderator), Director, Chapter Programs and Operations, ISACA

Tue 7/15 at 1 p.m. – The Association Marketing Manifesto – Live, Part 1: The Growth Mindset Shift: Why Marketing Is at the Heart of Association Strategy

This opening session of the three-part webinar series reframes the role of marketing in the association space, challenging the long-held perception of marketing as a cost center or order-taker. Explore how associations mirror recurring revenue models like software businesses—and why expanding into this mindset is the key to strategic, sustainable growth. Hear how the cultural and structural shifts required to position marketing as a high-impact growth driver instead of a reactive, internal service department. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Brianne Wheeler, CEO / Founder at Levitate Marketing

Tue 7/15 at 1 p.m. – Business Model Innovation

Explore proven strategies for financial resilience and mission-driven innovation drawn from extensive research and the findings in our latest report. Learn how association business model dimensions work together to define how your organization creates, delivers and captures value; actionable approaches to drive meaningful change across five critical dimensions, including value, revenue, community, reach and operations; and key indicators that reveal when it’s time to rethink and reinvent your business model for maximum impact. More info/register.

Host: McKinley Advisors

Speakers: Patrick Glaser, M.A., MPA, Chief Practice Officer, and Meena Dayak, M.A., Practice Director, McKinley Advisors

Tue 7/15 at 1 p.m. – Fit-for-Purpose Association and Nonprofit Boards: Three Critical Ideas We Must Understand

In a world of brittle systems, high anxiety, non-linear outcomes, and incomprehensible challenges, it is essential for association and nonprofit boards to set a higher standard of stewardship, governing, and foresight and become fit for purpose. Hear about three critical ideas that everyone serving on or working with association/nonprofit boards must understand about what it will take for them to elevate their performance and become fit for purpose. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: Raffa Investment Advisers

Speaker: Jeff De Cagna AIMP FRSA FASAE, Executive Advisor, Foresight First LLC

Tue 7/15 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. – Integration Town Hall #1 for Association Software

Join fellow association executives to review a draft Bill of Rights mapping out what the association customer has the right to expect from a tech integration project and what the vendors and consultants working on the integration should be prepared to deliver. The Integration Bill of Rights aims to establish clear standards for software interoperability, data portability, and vendor accountability. Explore how these principles can reduce technical friction, lower costs, and improve member experiences while fostering innovation among solution providers. More info/register.

Hosts: 501Works LLC and League of Association Technologists

Wed 7/16 at 7 a.m. – Funding the Future Discussion: Real Stories of Learning-Led Growth in Membership Bodies

Hear how leading professional bodies are transforming learning into a strategic revenue driver—enabling them to deliver more value to members, tackle skills gaps and create lasting change across their industries. More info/register.

Host: D2L

Speakers:

David D’Souza, director of profession, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development
Colin Moran, national training and education manager, the Irish Rugby Football Union
Teresa Beazley, commercial & training manager, the Lighting Industry Association
Andrew Howie, chief finance and commercial officer, the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine
Sasha El-Halwani, senior revenue marketing manager, D2L EMEA

Wed 7/16 at 11:30 a.m. – Our KPI is Joy: How Live Events Catalyze Happiness, Productivity and Trust

Find out why you should think beyond logistics and see events as powerful catalysts for joy, trust, and collaboration. Learn why joy must be a core metric—and how associations can design events that don’t just inform, but transform. Hear about the future of events, why joy is serious business, and how we can design gatherings that bring people together in lasting, meaningful ways. More info/register.

Host: KiKi L’Italien, Editor-in-Chief, Association Chat, and VP of Marketing and Community Engagement, Big Red M

Guest: Tahira Endean, Head of Program, IMEX

Wed 7/16 at 12 p.m. – Designing with Intelligence: Integrating AI into Your Association’s Education Workflow

AI is changing the game for how associations design and deliver professional development. Whether you’re developing credentialing programs, continuing education content, or member training resources, AI has the potential to boost creativity, streamline workflows and enhance outcomes. But knowing where to start—or how to integrate AI responsibly—can be a challenge. Hear about real-world strategies and tools to begin using AI effectively and ethically in your content development processes. More info/register.

Host: Ewald Consulting

Speakers: Jessica Truhler, Director of Professional Development Strategy, and Danial Davis, Director of Professional Development Operations, Ewald Consulting

Wed 7/16 at 1 p.m. – Lean at 10: Lessons Learned

Association execs are always on the lookout for good ideas for new programs, products, and services, and once we think we have one, we want to build it as quickly and efficiently as possible. Learn about the key concepts and tools of lean startup methodology. Hear case studies from association executives applying lean startup methodology to their product development processes. Find out about cultural challenges associated with implementing lean startup principles and tools to navigate those challenges within your own organizations. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speakers:

Elizabeth Engel, M.A., CAE, Chief Strategist, Spark Consulting, LLC
Jamie Notter, Co-Founder, PROPEL
Chrissy Bagby, Chief Strategy Officer, American Association of Veterinary State Boards
Tiffany Dyar, Director of Innovation, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians

Wed 7/16 at 2 p.m. – Back to the Sandbox: The Latest AI Tools for Event Professionals

From boosting productivity to refining your marketing, from chatbots to agents and beyond, get inspired to tackle your event-planning challenges with next-level solutions. See new tools and updates that can help solve eventprof pain points, how agentic AI can be applied effectively, and the limits of generative AI and how to avoid misusing it. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.

Host: Northstar Meetings Group

Speakers:

Noah Cheyer, Cofounder, Head of Marketing and Operations, Speak About AI
Dahlia El Gazzar, Founder, DAHLIA+ Agency
Michael J. Shapiro (moderator), Director of Content Strategy, Northstar Meetings Group U.S.

Thu 7/17 at 10 a.m. – What U.S. Associations Need to Know About the EU 2025 Accessibility Act

Learn which U.S. associations are subject to the EU Accessibility Act; what qualifies as “accessible” under the new requirements; the digital products, services, and content that may need updates; compliance timelines and potential penalties; and tools and resources to assess risk and build a mitigation plan. More info/register (free for ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

Steven Farmer, Partner, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
Matthew Luken, SVP & Chief Architect, Deque

Thu 7/17 at 11 a.m. – AEO + GEO: The Future of SEO in an AI World

The future of SEO isn’t just about keywords and rankings anymore, it’s about showing up in the answers AI delivers. That’s where Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) come in. Explore how AEO and GEO can give your association a powerful edge. Learn how to turn your existing resources into content that AI recognizes, trusts, and surfaces—so your organization becomes the answer, wherever your audience is searching. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speakers: Joanna M. Pineda, CEO & Chief Troublemaker, and Leah Monica, Director of Marketing, Matrix Group International, Inc.

Thu 7/17 at 1 p.m. – The AI Shift: ChatGPT Has Rewired Members’ Web Habits. Here’s How to Adapt.

Generative AI and tools like ChatGPT have introduced new website habits: visitors expect to search with full-sentence questions, they want concise summaries before committing to long pages, and they assume each page will instantly suggest the next best action tailored to their needs. When your association’s website falls short of these expectations, the consequences include declining event registrations, an uptick in “I can’t find it” phone calls, and prospects choosing alternative online communities. Learn how these AI-driven behaviors are reshaping the fundamentals of web strategy for associations. Hear about practical adjustments that can be scheduled within typical budget and staffing limits, along with a longer-term view of deeper AI integrations and the metrics that best demonstrate progress to leadership. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: John Hooley, President, Steward

Thu 7/17 at 1 p.m. – From Program to Powerhouse: Measuring Learning’s True Impact on Association Growth

Learn about the Learning Power Index and how it can serve as a diagnostic tool and a strategic roadmap for education-led growth. Explore how top organizations are using LPI to align leadership and the board around a shared growth goal; prioritize investment in scalable, high-impact learning programs; move from siloed initiatives to a unified, mission-driven learning strategy; and unlock millions in revenue potential while deepening member impact. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speaker: Ashish Rangnekar, CEO & Co-Founder, BenchPrep

Fri 7/18 at 12 p.m. – Marketing Mindshare: AI in Action—A Virtual Lunch Chat

Are you curious how your association marketing colleagues are using AI in their organizations? Struggling to get buy-in for AI initiatives and want to learn how others are making it work? Using surface-level AI tools and ready to dive deeper? Discover how AI is transforming the association marketing landscape, real-world opportunities and challenges of adopting AI for your MarTech needs. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE Marketing Professionals Advisory Council

Moderators:

Laura Sparks, outgoing chair of the Marketing Professionals Advisory Council
Evan Reid, member of the Technology Professionals Advisory Council

Fri 7/18 at 3 p.m. – Nonprofit Consultants Collaborative Monthly Networking Call

This monthly networking meeting is organized by consultants for full-time consultants who work with non-profits and associations. You don’t have to be an ASAE member to attend. This month’s agenda includes the sharing of good news, topics or questions from the group, and AI and its impact on consulting. More info/register.

Organizer: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Tue 7/22 at 11 a.m. – The Association Marketing Manifesto – Live, Part 2: Numbers Don’t Lie: The 5 Marketing Metrics Every Association Leader Should Track (But Probably Doesn’t)

While many associations glance at membership counts and dues revenue periodically, truly data-driven organizations dig deeper. Explore five critical metrics—ARR, MRR, retention rate, NPS, and CAC—and how they can inform smarter marketing and membership decisions. Get a break down on each one, how to calculate it (without a finance degree), and how it ties to strategy and storytelling in the boardroom. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Brianne Wheeler, CEO / Founder at Levitate Marketing

Tue 7/22 at 1 p.m. – ROI That Resonates: Proving Sponsor Value in Purpose-Driven Partnerships

Learn about navigating ROI discussions with sponsors. Hear about common ROI questions, strategies to confidently frame your value, and ways to build trust while highlighting both tangible and intangible outcomes. Walk away with practical language and a fresh perspective to strengthen your sponsorship relationships and drive long-term success. More info/register.

Host: Lori Zoss Kraska, Founder and CEO of Growth Owl, LLC

Guest: John Bacon, Vice President of Enterprise Sales at ASAE

Tue 7/22 at 3:30 p.m. CDT – AWTC Roundtable in Chicago

Join other champions of women in tech for an in-person roundtable focused on the latest tech, marketing, and data challenges facing associations. The relaxed atmosphere fosters open dialogue, collaboration, and creativity around how these areas impact operational efficiency, data literacy, and member engagement. If you’ve got a challenge, share it, so we can come up with creative solutions together. Afterwards, let’s continue the conversation with a happy hour and drinks. Location: Chicago IL. More info/register.

Organizer: Association Women Technology Champions

Wed 7/23 at 12 p.m. – Sustaining Mental and Physical Health as a Chief Staff Executive

Join an important conversation on sustaining mental and physical health as an association chief staff executive and explore several critical issues including the shifting paradigm of stress, health, and work-life balance; governance challenges and leadership transitions; self-harm, gender disparities, and physical health concerns; and building a path to healthier leadership. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE Executive Management Professionals Advisory Council

Speakers:

Lindsay Currie, CAE, Executive Officer, Council on Undergraduate Research
Adam Levy, CAE, Executive Director, American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association
Tara Puckey, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CMP, Executive Director, Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) and RTDNA Foundation
Silvia Quevedo, CAE, Executive Director, Lamaze International

Wed 7/23 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 7/23 at 1 p.m. – Creating Super Member Profiles That Drive Engagement and Personalization

Learn what data is most valuable to capture and how to structure member profiles to support personalization efforts. Discover creative approaches for motivating members to provide and refresh their information over time, making profiles more dynamic and accurate. Hear how AI can deliver personalized member experiences, provided you have the right data foundation. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: Fonteva

Speaker: Dave Will, Co-Founder and CEO of PropFuel

Thu 7/24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – How to Design a Product Portfolio

Learn about the indispensability of a product portfolio. Find out how to analyze and map your current offerings, organize your offerings into a high-level product portfolio, identify interdependencies and find new value for your membership, use your portfolio as a strategy, planning, or budget tool, and keep your portfolio updated and timeless. More info/register.

Host: James Young, founder, Product Community

Thu 7/24 at 3 p.m. – Intro to AI Webinar for Associations and Nonprofits

Learn about the basics and importance of generative AI and Large Language Models. Witness the power of AI tools through live demonstrations, showcasing their impact on real-world scenarios. Learn to create targeted personas in ChatGPT for personalized content and interactions, and which settings to adjust for privacy and security, and understand what information is safe to input into AI tools. More info/register.

Host: Sidecar

Speakers:

Erica Salm Rench, CMO, Sidecar
Thomas Altman, Co-founder, Tasio

Association Brain Food Weekly is published Friday mornings. If you’re offering free professional development to the association community, please send me the link via email by Wednesday afternoon the week before your event is scheduled.

Creative Commons licensed photo by Dan Gold via Unsplash

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Association Brain Food: 7.4.25

The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community…

“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul…” —John Muir

Early-career skills gaps. Not so long ago, young people learned industry and workplace basics in entry-level positions. But now, because AI has taken over many of these entry-level tasks, young people don’t have the chance to develop the basic skills they need for the next step up. TopClass LMS describes how associations can help employers fill these skills gaps.

Balancing human and AI work. At Associations Now, Sarah Sain, CAE describes how associations are using AI to create more time for meaningful staff/member interactions. She suggests letting AI handle routine questions and data-gathering, “so humans can excel at what they do best—connecting, advising, and genuinely caring about members when it matters most.”

Membership benchmarks. Fellow membership geeks, it’s here: the 17^th annual edition of the membership marketing benchmarking report from MGI. Now you can see how you measure up against other associations and what’s working for your peers. The report covers all aspects of recruitment, engagement, and retention, plus expanded and new sections on AI, generational issues, workforce development, and membership research.

Association SEO course. The SEO for Associations Certificate Course at Association Academy covers Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for association websites, including immediate steps and long-term strategies to help your association attract more website traffic by improving your ranking with Google and other search engines. Earn up to 5 CAE credits while learning at your own pace in five one-hour on-demand lessons. Save $50 with the promo code BRAINFOOD.

Vibe coding. I’ve heard about vibe coding but didn’t really get it until reading this article at Every by Katie Parrott, who describes herself as “aggressively untechnical.” Yet she’s using “AI tools that finally speak our language” to create software that solves problems and improves processes. A tip of the hat to Maddie Grant who shared this in the Association Women Technology Champions’ Slack channel.

Association boards. In recognition of Day 2,000 of The Turbulent Twenties, Jeff De Cagna shares nine questions about the future of association boards that those who serve on or work with boards should reflect upon and discuss.

Non-dues revenue. YM Careers describes five proven member benefits—online services, events, and resources—that boost your association’s non-dues revenue during challenging economic times.

Exhibiting strategy. Here’s one for industry partners. Ben Barclay at Exhibitor shares advice from event psychology advisor Victoria Matey, who says a little knowledge of behavioral science can improve your exhibit strategy. She describes how to use booth layout, desks, engagement motivators, scents, color, and biophilic design to connect more deeply with attendees and create resonating experiences.

Email signup forms. Andy Crestodina at Orbit Media explains how to improve email signup forms and increase subscriber growth.

You never grow old at the table

With only two of us in the house, you’d think I’d halve a recipe that makes enough for a 13” x 9” baking dish, but no. So, chipotle chicken enchiladas were a three-peat meal. Thankfully, we loved them. I subbed sweet potatoes for the butternut squash. Instead of stuffing individual enchiladas, I covered the bottom of the dish with semicircles of wheat tortillas, spread the filling over them, and covered it all with semicircles of flour tortillas. On the side, green cabbage sautéed with red onion, red bell pepper, carrot, jalapeño, ham, and garlic.

Fettuccine and meatballs in marinara on a 90-something-degree day? Sure, why not. I pulled the meatballs I had made a while back from the freezer but still had to heat up the oven for our veg: roasted broccoli with red onion, garlic powder, ground cayenne pepper, and salt.

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Mon 7/7 at 8 a.m.* – Negotiating with Consultants (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)

Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, CNP, principal and founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Guest: Vinnu Deshetty, founder, The Event ROI Coach

*All events are online at Eastern Daylight Time unless otherwise noted.

Tue 7/8 at 10:30 a.m. – Navigating LD-203 Reporting

Learn about hidden risks and best practices for lobbyists and employers. More info/register.

Host: Gary Gallant, Gallant Law Group

Tue 7/8 at 12 p.m. – Tech Tuesday: Who’s Got Your Back? Identifying and Leveraging Your Allies

Hear about the critical importance of recognizing and collaborating with key allies within your organization to maximize effectiveness and achieve shared goals. Explore various facets of strategic alliances, including: examining how different departments, such as HR, Marketing, and Membership, can optimize their use of technology and internal expertise; and the value of identifying Subject Matter Expert (SME) champions to guide tool identification and implementation. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE

Moderators: Reggie Henry, ASAE and Dave Coriale, DelCor

Guests:

Edima Elinewinga, CAE VP & Chief Technology Officer, Association of Corporate Counsel
Leah Cannon, CPA, CAE, SHRM-CP, Chief Operating Officer, National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists

Wed 7/9 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. This session will shift your mindset and provide actionable insights to help you grow revenue and engagement by aligning your team, understanding your audience, and crafting outcome-driven strategies. Walk away with a clear framework to break free from stagnation and accelerate your organization’s success. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Henry Stoever, Founder & Managing Principal at Windsor Strategy

Wed 7/9 at 12 p.m. – The Video Mindset Shift: When Content Becomes Strategy (Buzzworthy LIVE)

What if your next video wasn’t about promotion—but about solving real problems? Learn how one small team redefined video as a tool for recruitment, outreach, and trust-building in an industry most people haven’t even heard of. Hear how their short-form videos are supporting workforce development, public education, and member value—all without a big budget. More info/register.

Host: WorkerBee.TV

Guest: Toni Kervina, Director of Content & Learning, ASNT

Wed 7/9 at 1 p.m. – Lights, Camera, Impact: Sharpening Your Video Skills for Success

Whether it’s live meetings on Zoom/Teams or creating asynchronous content for social media or internal communications, hear how to deliver your message with clarity, confidence, and professionalism. Through practical exercises and expert guidance, learn the art of being articulate and authoritative on camera, ensuring your video content stands out. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Michael Hoffman, Co-Founder and CEO, Gather Voices

Wed 7/9 at 1 p.m. – 4 Actionable Strategies to Design High-Impact, High-Revenue CE

Learn how to increase your CE program revenue by 15% using four proven strategies. Hear how to transform your existing CE programs to increase learner engagement, support career advancement, and generate predictable, recurring revenue. Find out how to package your content for higher value, tailor learning experiences to individual goals, build credentialing pathways that learners pay to pursue, and move from one-off transactions to long-term subscriptions. More info/register.

Host: BenchPrep

Wed 7/9 at 2 p.m. – 7 Ways to Avoid a Boring Webinar

There is no such thing as webinar fatigue, just boring webinars. Regardless of your industry, it’s time to make your webinars more approachable, more authentic and more human. Learn about multiple types of conversational formats, tips for engaging executive audiences, gamification and unique formats, serializing webinar programs, and putting your audience in the presentation. More info/register.

Host: ON24

Speaker: Mark Bornstein, Vice President, Marketing and Chief Evangelist, ON24

Thu 7/10 at 2 p.m. – The Art of Email Deliverability: Strategies to Boost Your Sending Reputation

If email is a key part of your communication strategy, your sending reputation is more than just a technical metric—it’s a direct reflection of your brand’s credibility and trustworthiness. Learn modern sending strategies that improve inbox placement and engagement; a practical framework to implement high-deliverability practices within your team; and tools, techniques, and immediate next steps to improve your sender score. More info/register.

Host: 501Works

Speakers:

Erica Salm Rench, COO, rasa.io
James Marquis, CIO, 501Works

Fri 7/11 at 1 p.m. – Foresight Fridays: Content, Learning, and Knowledge

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

Denise Roosendaal, FASAE, CAE and the Executive Director for the Institute of Credentialing Excellence
Beth Surmont, FASAE, CAE, Vice President, Event Strategy & Design, 360 Live Media

Tue 7/15 at 10:30 a.m. 10 Minute Meditation

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

Tue 7/15 at 1 p.m. – The Association Marketing Manifesto – Live, Part 1: The Growth Mindset Shift: Why Marketing Is at the Heart of Association Strategy

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Brianne Wheeler, CEO / Founder at Levitate Marketing

Tue 7/15 at 1 p.m. – Business Model Innovation

Host: McKinley Advisors

Speakers: Patrick Glaser, M.A., MPA, Chief Practice Officer, and Meena Dayak, M.A., Practice Director, McKinley Advisors

Tue 7/15 at 1 p.m. – Fit-for-Purpose Association and Nonprofit Boards: Three Critical Ideas We Must Understand

Host: Raffa Investment Advisers

Speaker: Jeff De Cagna AIMP FRSA FASAE, Executive Advisor, Foresight First LLC

Wed 7/16 at 11:30 a.m. – Our KPI is Joy: How Live Events Catalyze Happiness, Productivity and Trust

Host: KiKi L’Italien, Editor-in-Chief, Association Chat, and VP of Marketing and Community Engagement, Big Red M

Guest: Tahira Endean, Head of Program, IMEX

Wed 7/16 at 1 p.m. – Lean at 10: Lessons Learned

Host: UST Education

Speakers:

Elizabeth Engel, M.A., CAE, Chief Strategist, Spark Consulting, LLC
Jamie Notter, Co-Founder, PROPEL
Chrissy Bagby, Chief Strategy Officer, American Association of Veterinary State Boards
Tiffany Dyar, Director of Innovation, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians

Thu 7/17 at 11 a.m. – AEO + GEO: The Future of SEO in an AI World

Host: UST Education

Speakers: Joanna M. Pineda, CEO & Chief Troublemaker, and Leah Monica, Director of Marketing, Matrix Group International, Inc.

Thu 7/17 at 1 p.m. – The AI Shift: ChatGPT Has Rewired Members’ Web Habits. Here’s How to Adapt.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: John Hooley, President, Steward

Fri 7/18 at 3 p.m. – Nonprofit Consultants Collaborative Monthly Networking Meeting

Organizer: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Creative Commons licensed photo by Lukasz Szmigiel via Unsplash

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Association Brain Food: 6.27.25

The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community…

Member connections. Clowder explains how members can use your association’s membership app as a peer-to-peer networking tool. They give tips on helping members leverage an app’s features to boost connections and get membership value year-round.

Lean startup methodology. Ten years ago, Elizabeth Engel and Guillermo Ortiz de Zárate introduced the association community to lean startup methodology in their paper, Innovate the Lean Way—a “highly useful approach for associations seeking to stay relevant, create real member value, increase membership, and investigate ideas for non-dues revenue.” Since culture change is the biggest barrier to success, in Lean at 10: Culture Eats Methodology for Lunch, they’re joined by Jamie Notter to share association case studies and revisit the lean methodology as an “evidence-based, data-informed way to mitigate risk when developing new programs, products, and services for members and new audiences.”

Data warehouse. GrowthZone describes the advantages of a built-in data warehouse in your AMS. They also explain the difference between a database and a data warehouse, and share examples of membership, event, and financial insights that a data warehouse helps you track and measure.

Keynote speakers. A survey by Freeman discovered that only 1% of event attendees want to hear from celebrity speakers. In another study, attendees ranked celebrity speakers dead last. Andrea Doyle at Skift Meetings says planners are realizing famous keynotes are too expensive and don’t deliver enough ROI.

Learning vs. education. Jeff Cobb of Tagoras shares a zinger of a quote in a recent post: “It’s a tragic fact that most of us know only how to be taught.” He discusses the difference between learning and education and encourages you to think about your own learning and what you’re offering members.

Membership renewals. MGI suggests strategies to increase renewals, based on their 40 years of membership marketing experience and over a decade of surveying associations for their membership benchmark report. They cover reasons members don’t renew, renewal campaigns (and mistakes), channels, testing, grace periods, and metrics.

Jobs-to-be-done. Tony Ulwick introduces the jobs-to-be-done framework for defining, categorizing, capturing, and organizing member and customer needs. The goal is to understand the jobs your market segments are trying to get done and the metrics they use to measure success. I’ve heard about people using this framework to develop and market products, so give it a look-see.

Snacks

Event marketing. Time to throw out your old event marketing playbook. Attendees and exhibitors don’t want your sales pitch or marketing fluff. They want results and value. | Warwick Davies, The Event Mechanic

POV browsing. An interesting podcast episode hosted by Liz Boeree and featuring Jamie Joyce about the Society Library, which creates “structured ‘debate map’ databases, so you can compare and contrast the reasoning and evidence which justifies different points of view.”

Immigration. What both sides get wrong about immigration. Common sense! | Martin Gurri, The Free Press

You never grow old at the table

My knock-out dish this past weekend was crab- and spinach-stuffed flounder. I topped one half of each fillet with a mix of lump crabmeat, chopped spinach, cream cheese, green onion, Parmesan, lemon thyme, basil, garlic powder, and breadcrumbs, then folded the other half over it, brushed it with melted butter, and sprinkled on a little Old Bay. Oh yes.

On the side, Brussels sprouts roasted with red onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, balsamic, and soy sauce.

I’m enjoying hummus for breakfast in a wheat tortilla with roasted eggplant, red onion, and, sometimes, leftover vegetables—it’s messy but so satisfying.

When I wake up ravenous and can’t wait for breakfast, I defrost a whole wheat banana muffin. I follow this Best Banana Bread recipe from Bon Appétit but use all wheat flour, Greek yogurt, and walnuts (or pecans).

We’ve been enjoying lots of leftovers, but on one of my nights, I had to make a vegetable so I scrounged up some odds and sods from the produce drawer and garden: cabbage and chard sautéed with bacon, onion, red bell, carrot, poblano, jalapeño, garlic, and ham broth.

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Fri 6/27 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 lack community. More info/register.

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

*All events are online at Eastern Daylight Time unless otherwise noted.

Mon 6/30 at 8 a.m. – Association Management as a Family Business (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)

Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, CNP, principal and founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Guests: Wendy, Owen, and Damian Kavanagh

Tue 7/1 at 1 p.m. – Three Big Ways Verifiable Credentials Can Benefit Professional Organizations

Hear about three big ways in which verifiable credentials have brought benefits to the speakers’ professional organizations. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

Dale Cyr, MBA, CAE, CEO and Executive Director, Inteleos
Dan Demers, Director of Business Development, CannAmm
Dan Giurescu, CEO, Credivera
Gabriella Boulos, Director of Programs and Events, Canadian Council of Innovators
Juan Sanchez, CIO, Inteleos

Wed 7/2 at 12 p.m. – Scenarios for Surviving and Even Thriving Amidst Chaos

Scenario planning is a powerful tool that helps your business prepare for the future by exploring multiple possible futures rather than trying to predict just one. Learn how to use this approach to anticipate change and manage risks, improve decision-making, boost adaptability, uncover opportunities, and build resilience. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: AIOT

Speaker: Ann Feeney, CAE

Tue 7/8 at 12 p.m. – Tech Tuesday: Who’s Got Your Back? Identifying and Leveraging Your Allies

Host: ASAE

Moderators: Reggie Henry, ASAE and Dave Coriale, DelCor

Guests:

Edima Elinewinga, CAE VP & Chief Technology Officer, Association of Corporate Counsel
Leah Cannon, CPA, CAE, SHRM-CP, Chief Operating Officer, National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists

Wed 7/9 at 11 a.m. – The Growth Mindset: How Nonprofits Can Thrive Despite Limited Resources

Host: UST Education.

Speaker: Henry Stoever, Founder & Managing Principal at Windsor Strategy

Wed 7/9 at 12 p.m. – The Video Mindset Shift: When Content Becomes Strategy (Buzzworthy LIVE)

Host: WorkerBee.TV

Guest: Toni Kervina, Director of Content & Learning, ASNT

Association Brain Food Weekly is published Friday mornings. If you’re offering free professional development to the association community, please send me the link via email by Wednesday afternoon the week before your event is scheduled.

Association Brain Food: 6.20.25

The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community…

Selling online learning. Convincing busy members to take online courses is hard enough, but imagine having to persuade employees to attend optional training programs. TopClass LMS found out what top corporate trainers do to sell their online training to a tough audience.

Membership. Helen Mosher, CAE says you can no longer look at membership as just a lifecycle because “today’s member behavior is anything but linear.” Instead, she suggests adopting an ecosystem model that sees members as “participants in a dynamic, evolving network.”

AI for associations. Need to sharpen your knowledge about AI? Nimble’s AI success kit includes four useful resources: two 30-minute webinar recordings about AI for associations, plus an introduction to AI for associations and a guide to developing an AI strategy.

Membership course. Earn 10 CAE credits at Association Academy’s popular Association Member Growth Certificate Course. 1,400+ association execs have completed this course and learned how to conduct research, develop relevant benefits, establish member content gates, improve recruitment and retention campaigns, and grow membership. The course meets for ten weeks on Thursdays, 1-2pm ET, except for the first class, which is on Wednesday, July 2. Save $50 with promo code BRAINFOOD. I took this course earlier this year and will vouch that it’s well worth your time and money—even for seasoned membership pros like me.

Learning cohorts. James Young at Product Community says learning cohort programs deliver what members seek from associations: connections, belonging, growth, and career advancement. In a cohort program, a group of learners progresses together through a mix of live and self-study educational content. I can’t imagine a more transformational experience to offer members.

Association shop talk. A2Z Events by Personify took notes while working their booth at the ASAE MMC+Tech conference. They share what was on the minds of the association staff who visited their booth.

AMS selection. If you’re embarking on an AMS project, start your research with 108 ideaspace’s list of issues to consider when selecting an association management system (AMS). They go into detail on items that belong on your list: reporting, security, API, technology partners, access control, cost of ownership, vendor stability, and the ability to expand software capabilities as your needs change.

You never grow old at the table

Chipotle salmon is an old favorite here. The flavors of chipotle and sweet potatoes synchronize, so I roasted a few and served leftover veggies al pesto on the side.

Up in Massachusetts, haddock à la Lorraine is a must: fillets topped with a mix of crushed Ritz crackers, lemon zest, garlic powder, and melted butter. The usual side: roasted broccoli and red onion.

My mum liked my baked chicken and mushroom skillet. But who wouldn’t? On the side, green beans steamed and then sautéed with red bell pepper and green onions.

When we got home from our road trip, I pulled some chicken breast from the freezer and raided the produce drawer to make chicken al pesto pasta: slivers of chicken breast, broccoli florets and stems, carrot, onion, pesto, evaporated milk, parmesan, butter, and pasta water with farfalle (bowtie) pasta.

Now that the temps are in the 90s around here, I’m turning up the heat inside with my southwest skillet: ground chorizo and turkey, spinach, sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, red bell, poblano, jalapeño, onion, garlic, chipotle, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, chicken broth, cheddar, and cilantro.

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Fri 6/20 at 12 p.m.* – YPAC Lunch & Learn: Why Advocacy is Important to Young Professionals

Learn about the key role advocacy efforts play in advancing the interests of associations and their members. Hear how all association employees – both GR professionals and other employees – can help advance the organization’s policy objectives. Get an overview of the related regulatory compliance obligations that all association professionals must understand. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

Jonathan Gilad
Jim Kahl, Whiteford Taylor & Preston

*All events are online at Eastern Daylight Time unless otherwise noted.

Fri 6/20 at 3 p.m. – Nonprofit Consultants Collaborative Monthly Networking Meeting

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 sharing of good news and topics or questions from the group. More info/register.

Organizer: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Mon 6/23 at 8 a.m. – Mastering Corporate Sponsorships (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)

Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, CNP, principal and founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Guest: Bruce Rosenthal, sponsorship consultant, Bruce Rosenthal Associates

Mon 6/23 at 12 p.m. – Strategic Planning for Crisis-Ready Events

Learn about the essential strategies event professionals need to prepare for the unexpected — from natural disasters and protests to onsite emergencies. Hear real-world lessons in identifying risks early, preparing teams, and responding with speed and clarity when crises hit. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.

Host: Skift Meetings

Speakers:

Mike Carlucci, Chief Operating Officer, Clarion Events
Lisa Werner, Founding Partner and Lead Consultant, VWV Consulting

Mon 6/23 at 12 p.m. – Staying Calm in the Face of Chaos

It isn’t a question of if your association will experience a crisis, it’s when. Whether you have a board member who garners unwanted media attention, issues around new policies from the current Administration, or a disgruntled member venting on social media, many association crises start small and grow because the issue wasn’t addressed initially. Learn how to plan for crisis, identify the crisis early, and understand the actions you need to take today to be prepared for the future. More info/register.

Host: Association Xchange

Speaker: Dr. Marc Willis, Director of Communications, U.S. Dept. of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management, and COO, Willis Communications

Mon 6/23 at 3 p.m. – Culture by Design: How Association Leaders Are Shaping Stronger Teams and Boards

Two powerhouse CEOs who are redefining how associations build strong, intentional cultures will share real-world wins, lessons learned, and the secret sauce behind their leadership. Hear what it means to build culture at both the staff and board levels intentionally. From navigating values alignment to designing systems that reinforce belonging and performance, this candid conversation is packed with insights on leading with purpose, clarity, and care. More info/register.

Host: Association Rock Stars – Lowell Aplebaum, founder, Vista Cova

Speakers:

Michelle Mills Clement, Chicago Association of REALTORS®
Steven Stout, Texas Society of Association Executives

Tue 6/24 at 10:30 a.m. 10 Minute Meditation

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

Tue 6/24 at 11 a.m. – Reinventing Your Revenue Strategy: How to Take the First Step

Learn how to analyze your current revenue streams and identify gaps. Explore brainstorming techniques for revenue diversification ideas. Hear how to prioritize initiatives based on impact and feasibility. The panel will share real-life examples that have helped associations move from overwhelmed to seeing measurable progress. More info/register.

Host: The Event ROI Coach

Speakers:

Bruce Rosenthal, Bruce Rosenthal Associates, LLC
Barbara J. Armentrout, CAE, BJA Solutions for Associations
Vinnu Deshetty, Event ROI Coach

Tue 6/24 at 11 a.m. – Executive Compensation and Other Employee Benefit Considerations in NFPs

Learn about the different types of executive compensation and employee benefits commonly encountered at not-for-profit organizations, such as 457(b), 457(f) and other deferred compensation agreements. Hear background information on these compensation vehicles and the accounting and reporting for such plans, including a review of Form 990 considerations. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Rebecca Horton, Director at O’Connor Consulting Services

Tue 6/24 at 12 p.m. – Wellness at Work Isn’t Optional, It’s Essential

Explore the future of human performance, wellness innovations, and how to build workplaces that support well-being at every level. No longer a nice-to-have, leaders are realizing that the health and well-being of their workers can directly affect their culture and the bottom line of their business. More info/register.

Host: Sarah Sladek, founder, XYZ University

Guest: Laura Putnam, CEO of Motion Infusion and author of Workplace Wellness That Works

Tue 6/24 at 12 p.m. – The Art of Sponsorship: Planning, Pitching, and Partnership

Discover how to identify and reach the decision-makers in a sponsor prospect, communicate your sponsor value proposition in a way that resonates with them, and build lasting partnerships that maximize value on both ends. More info/register.

Host: Zzeem Consulting

Tue 6/24 at 1 p.m. – Update on Executive Actions Affecting Federally Funded Nonprofits

Hear an overview of critical Executive Orders, their implementation and impact on nonprofits. Explore proactive strategies that nonprofit leaders can adopt in response to these significant changes, empowering organizations to adapt effectively while continuing to fulfill their missions. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speakers:

Tip Tucker Kendall, Executive Director, National Grants Management Association
Scott Sheffler, Partner at Washington DC law firm of Feldesman Leifer LLP

Tue 6/24 at 1 p.m. – Boosted by AI: How NPOs & Associations Can Grow Non Dues Revenue & Sponsors

Learn about using AI tools to work faster, market smarter, and grow non-dues income through sponsorships, events, digital content, and more. Hear what’s working right now, including the AI tools that actually save time and make money. No fluff. No theory. Just revenue-generating strategy you can put to work this quarter. More info/register.

Host: Lori Zoss Kraska, MBA, CFRE, founder and CEO, Growth Owl

Guest: Kelly Hernandez, CEO, Nonprofit Marketing Nerds

Tue 6/24 at 1:30 p.m. – Next-Level Leadership: Tools to Lead, Speak, and Succeed

Leadership in the association space requires more than just managing operations—it calls for vision, influence, and the ability to communicate with clarity and confidence. Explore practical tools and techniques to help association professionals step into their next level of leadership. Learn strategies to elevate your executive presence, strengthen communication skills, and lead with greater impact. More info/register.

Host: Association Latinos

Tue 6/24 at 2 p.m. – Modern Association Marketing: Actionable Playbooks for Growth

Hear about two targeted marketing plays tailored for associations of any size. Whether you’re looking to make the most of limited resources or refine a strategy that’s already in motion, you’ll walk away with actionable steps to support some of your biggest priorities—event success, content-driven engagement, and membership growth. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

Taylor Kessel-Salomonsson, Chief Growth Officer, Naylor Association Solutions
Tamara Perry-Lunardo, Vice President, Content Services, Naylor Association Solutions
Angela Kisskeys, President, Associations North

Tue 6/24 at 3 p.m. – Beyond Metrics: Transforming Event Data into Strategic Success

Understanding how to capture and leverage attendee and member data, measure engagement, and demonstrate ROI is essential for refining event strategies. Hear how to use data to optimize meeting planning, improve attendee experiences, and drive more impactful event outcomes. Get actionable strategies for turning event data into a powerful tool for decision-making, maximizing engagement, and delivering measurable results. More info/register.

Host: Cadmium

Speakers:

Julie Holtgrave, CMP, HMCC, Chief Operations and Event Officer, American College of Lifestyle Medicine
Jennifer Kerhin, CEM, CMP, CEO, SB Expos & Events
Erica Platner, Director of Events, National Home Infusion Association
Amanda Law (Moderator), Event Marketing Manager, Cadmium

Wed 6/25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Career and Job Board Platforms Demo Day

Attend presentations from a limited number of industry partners that offer career and job board platforms. Experts will be showcasing apps and sharing their knowledge. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Participants: Madgex (a Wiley brand), SmartJobBoard, YM Careers by Momentive Software, Web Scribble, and Naylor Association Solutions

Wed 6/25 at 10 a.m. – The AMS-less Tech Stack Explained

Learn what’s driving associations away from AMS platforms—and toward ecosystems, key indicators that your organization is ready to make the move, how to build a foundational stack with integrated ecommerce, and strategies for breaking down data silos, and future-proofing with AI, SSO, and seamless integrations. More info/register.

Host: Wicket

Wed 6/25 at 11 a.m. – How to Win: Be a Category of One (Leadership for SMBs and Entrepreneurs)

Learn about five essential areas to become a Category of One where you Win by not competing. Some of these principles you may already follow, others may surprise you and may provide new insight. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Wade Tetsuka, CPA, President, UST

Wed 6/25 at 11:30 a.m. – Adventures in Event Registration: Chaos, Hacks, and Hope

Learn what’s really blocking registrations and hear about bold ideas, clever hacks, and strategic plays that have helped event leaders turn the tide. More info/register.

Host: Bizzabo

Speakers:

Samantha Arth, Project Manager II, Marketing & Events, Axon
Daniel McCartt, Senior Event Manager, Listings, Nasdaq
Gabrielle Scott, Director, Product Marketing, Bizzabo

Wed 6/25 at 12 p.m. – Chapter Roundtable: Mini-Mastermind Sessions for Chapter-Based Organizations (Alexandria 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 jam sessions with lunch, not lectures. You’ll leave with actionable ideas, insights, and inspirations you can put to work right away. Location: Alexandria VA. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: re:Members

Wed 6/25 at 12 p.m. – Vetting and Managing Your MSP: What Every Nonprofit Must Know

Many nonprofits rely on MSPs to manage IT, but few know how to evaluate their performance, question their recommendations, or hold them accountable. Learn about the red flags your MSP doesn’t want you to notice, what questions you must be asking (and how to interpret the answers), how to verify your MSP’s security practices without needing tech expertise, and why your board should care-and how to loop them in effectively. More info/register.

Host: Brian Scott, President / CTO / CISO, ClearTone Consulting LLC

Wed 6/25 at 1 p.m. – How to Pick the Right AMS: 5 Secrets to Make Your Search Easy, Fast, and Stress-Free

Learn five proven strategies that will strip away confusion and put you firmly in control of the AMS selection process. Get an easy-to-implement checklist that everyone from front-line staff to the board can understand and discover how to focus only on the requirements that truly matter, shaving weeks off your timeline while protecting your sanity. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speakers:

David Schulman, Co-Founder at Beacon Tech Research
Vanessa Dennison, Owner of Dennison & Associates

Wed 6/25 at 1 p.m. – Our KPI is Joy: How Live Events Catalyze Happiness, Productivity, and Trust

Think beyond logistics and see events as powerful catalysts for joy, trust, and collaboration. Hear bold ideas on why joy must be a core metric—and how associations can design events that don’t just inform, but transform. Learn about the future of events, why joy is serious business, and how we can design gatherings that bring people together in lasting, meaningful ways. More info/register.

Host: KiKi L’Italien, Editor-in-Chief, Association Chat, and VP of Marketing and Community Engagement, Big Red M

Guest: Tahira Endean, Head of Program at IMEX and author of Our KPI is Joy: How Live Events Catalyze Happiness, Productivity, and Trust

Wed 6/25 at 1 p.m. – Modern Learning Strategies for the Modern Association

Your members expect more than one-size-fits-all courses—they’re looking for personalized learning from a trusted source, opportunities to connect with peers, and content delivered in a way that fits their real lives. Learn how leading associations are rethinking their approach to learning design—moving beyond generic course catalogs to create engaging, strategic experiences that meet members where they are and drive lasting impact, deeper engagement, and predictable revenue. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: Forj

Speakers: Andy Hicken, VP of Technology, and Terri Herrmann, Chief Marketing Officer, Forj

Wed 6/25 at 1 p.m. – Social Sustainability: The Next Wave of Diversity & Inclusion

Learn how to design events that empower communities, amplify marginalized voices and prioritize accessibility while recognizing the human impact of environmental sustainability, along with learning actionable strategies to integrate social sustainability principles into every aspect of your event planning process. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.

Host: Meetings Today

Speaker: Zoe Moore, Diversity Practitioner | Consultant | Strategist

Wed 6/25 at 2 p.m. – Creating Content with just a Click: Turn One Idea into Dozens with AI (AI Innovation Labs with Beth Z, Your Nerdy Best Friend)

Transform a single idea into a full-blown content strategy. From marketing campaigns to thought leadership pieces, you’ll discover how AI tools can streamline your workflow, boost engagement, and keep your brand shining… all before your coffee gets cold. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: re:Members

Speaker: Beth Ziesenis: Author. Speaker. Nerd.

Wed 6/25 at 2 p.m. – Transforming Sponsorships Into Strategic Partnerships

Explore how to elevate sponsorships beyond logo placement and one-off events, turning them into dynamic, strategic partnerships that drive mutual growth. Learn how to identify and align with the right partners, create shared goals and co-branded success, and measure ROI and demonstrate long-term value. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.

Host: Northstar Meetings Group

Speakers:

Jennifer D. Collins, CMP, President & CEO, JDC Events
Jeanne B. Dubosse, CMP, Founder & CEO, Boss Collective; Executive Producer; Brand Experience Architect
Lizzie Wilcox (moderator), Associate Editor, Northstar Meetings Group

Wed 6/25 at 2 p.m. – June FBO Meet Up

Bring your pressing problems and look forward to an engaging conversation with your colleagues sharing their experiences and potential solutions. Last month we had an engaging discussion on the use of AI. We are going to continue that discussion plus any other topics of interest. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE Finance and Business Operations Professionals Advisory Council (including HR)

Thu 6/26 at 11 a.m. – Become a Social Media Sales Warrior: Tactics for Outmaneuvering, Outconnecting, and Outclosing

Learn about the core principles of social selling, identifying and leveraging key decision-makers via social media, applying strategic tagging and engagement tactics, extracting intelligence from prospect activity and engagement patterns, creating content that drives conversations and conversions, navigating digital communities and groups for strategic positioning, developing and maintaining a sales-oriented social media routine, and understanding the ethical boundaries of social selling. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education.

Speaker: Justin Goldstein, Director, Corporate Relations at The Bill of Rights Institute

Thu 6/26 at 11 a.m. – Don’t Get Left Behind: How to Use AI Agents to Perform Event Magic

Learn what AI agents are actually doing for event teams and attendees. Find out how AI agents can automate the most tedious parts of event management. Hear about use cases for the attendee experience with AI concierges and what’s next for AI-powered event apps. More info/register.

Host: EventMobi

Speakers:

Event Industry News co-founder Adam Parry
EventMobi CEO Bob Vaez

Thu 6/26 at 11 a.m. – The Power of Personalization: Because in Events, One-Size-Fits-None

Learn how the smartest event organizers are moving beyond mass communication to create tailored, meaningful journeys, from the moment participants are acquired, to when they return next year. Hear from two industry trailblazers who have helped some of the world’s biggest events connect with their audiences in more human, data-driven ways. More info/register.

Host: Grip

Speakers:

Dorota Wallusch, International Affairs, Grupa MTP
Rachel Stephan, Founder and CEO, Snöball
Gina Kay, Marketing Manager, International Confex
Hew Leith (moderator), SVP of Marketing, Grip

Thu 6/26 at 1 p.m. – Master the Repeatable Events Formula

Hear about the blueprint behind consistently successful events—he Repeatable Events Formula—and real-world examples from industry leaders who have mastered the art of replicable excellence, demonstrating how systematic approaches transform one-time successes into predictable wins. Learn how implementing a repeatable formula becomes the difference-maker in sustainable event success. More info/register.

Host: Bizbash

Speakers: Camille Arnold, Senior Manager, Industry Solutions Marketing, and Zach Napolitano, Senior Manager, Product Marketing, Cvent

Thu 6/26 at 3 p.m. – Intro to AI Webinar for Associations and Nonprofits

Learn about Generative AI and Large Language Models and how they work. Get an up-close look at how an actual AI expert utilizes these tools in real-world scenarios. More info/register.

Host: Sidecar

Speakers:

Erica Salm Rench, CMO, Sidecar
Thomas Altman, Co-founder, Tasio

Thu 6/26 at 3 p.m. – 2025 Wine & Tech DC (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

Fri 6/27 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 lack community. More info/register.

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

Creative Commons licensed photo by Gennady Zakharin via Unsplash

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Association Brain Food: 6.6.25

The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community…

Association Brain Food won’t be in your inbox next Friday (June 13) because I’m spending time with my elderly parents next week. You’ll get the next edition on Friday, June 20.

Membership app. Since everyone’s on their phones, a membership app should be an easy member engagement win, right? Nope, you can’t build it and expect them to come. Clowder shares marketing tactics that will entice members to download and use your app.

Member experience. Fíonta examines what members value these days and describes strategies for using technology to deliver a more satisfying member experience.

Association success habits. In their work with cross-departmental teams, re:Members has noticed differences between thriving associations and those who are merely surviving. They describe five success habits of growth-oriented associations—habits that help them overcome the challenges every association is facing now.

Competitive advantage. Researchers at MIT Sloan Management Review say AI won’t be a competitive advantage when everyone uses it. It homogenizes your offerings. So what’s your edge? Focus on human creativity and the individuals and relationships that drive that creativity.

AI is eating itself. Because AI-generated content is fed back into the AI training pipelines for future models, AI is getting “dumber, less diverse, and more error-prone.” Patrick Moorhead at The Sovereign CMO describes how real, human-led content stacks up against the synthetic flood. He says human content is the most underrated growth strategy right now.

SEO. Nick Nelson at TopRank Marketing explains what’s happening with search now that AI has entered the results and what B2B marketers can do to keep traffic coming in.

Repurposing webinars. eLearningDOC describes the benefits of turning your webinars into self-paced, interactive learning experiences. They explain how to extend the life of your webinars while expanding your association’s educational portfolio.

Belonging. KiKi L’Italien at Association Chat shares lessons for associations about belonging. She describes three ways to bring what author Charles Vogl calls “campfire experiences” to members and attendees.

Connections. Amanda Kaiser points out how members are constantly making bids for connections. Does your association’s culture and structure encourage members and staff to react positively to those bids?

Snacks

10 association executives share their top book recommendations. | Najla Brown, Naylor Association Solutions

Want to read a classic alongside others? Check out this Substack book group directory. | Simon Haisell, Footnotes and Tangents

Straight from the source: top ways to ensure your content performs well in the Google search engine’s AI results. | Google for Developers

You never grow old at the table

Calamari isn’t just for Christmas Eve. I love this recipe for calamari in an enhanced marinara. My changes: add bacon with the onion, increase the red pepper flakes, add a hefty amount of tomato paste, and sub pureed whole tomatoes for stewed tomatoes. I served it over bucatini and alongside roasted broccoli with red onion and garlic powder.

One-pot beef stroganoff is really made in one pot, noodles and all. I used regular instead of sweet onion, added red bell and jalapeño pepper, subbed sherry for white wine, and smoked for regular paprika.

Here’s a quick one: stir-fried shrimp with spicy orange sauce. Serve it with spicy broccoli with garlic and ginger (I added some Chinese five spice powder too) and brown rice.

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Fri 6/6 at 11 a.m.* – ASAE Capitol Hill Update: The Latest on Tax Reform

Tax reform is heating up in Congress, with a House vote scheduled which will be followed by Senate review. Key proposals include expanding Unrelated Business Taxable Income (UBI) to include fringe benefits related to parking and transportation, as well as royalites from the sale or licensing of organizational names or logos. ASAE and its Community Impact Coalition (CIC), launched in January, have been working proactively to educate the 119th Congress on the essential social and economic role of associations and other tax-exempt organizations. Gain real-time updates from Capitol Hill and learn about the specific threats. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

Mary Kate Cunningham, CAE, Chief Public Policy and Governance Officer, ASAE
Kyle Hayes, Senior Director of Public Policy, ASAE
Ali Bedford, Vice President, Integer, LLC

*All events are online at Eastern Daylight Time unless otherwise noted.

Mon 6/9 at 8 a.m. – Ageism in the Hiring Process (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)

Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, CNP, principal and founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Guests: Anuja Miner, Barry Pilson, and Nancy Frohman

Tue 6/10 at 12 p.m. – Boardroom Ready: Building a Business Case for Tech Investment

Learn how to present a clear, data-driven case to your board for investment in for new software, align your technology needs with organizational goals, and what today’s most forward-thinking associations are doing to future-proof their tech stack. More info/register.

Host: Momentive

Speakers:

Rebecca Achurch, Chief Executive Officer, Achurch Consulting, LLC
Tirrah Switzer, Vice President of Product Marketing, Momentive Software

Tue 6/10 at 12 p.m. – Digital vs Transformation: A Leadership Discussion

Your industry has changed with aggressive new entrants, increased costs, and new tech (e.g., AI) opening fascinating new opportunities. Digital transformation to the rescue! Your organization may have outgrown its current tech stack and vendors are knocking at the door with fascinating (and “transformative”) new solutions. But will the effects be “transformative” and is any of it aligned with your overall strategy? Let’s talk about strategic digital transformation, digital transformation mistakes to avoid, change management best practices that work, and more. More info/register.

Host: Braintrust Professional Institute

Speakers: Randall Craig and Ronja Francoeur, Braintrust Professional Institute

Tue 6/10 at 12 p.m. – Tech Tuesday: Is Your Organization a Cybersecurity Target?

We’re tackling real-world cybersecurity breaches, with a big focus on phishing attacks. Want to see something wild? Our guests will even demonstrate a live phishing attack. You’ll leave with practical strategies to protect your organization. Plus, bring your own stories—let’s learn together. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE Technology Professionals Advisory Council

Moderators:

Larry Covert, Senior Director, Information Technology, ASAE
Dave Coriale, President, DelCor Technology Solutions

Guests: cybersecurity pros Chris Ecker, CTO and Andrew Leggett, Director, Cybersecurity Operations from DelCor

Tue 6/10 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 6/10 at 1 p.m. – AI in Hiring: Why Human Resources Is Still Human

AI is rapidly transforming the hiring landscape—from resume screening and candidate sourcing to interview scheduling and skills assessments. But while AI can streamline processes and enhance efficiency, it’s no replacement for the human touch. Learn how organizations can use AI tools to enhance, not replace, the relationships and insights that drive effective hiring. Hear real-world examples and best practices for balancing technology with the empathy, intuition, and judgment that only humans bring to hiring. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Jaime Hirschfeld, Director of Client Sales and Services at FlexProfessionals LLC

Wed 6/11 at 9 a.m. – Leading and Navigating Through Change (Stamford CT)

This Connecticut event brings together association professionals and industry innovators to network, share insights, and explore new opportunities. Key topics like innovation, member engagement, revenue generation, attracting top talent, and navigating political and regulatory shifts. Interactive and exchanging ideas with subject matter experts, fellow leaders, gain new perspectives, and leave with valuable takeaways to lead your association through change. Location: Stamford CT. More info/register.

Host: Metro NYSAE and American Pet Products Association

Facilitator: Eric Curtis, CEO & Managing Partner, Curtis Strategy

Wed 6/11 at 11 a.m. – 3 Easy Ways Data Can Transform Sponsor Programs

Learn how to use available data to craft tailored sponsorship opportunities that align with sponsor goals. Discover how easy-to-create data reports can demonstrate ROI and build trust with sponsors. Gain tips for using data insights to enhance sponsor engagement and improve long-term retention. More info/register.

Host: The Event ROI Coach

Speakers:

Bruce Rosenthal, Bruce Rosenthal Associates, LLC
Barbara J. Armentrout, CAE, BJA Solutions for Associations
Vinnu Deshetty, Event ROI Coach

Wed 6/11 at 11 a.m. – What’s Working Now: 5 Proven Campaigns to Drive Member Engagement

Hear about five real-world membership campaigns—from renewals and re-engagement to acquisition—that delivered impressive results. Learn how organizations are using timely, conversational outreach to connect with members in meaningful ways (and get measurable ROI). 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Ryan Graham, Chief Revenue Officer, PropFuel

Wed 6/11 at 11 a.m. – Our KPI is Joy: How Live Events Catalyze Happiness, Productivity, and Trust

Host: KiKi L’Italien, Editor-in-Chief, Association Chat, and VP of Marketing and Community Engagement, Big Red M

Guest: Tahira Endean, Head of Program at IMEX and author of Our KPI is Joy: How Live Events Catalyze Happiness, Productivity, and Trust

Wed 6/11 at 12 p.m. – Small Steps, BIG Results: Improving Your Website Without a Major Redesign

Learn about impactful, quick-to-execute website initiatives that yield BIG results. Hear success stories and initiatives you can implement right away – without a big investment to refresh your website design; test your site’s usability; create an analytics/SEO reporting dashboard; review, refine and retire your content; and consolidate your digital presence. More info/register.

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

Speakers: Dan Scheeler, CAE, Chief Operating Officer; Laura Graham, Sr. Solutions Consultant; and Steven Russell, Solutions Consultant, Results Direct

Wed 6/11 at 12 p.m. – Revamp, Replace, or Right-Size: A “Love It or List It” Approach to Digital Transformation

Cut through the noise with an approach inspired by “Love It or List It” and designed to transform your tech strategy from reactive to proactive. Learn how to diagnose your tech’s real ROI, align spending with strategic goals, and when to plan and when to pivot, with audience needs driving every decision. More info/register.

Host: Halmyre

Speakers:

Ashish Malik, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, 108 ideaspace
Christine Saunders, Founder and President, Halmyre

Wed 6/11 at 1 p.m. – How Are Executive Orders Impacting Associations? A Real-Time Check-in With Association Leaders

Listen in on a real-time check-in with association executives from across different industries on how the latest executive orders are impacting their work, their members, and their missions and what they’re doing about it. We’ll kick this session off with remarks from the panel and then open up the discussion to the audience. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education.

Speakers:

Joanna M. Pineda, CEO & Chief Troublemaker, Matrix Group International
Matthew Hughes, President and CEO at World Affairs Councils of America
Linda Akutagawa, President & CEO at Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics
Tip Tucker Kendall, Executive Director, National Grants Management Association

Wed 6/11 at 2 p.m. – From Emails to Innovation: Maximizing AI’s Potential in Associations (AI Innovation Labs with Beth Z, Your Nerdy Best Friend)

AI isn’t just for emails. Discover how to use it to create innovative strategies that transform member experiences. Learn tools and tips to start using AI right away and rethink your approach to building stronger, more personalized member relationships. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: re:Members

Speaker: Beth Ziesenis: Author. Speaker. Nerd.

Wed 6/11 at 2 p.m. – How to Build an Advocacy Campaign in 1 Day (Yes, Really)

When a new executive order, an unexpected crisis, or a policy change directly affects your organization or members, speed is critical. Learn how to launch an impactful advocacy campaign in as little as 8 hours. Find out how to successfully launch rapid-response campaigns and hear about real examples, tools the panelists rely on, and tips to use right away. More info/register.

Host: VoterVoice

Speakers:

Maynard Friesz, Vice President, Policy & Advocacy, Cure SMA
Jawanda Mast, Grassroots Advocacy Manager, National Down Syndrome Congress
David Chase, Vice President, Policy & Advocacy, Small Business Majority
Sherry Whitworth (moderator), Founder, The Advocacy Coach

Wed 6/11 at 2 p.m. – Building Your Meeting Around Your Destination

In today’s world of experiential events, the where of your meeting is nearly as important as the why. Explore how to design meetings and events that are deeply rooted in their destination—where every detail, from the theme to the team-building activities, tells a local story. Learn how to let your destination drive the meeting’s theme; curate entertainment, gifts and more that reflect the local culture; collaborate with the chef to design meals with local flavor; and offer locally inspired activities—from walking tours to museum scavenger hunts. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.

Host: Northstar Meetings Group

Speakers:

Bonni Scepkowski, President & CSO, Stellar Meetings & Events
Tracy Stuckrath, Founder, Thrive! Meetings & Events
Sarah J.F. Braley (moderator), Managing Editor, Northstar Meetings Group

Thu 6/12 at 11 a.m. – Event Marketing Mastery: Turning Conferences Into Revenue Generators

Discover how to optimize your event marketing strategy for maximum ROI. From setting clear goals and leveraging interactive booth experiences to making meaningful connections on the ground, learn how to transform event participation into measurable pipeline impact. Get practical tips on planning ahead, tracking success metrics, and balancing relationship-building with lead generation. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Sam Bush, Partner Marketing Manager at Netstock

Thu 6/12 at 11 a.m. – 2025 Learning Insights to Power Your Growth

Are your learning programs keeping pace with what members expect today? Hear about the top takeaways from the latest Association Trends Study. Discover the biggest gaps between what members want and what associations deliver through learning; how early technology adoption and AI are becoming critical to loyalty and growth; and steps to modernize learning experiences and drive stronger outcomes. More info/register.

Host: Momentive

Speaker: Jesse Shorts, Learning Programs Expert at Momentive Software

Thu 6/12 at 11 a.m. – Improving AI Results: Bias, Prompts, Compliance

Learn how leading questions skew results and craft balanced prompts for accurate AI responses – a strategy we’ve successfully implemented for RAPS. Hear about essential prompt engineering techniques. Understand key settings for data safety and accuracy while navigating AI risks like bias and misinformation. Join us in harnessing AI responsibly and ethically, as demonstrated by RAPS. More info/register.

Host: Pumex

Thu 6/12 at 1 p.m. – Broadcast to Breakthrough: Turning Webinars Into Engagement Powerhouses

In today’s crowded digital landscape, hosting a webinar is just the beginning. How do you ensure your efforts translate into meaningful engagement and lasting impact? Hear proven strategies for making your webinar the springboard for deeper connections, building brand loyalty, and driving measurable results. Discover actionable tactics to nurture leads, foster meaningful post-event interactions, and stand out in a competitive market. Get the tools to turn one-time attendees into long-term relationships. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education.

Speakers:

Kate Coffey-Bacon, VP of Marketing and Events, US Transactions Corporation/UST Education
Amiee Keenan, Founder at The ISV Society
Amanda Sherry, VP Marketing at Western Computer

Thu 6/12 at 1 p.m. – Essential Economic Update: Mid-Year 2025

How do associations maintain their investment goals with market changes in 2025? Learn about the risks and potential rewards in the current market and economic environment, the importance of portfolio diversification, how tariffs work and their potential effects, both positive and negative, three potential paths forward as we navigate the administration’s global trade policies, recessions and their effect on financial markets, and the importance of a sound investment strategy, built to weather all types of economic and market environments for your association. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speaker: Bill Fisher, Senior Consultant, Fiducient Advisors

Thu 6/12 at 3 p.m. – Book Launch Party: Turn Corporate Sponsorships into Mission-Aligned Revenue

This isn’t just another book launch—it’s a conversation about the future of association revenue. Learn an approach to customized, consultative partnerships reinforced with a marketing agency model; how to increase and diversify revenue without compromising your association’s mission and values; strategies to create lasting value for both sponsors and members; and real-world lessons on navigating economic shifts and evolving sponsor expectations. More info/register.

Host: Farhad Khan, CEO, Member Lounge

Guest: Bruce Rosenthal, sponsorship strategist and author of Mastering Association Corporate Sponsorships: How to Create Strategic Partnerships that Add Revenue and Member Value

Mon 6/16 at 8 a.m. – TBA (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)

Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, CNP, principal and founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Guest: Walt Leger III, President & CEO, New Orleans & Company

Mon 6/16 at 4:30 p.m. CDT – 2025 AMS Fest Chicago Happy Hour

Organizer: Association Women Technology Champions

Tue 6/17 at 10:30 a.m. – Incentivizing PAC Contributions

Learn what’s legal, what works, and what to avoid. More info/register.

Host: Gary Gallant, Managing Partner, Gallant Law Group

Tue 6/17 at 12 p.m. – CRVM June 2025 Crunch and Munch

Crunch and Munch is a chance to come together once a month with peers for a casual conversation on hot topics relevant to the component relations and volunteer management community. Come prepared to share your successes, challenges and ideas. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE Component Relations and Volunteer Management

Tue 6/17 at 2 p.m. – There’s No AI in Writing: Making Association Content More Authentic (AI Innovation Labs with Beth Z, Your Nerdy Best Friend)

Tired of bland, AI-generated content? So are your members. Learn how to spot AI writing and elevate it into authentic, impactful content, and, gasp, human-sounding material. And yes, you can do this while still taking advantage of the speed and ease that AI provides. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: re:Members

Speaker: Beth Ziesenis: Author. Speaker. Nerd.

Tue 6/17 at 2 p.m. – The Future of Association Boards (FAB) Community Dialogue

More info/register.

Host: Jeff De Cagna, executive advisor, Foresight First

Wed 6/18 at 10 a.m. – Engaging Members Across the Digital Divide

Today’s members expect seamless, engaging experiences, whether they’re on your website or using your mobile app. Hear about strategies for creating a unified member engagement strategy that maximizes engagement and links your web and mobile app experiences. Learn from real-world examples of associations that have successfully bridged the divide and see how you can create fluid member journeys that transition smoothly across devices and platforms to meet your members where they are—and keep them coming back. More info/register.

Host: Results Direct | RD Mobile

Speakers: Cecilia Satovich, Executive VP; Laura Graham, Senior Solutions Consultant; and Joel Branaman, Director of Mobile Sales, North America, Results Direct | RD Mobile

Wed 6/18 at 1 p.m. – The State of Associations

Hear the panel discuss what their organizations are seeing with their memberships, unique ways associations should provide connections and engage younger members, where associations can leverage advantages to recruit staff and volunteers, what associations need to think through with the evolution of events and member value, and the positioning and messaging of associations and why they’re indispensable to society. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Hosts: Fonteva and Protech

Speakers:

Jim Anderson, President & CEO, California Society of Association Executives
Angela Kisskeys, President, Association North
Donna Oser, CAE, President & CEO, Michigan Society of Association Executives
Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, Executive Director, Texas Society of Association Executives

Wed 6/18 at 2:30 p.m. – Contract Cancellations: 4 Essential Perspectives

Cancellations of an event contract are rarely straightforward. When unexpected changes arise, contracts become the critical foundation for making the right decisions. Who has the right to cancel? What happens when there isn’t a clear contractual reason? And how do you protect your event if contract cancellation becomes necessary? Hear about 4 critical perspectives that every planner must understand when it comes to contract cancellations. Learn how to navigate the complexities, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your contracts truly protect your interests when plans change. More info/register.

Host: Heather Reid, CEO and founder, Planner Protect

Wed 6/18 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. 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

Thu 6/19 at 1 p.m. – Streamlining Event Planning with AI Tools

Uncover AI-driven strategies and tools to simplify event planning, improve attendee engagement, and ensure event success. More info/register.

Host: Missionfuel

Fri 6/20 at 3 p.m. – Nonprofit Consultants Collaborative Monthly Networking Meeting

Organizer: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Tue 6/24 at 10:30 a.m. 10 Minute Meditation

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

Tue 6/24 at 11 a.m. – Reinventing Your Revenue Strategy: How to Take the First Step

Host: The Event ROI Coach

Speakers:

Bruce Rosenthal, Bruce Rosenthal Associates, LLC
Barbara J. Armentrout, CAE, BJA Solutions for Associations
Vinnu Deshetty, Event ROI Coach

Tue 6/24 at 11 a.m. – Executive Compensation and Other Employee Benefit Considerations in NFPs

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Rebecca Horton, Director at O’Connor Consulting Services

Tue 6/24 at 1 p.m. – Update on Executive Actions Affecting Federally Funded Nonprofits

Host: UST Education

Speakers:

Tip Tucker Kendall, Executive Director, National Grants Management Association
Scott Sheffler, Partner at Washington DC law firm of Feldesman Leifer LLP

Tue 6/24 at 1 p.m. – Boosted by AI: How NPOs & Associations Can Grow Non Dues Revenue & Sponsors

Host: Lori Zoss Kraska, MBA, CFRE, founder and CEO, Growth Owl

Guest: Kelly Hernandez, CEO, Nonprofit Marketing Nerds

Wed 6/25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Career and Job Board Platforms Demo Day

Attend presentations from a limited number of industry partners that offer career and job board platforms. Experts will be showcasing apps and sharing their knowledge. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Participants: Madgex (a Wiley brand), SmartJobBoard, YM Careers by Momentive Software, Web Scribble, and Naylor Association Solutions,

Wed 6/25 at 12 p.m. – Chapter Roundtable: Mini-Mastermind Sessions for Chapter-Based Organizations (Alexandria VA)

Host: re:Members

Wed 6/25 at 2 p.m. – Creating Content with just a Click: Turn One Idea into Dozens with AI (AI Innovation Labs with Beth Z, Your Nerdy Best Friend)

Host: re:Members

Speaker: Beth Ziesenis: Author. Speaker. Nerd.

Thu 6/26 at 11 a.m. – Become a Social Media Sales Warrior: Tactics for Outmaneuvering, Outconnecting, and Outclosing

Host: UST Education.

Speaker: Justin Goldstein, Director, Corporate Relations at The Bill of Rights Institute

Thu 6/26 at 1 p.m. – The Growth Mindset: How Nonprofits Can Thrive Despite Limited Resources

Host: UST Education.

Speaker: Henry Stoever, Founder & Managing Principal at Windsor Strategy

Thu 6/26 at 3 p.m. – 2025 Wine & Tech DC (Washington DC)

Organizer: Association Women Technology Champions

Fri 6/27 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 lack community. More info/register.

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

Association Brain Food Weekly is published Friday mornings. If you’re offering free professional development to the association community, please send me the link via email by Wednesday afternoon the week before your event is scheduled.

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Association Brain Food: 5.30.25

The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community…

Non-dues revenue. ICMA envisioned transforming its event sponsorships into year-round partnerships, but they couldn’t do it without the cooperation of staff across the association. Bruce Rosenthal and Dan Kowitz share the story behind this successful collaboration and the lucrative revenue stream generated by ICMA’s new corporate partnership program.

Awards program. OpenWater shares tactics for increasing member participation in awards programs. They explain how to boost awareness and interest, increase the perception of fairness, remove barriers to entry, and showcase the program’s value to members.

Member recruitment. YourMembership describes 13 tactics used by small-staff associations to attract and recruit new members. The entire list seems pretty essential to me. Has your association tried them all?

Cognitive risk. In “an environment built for speed, distraction, and artificial fluency,” we’re losing more than our ability to read deeply—we’re losing cognitive abilities, such as the capacity for sustained attention, nuanced comprehension, and tolerance for ambiguity. Carl Hendrick at The Learning Dispatch says when our minds have become “conditioned to expect ease, immediacy, and constant stimulation… Reading becomes not only a cognitive act, but a civic one: a rehearsal for the intellectual stamina that democracy requires.”

AI hack. By now, you’ve probably heard about the Chicago Sun-Times’ summer reading list of books that don’t exist—here’s Ted Gioia’s take. A “writer” hired by King Features, a content syndication company, relied on AI to do their work and never checked the copy. Unreal. Imagine how many honest writers would love to work on a piece like that, but instead King Features paid bottom-of-the-barrel prices for a hack job. You get what you pay for.

Learning revenue. D2L shares research describing the challenges faced by associations offering virtual learning and by those relying solely on in-person learning. They also explain how associations have adjusted their business models to monetize learning programs. The good news for members and their employers: 74% of associations plan to increase their learning budget, the only way to outperform the competition.

Humanities and AI. D. Graham Burnett writes at The New Yorker (archived link) about an assignment he gave his Princeton students: talk with an AI chatbot about the history of attention and turn in four pages of edited results. I was impressed by the directions taken by his students. The “matching of wits” caused Burnett and his class to wonder if the humanities will survive AI. Based on their experiences, I’m feeling slightly hopeful about what he describes as “a new consciousness of ourselves.”

Association competition. Mark Athitakis at Associations Now explains why competitive analysis matters more than ever. Your rivals aren’t just other associations. For-profit and online resources (including those created by your own members) are reeling in your members’ dollars.

AI overuse syndrome. Nic Rowan at The Lamp believes the frequent use of AI and exposure to text composed by LLMs (like ChatGPT) changes the way people think, speak, and act. He calls it the AI mind meld. When you read his examples, you’ll see what he means. Yuck.

Snacks

Is classical liberalism for losers? Sigh. It’s not easy being a classical liberal. | Tyler Cowen, The Free Press

How to make the most of a trip to the art museum. | Sally Smith, Verily

America is in a late-republic stage, like Rome: History suggests republics don’t last more than 250 years. | interview with Niall Ferguson, Noema

You never grow old at the table

Temps have cooled as rain has settled into our area, so the time feels right for a one-pan chicken and mushrooms comfort dish. On the side, Brussels sprouts roasted with red onion, pepperoni, salami, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

During Memorial Day weekend, we hosted a cookout on a beautiful 70-something day. I made a four-bean salad inspired long ago by a version my Aunt Carol made when we visited her in RI. My recipe includes green beans, kidney beans, black beans, chickpeas, poblano pepper, red bell pepper, celery stalks, corn, sweet onion, sweet pickles, Italian parsley, and a dressing of apple cider vinegar, sugar, neutral oil, and salt.

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Mon 6/2 at 8 a.m.* – Diversifying Fundraising in a Chaotic Economy (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)

Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, CNP, principal and founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Guest: Roger Devine, schoolAuction.net

*All events are online at Eastern Daylight Time unless otherwise noted.

Tue 6/3 at 10:30 a.m. – LD-2 Lobbying Expenses

Understand the full scope of what must be reported. More info/register.

Host: Gary Gallant, Managing Partner, Gallant Law Group

Tue 6/3 at 12 p.m. – Bridging the Data Literacy Gap (Data Analytics Network)

Data literacy isn’t just about having access to data; it’s about empowering individuals at all levels of an organization to work with data confidently and competently. Learn about the “last mile” in data literacy, where subject matter experts need to transform raw data into actionable insights that drive decision-making and organizational success. Hear about the state of data literacy within the panelists’ associations; strategies to overcome challenges; and solutions for enhancing data literacy, including programs, tools, and techniques for building a data-literate workforce. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: Data Analytics Network

Speakers:

Justin Scott, PhD, CAE (Moderator), Vice President, Innovation & Analytics, Metals Service Center Institute
Reeda Kindred, Data Governance & Analytics Director, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies
Tori Miller Liu, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CIP, President & CEO, AIIM International
Wes Trochlil, Owner, Effective Database Management

Tue 6/3 at 12 p.m. – Revitalizing & Expanding Credentialing Programs: Strategies for Growth & Engagement

Learn about the three key phases of certification program management: first, how to examine and evaluate the overall “health” of a program using meaningful performance indicators; second, how to diagnose and analyze factors contributing to the need for potential changes and implement targeted improvements; and third, how to continuously assess, maintain, and evolve a certification program to meet changing industry needs. Explore strategies to align credentials with professional development goals, foster stakeholder engagement, and ensure long-term competitiveness. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

Cynthia Allen, President, SeaCrest Consulting Company
Amanda Dainis, CEO and Lead Psychometrician, Dainis and Company
Michael Mayer, President, Prolydian

Tue 6/3 at 2 p.m. – Associations Under Fire: Everything You Need to Know to Mitigate Risk from the Current Legislative, Regulatory, and Legal Threats

From federal tax reform to DEI to private litigation to federal agency enforcement actions to new state legislation and executive orders, gain invaluable insights into how these threats and potential future changes may affect your association, as well as practical strategies for navigating the evolving landscape and mitigating risk. Learn about the most pressing threats, potential implications for your member associations, what to expect in the months ahead, and, most importantly, what practical steps associations should take now to mitigate their risk. More info/register.

Host: Association Societies Alliance

Speaker: Jeffery S. Tenenbaum, Esq., Managing Partner, Tenenbaum Law Group PLLC

Wed 6/4 at 12 p.m. – Power Dynamics: Mastering Negotiation Skills

Hear about a practical approach and process to negotiate for what you want in work and life. Explore the power dynamics women encounter when advocating for resources, budget allocations, technology initiatives, and career advancement. Learn practical strategies for building confidence and overcoming common barriers to effective negotiation, leveraging technical and situational expertise as a foundation for stronger positioning, developing authentic and ethical negotiation tactics that align with personal values and incorporate cultural context, advocating for technology initiatives with key stakeholders, and creating allies and sponsors who champion your vision. More info/register.

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

Speaker: PSYCHĒ6 founder and leadership coach Donna Gandt

Wed 6/4 at 12 p.m. – Strategic Planning is NOT Strategic Thinking

Explore the critical distinction between planning and thinking strategically, offering insights and tools to help your organization adapt, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly changing world shaped by uncertainty and opportunity. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: AIOT

Speaker: Michael Butera

Wed 6/4 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. – Surviving and Thriving in a Challenging Environment: Strategies for Certification Organizations

Explore how organizations can not only survive but thrive amid funding cuts and broader systemic challenges. Hear how the panel approaches strategic planning, risk mitigation, and long-term sustainability during uncertain times. Gain valuable tools for building resilience, adaptability and flexibility in a volatile environment. More info/register.

Host: Certification Network Group

Speakers:

Dale Cyr, MBA, CAE, Chief Executive Officer, Inteleos
Jasmine T. Agnew, DHPE, MHIIM, RHIA, CPHIMS, CSBI, eFACHDM, FHIMSS, Senior Vice President, Academic Affairs and Professional Credentials, American Health Information Management Association
Tamesha Logan, MBA, CAE, Interim Executive Director, National Athletic Trainers Association

Wed 6/4 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. – DEMO DAYS: AMS Vendor Showcase and Tech Strategy for Small Staff Associations

This two-session virtual event is designed for association executives and teams working in small staff associations. Whether you’re developing a new tech strategy to achieve your goals, exploring a new AMS or refining your technology roadmap, this event is your starting point. Learn how to build a tech strategy that supports growth. See curated AMS demos from trusted vendors. Gain insights from real-world success stories. Discover how to use the free RFI tool to simplify your search. More info/register.

Host: The Association Marketplace by Qiqo

Keynote speaker: Moira Edwards, President of Ellipsis Partners

Participants: Membee, Charityproud, MatrixxMaxx, and YourMembership by Momentive Software

Wed 6/4 at 1 p.m. – Translating Marketing Metrics for Non-Marketers: How to Communicate Impact & ROI Effectively

When your internal audience isn’t fluent in marketing and communications metrics, even the most impressive results can get lost in translation. Learn how to translate marketing metrics into language that resonates across departments. Hear how to tailor your reporting, tell a compelling data-driven story, and build trust with cross-functional teams by connecting marketing and communications performance to business outcomes. More info/register.

Host: American Marketing Association

Speakers:

Antonio Ortolani, Vice President of Global Insights, Meltwater
Aaron Strout, Current Host of Reaching Higher Podcast/ Former CMO of Real Chemistry

Wed 6/4 at 3 p.m. – Future Trends in Marketing

In today’s volatile landscape, association marketers can no longer afford to play it safe. Hear about the trends that will redefine how associations connect with members, drive revenue, and build trust in a polarized world. Whether you’re rethinking your value proposition or planning your next campaign, this session will leave you better equipped to lead with clarity and creativity. More info/register.

Host: KiKi L’Italien, Editor-in-Chief, Association Chat, and VP of Marketing and Community Engagement, Big Red M

Guest: Cam Sanders, Founder and Principal at LeadHERShip Strategies

Thu 6/5 from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. – In-Person Summer Symposium: Innovation and Disruption (Chicago IL)

Sessions: Maximizing Member Value with AI: Strategic Approaches for Associations; Innovation Without the Chaos: Redefining Disruption for Your Association; Culture Eats Innovation for Breakfast; Combating Disengagement and Creating High-Performing Teams; and in-person only panel discussion. See online Summer Symposium blurbs below for session descriptions. 5 CAE credits. Location: Chicago IL. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speakers:

Greg Pollack, VP, Sales Enablement & Engineering Onboarding at Higher Logic
Jake Toohey, Director, Association Practice at Adage Technologies
Jamie Notter, Co-Founder at Propel
Steve Hopkins, Director, Organizational Performance at Wipfli
Michelle Wroblewski (panel discussion moderator) with Amanda Heberg and Hilary Marsh

Thu 6/5 at 11 a.m. – The CEO Buy-In: Selling the Non-Dues Revenue Vision

Learn how to present non-dues revenue initiatives as strategic priorities. Discover techniques for addressing leadership concerns and “what if” scenarios. Explore strategies for aligning revenue ideas with your association’s mission and goals. Gain tools to effectively frame your pitch and secure leadership buy-in. More info/register.

Host: The Event ROI Coach

Speakers:

Bruce Rosenthal, Bruce Rosenthal Associates, LLC
Barbara J. Armentrout, CAE, BJA Solutions for Associations
Vinnu Deshetty, Event ROI Coach

Thu 6/5 at 11 a.m. – Maximizing Member Value with AI: Strategic Approaches for Associations (Summer Symposium: Innovation and Disruption)

Learn how to use AI strategically and deliver standout value to your members, compete with AI searches to remain your members’ go-to resource for valuable industry information, increase the likelihood of your association and resources being found in AI search results, understand the critical role your online community will play in our new AI-influenced landscape, and evaluate essential data privacy considerations and ways to stay agile as new challenges and opportunities arise with AI. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Greg Pollack, VP, Sales Enablement & Engineering Onboarding at Higher Logic

Thu 6/5 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. – Demo Days: AMS Vendor Showcase and Tech Strategy for Small Staff Associations

Whether you’re developing a new tech strategy to achieve your goals, exploring a new AMS or refining your technology roadmap, this event is your starting point. Learn how to build a tech strategy that supports growth. See curated AMS demos from trusted vendors. Gain insights from real-world success stories. Discover how to use the free RFI tool to simplify your search. More info/register.

Host: The Association Marketplace by Qiqo

Keynote speaker: Moira Edwards, President of Ellipsis Partners

Participants: Membee, Charityproud, MatrixxMaxx, and YourMembership by Momentive Software

Thu 6/5 at 12:15 p.m. – Innovation Without the Chaos: Redefining Disruption for Your Association (Summer Symposium: Innovation and Disruption)

Explore how associations of all sizes can define their own version of innovation and disruption—and implement it in a way that’s sustainable and strategic. Hear about a framework that helps IT, marketing, and education teams collaborate around shared goals, make data-informed decisions, and stay future-ready, and examples of successful digital transformation projects from other associations. Learn how to avoid burnout and scope creep during redesigns or re-platforming, responsibly leverage AI to enhance—not replace—member experiences, and assess whether your current systems are holding you back. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Jake Toohey, Director, Association Practice at Adage Technologies

Thu 6/5 at 2 p.m. – Spring Cleaning Your Data

Explore practical strategies for data hygiene that go beyond storage savings — including how to improve data quality, streamline systems, and reduce risk. Join CIOs and data experts as we discuss how to build a culture of clean data, choose the right tools, and turn digital clutter into real business value. More info/register.

Host: 501 Works

Thu 6/5 at 2:15 p.m. – Culture Eats Innovation for Breakfast (Summer Symposium: Innovation and Disruption)

Learn what culture is, how it operates inside your organization, the key culture patterns that prevent us from unlocking new value through innovation, and tips for changing your culture in ways that support more effective experimentation and learning. Hear about strategies to transform culture in ways that foster the behaviors necessary for successful innovation. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Jamie Notter, Co-Founder at Propel

Thu 6/5 at 3:30 p.m. – Combating Disengagement and Creating High-Performing Teams (Summer Symposium: Innovation and Disruption)

Disengagement increases attrition while contributing to poor performance and poor morale, and is often the result of misalignment, or misunderstanding, among leaders, direct reports and teams. Addressing disengagement can radically decrease the chance of losing talented employees and improve overall workplace culture. Learn how to create high-performing individuals and teams by addressing the causes of disengagement and focusing on specific skills for improved performance. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Steve Hopkins, Director, Organizational Performance at Wipfli

Fri 6/6 at 11 a.m. – ASAE Capitol Hill Update: The Latest on Tax Reform

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

Mary Kate Cunningham, CAE, Chief Public Policy and Governance Officer, ASAE
Kyle Hayes, Senior Director of Public Policy, ASAE
Ali Bedford, Vice President, Integer, LLC

Tue 6/10 at 12 p.m. – Digital vs Transformation: A Leadership Discussion

Host: Braintrust Professional Institute

Speakers: Randall Craig and Ronja Francoeur, Braintrust Professional Institute

Tue 6/10 at 1 p.m. – AI in Hiring: Why Human Resources Is Still Human

Host: UST Education.

Speaker: Jaime Hirschfeld, Director of Client Sales and Services at FlexProfessionals LLC

Wed 6/11 at 11 a.m. – 3 Easy Ways Data Can Transform Sponsor Programs

Host: The Event ROI Coach

Speakers:

Bruce Rosenthal, Bruce Rosenthal Associates, LLC
Barbara J. Armentrout, CAE, BJA Solutions for Associations
Vinnu Deshetty, Event ROI Coach

Wed 6/11 at 11 a.m. – What’s Working Now: 5 Proven Campaigns to Drive Member Engagement

Host: UST Education.

Speaker: Ryan Graham, Chief Revenue Officer, PropFuel

Wed 6/11 at 12 p.m. – Small Steps, BIG Results: Improving Your Website Without a Major Redesign

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

Speakers: Dan Scheeler, CAE, Chief Operating Officer; Laura Graham, Sr. Solutions Consultant; and Steven Russell, Solutions Consultant, Results Direct

Wed 6/11 at 1 p.m. – How Are Executive Orders Impacting Associations? A Real-Time Check-in With Association Leaders

Host: UST Education.

Speakers:

Joanna M. Pineda, CEO & Chief Troublemaker, Matrix Group International
Matthew Hughes, President and CEO at World Affairs Councils of America
Linda Akutagawa, President & CEO at Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics
Tip Tucker Kendall, Executive Director, National Grants Management Association

Wed 6/11 at 2 p.m. – From Emails to Innovation: Maximizing AI’s Potential in Associations (AI Innovation Labs with Beth Z, Your Nerdy Best Friend)

Host: re:Members

Speaker: Beth Ziesenis: Author. Speaker. Nerd.

Thu 6/12 at 11 a.m. – Event Marketing Mastery: Turning Conferences Into Revenue Generators

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Sam Bush, Partner Marketing Manager at Netstock

Thu 6/12 at 11 a.m. – 2025 Learning Insights to Power Your Growth

Host: Momentive

Speaker: Jesse Shorts, Learning Programs Expert at Momentive Software

Thu 6/12 at 1 p.m. – Broadcast to Breakthrough: Turning Webinars Into Engagement Powerhouses

Host: UST Education.

Speakers:

Kate Coffey-Bacon, VP of Marketing and Events, US Transactions Corporation/UST Education
Amiee Keenan, Founder at The ISV Society
Amanda Sherry, VP Marketing at Western Computer

Creative Commons licensed photo by Susan Gold via Unsplash

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Association Brain Food: 5.23.25

The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community…

“I’m not young enough to know everything.” ―J.M. Barrie

Learning challenge week. TopClass LMS encourages associations to host a learning challenge week. The purpose of this short-term campaign, requiring a minimal daily time commitment from participants, is to raise awareness and knowledge about an industry issue or in-demand skill. The post describes the benefits for associations, essential campaign elements, and examples for inspiration.

Member recruitment. Tony Rossell at MGI explains why some member-get-a-member recruitment programs don’t produce the expected results. He says the magic ingredient for driving membership growth is social proof, not sales spiels and recruitment talking points.

Event strategy. ExpoLogic walks you through the essential elements of an event strategy, including the event’s purpose, goals, planning process, marketing, metrics, and ROI.

Learner segmentation. Members and customers have a consumer’s expectation for personalized experiences, yet many associations aren’t even segmenting their audience. Jeff Cobb and Celisa Steele at Leading Learning (Tagoras) describe why and how to segment based on behavior, preferences, and patterns, what that looks like in practice, and how it leads to more engagement, better learning outcomes, and increased revenue.

Content strategy. Lead Marvels explains why embracing a media mindset and positioning your association as the trusted center of your industry’s information ecosystem is essential for your association’s growth and sustainability.

Repurposing event content. Snapsight explains how to use AI tools to turn session content into resources that generate revenue and engagement. It’s an intriguing list: premium on-demand library, microcredentials, sponsored content collections, exhibitor intelligence reports, data-enriched industry reports, speaker spotlight packages, session remix products, and interactive learning communities, along with a 30-day action plan.

Association magazines. You might think print magazines are a relic of the past, but Jamie Green of ContentOvation intends to change your mind with his post about the benefits of print magazines for associations. Before you decide to go all in on digital, give his argument some consideration.

Snacks

Why your association still needs a consultant partner, even when your AMS provider handles implementation. | Achurch Consulting

Twelve books to prepare association professionals for the future. | James Young, Product Community

Innovative association revenue streams to help you diversify income and generate the revenue your association needs for mission-critical initiatives. | Bethany Murphy, Big Red M

How I realized AI was making me stupid—and what I do now | Sam Schechner, Wall Street Journal (gift link)

You never grow old at the table

Sssh, don’t tell my husband, but I have way too many packages of cranberries in our freezers. So even though this dish tastes like the holidays, it’s going to be on regular rotation throughout the summer. But that’s okay, because boneless chicken thighs with cranberry herb pan sauce is sooo good. I make it with my favorite Nantucket cranberry sauce, but add onion, garlic, chipotle pepper in adobo, and cinnamon to the pot.

A combo plate for dinner last night: swordfish and flounder with a creamy piccata sauce. On the side? Who knows! I’m writing this Thursday morning in the past tense about a meal we’ll eat tonight that you’ll read about tomorrow morning. I feel like I’m playing with the date line.

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

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

*All events are online at Eastern Daylight Time unless otherwise noted.

Tue 5/27 at 11 a.m. – Event Stability in Economic Uncertainty: Building Connection, Confidence, and ROI Through Smart Event Strategy

In times of uncertainty, events have the power to ground and inspire. Explore how technology, community, and strategic collaboration can help you create experiences that matter now more than ever. Learn how to maximize ROI through agile event design and technology, boost registration and retention through smarter engagement, adapt agendas and logistics with confidence, and reduce costs without sacrificing quality. More info/register.

Host: Momentive Software

Speaker: Michelle Schweitz

Tue 5/27 at 12 p.m. – Trends Talk with Sarah Sladek

AI is all the buzz, but we’re on the brink of things that go way beyond ChatGPT, Siri, and Alexa. AI is in the classroom and drastically changing the way today’s students are informed and communicate, which will trickle-up to the workforce in no time. What rising tech trends are employers not even thinking about yet? Learn about the many ways STEM is changing the behavior and expectations of the future workforce and what employers need to be doing now to prepare. More info/register.

Host: Sarah Sladek, XYZ University

Guest: Christopher Williams, founder of STEM U Education Solutions and LYNK-ED Software, and co-founder of AINautics Technologies

Tue 5/27 at 12 p.m. – Strategic Planning in the Midst of Uncertainty

Once again, we’re using words like “unprecedented” for the world around us. Does your strategic plan give you the tools to keep your association relevant and sustainable in an uncertain and evolving environment? Find out how to create an aspirational yet realistic strategic plan and ensure that it is successfully implemented. More info/register.

Host: Zzeem Consulting

Wed 5/28 at 11 a.m. – Unmasking AMS Success: Developing Post-Launch

AMS adoption isn’t a solo act—it’s a team effort. The real work starts after launch, and success only comes when the system is fully adopted. Too often, organizations fall into post-launch traps like shadow systems, disengaged users, or missed upgrades. But it doesn’t have to be that way.Learn how to maintain momentum, empower staff, and build a team of internal champions. Hear collaborative strategies to keep your AMS evolving with your organization—not working against it. No matter how long it’s been since launch, this session will help you get more value from your system and your team. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speakers:

Rebecca Achurch, CEO at Achurch Consulting
Simone Bielsker, Program Director, Information Systems, CAE, PMP at American Staffing Association
Monica Pemberton, Vice President & Chief Information Officer at American Council on Education

Wed 5/28 at 12 p.m. – Uncovering UBI: What Every Nonprofit Leader Needs to Know

Revenue diversification is essential for sustaining a nonprofit’s operations. However, engaging in new income-generating activities or special events can trigger unexpected tax consequences. Get a clear understanding of Unrelated Business Income (UBI). Learn how to identify UBI activities, where they might be reported, and implement strategies to reduce tax liabilities. More info/register.

Host: Your Part-Time Controller

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 1 p.m. – Preparing For, and Landing, Your First C-Suite or CEO Job

Hear how to prepare for and land your dream job in the association and nonprofit industry. Learn how to assess your capabilities objectively; what association and nonprofit boards seek when searching for C-Suite candidates, especially CEO candidates; how to create a personal development plan to help you land your next C-Suite role; where and how to search for C-Suite opportunities; the role of the recruiter in executive searches; ways to prepare for your interviews with recruiters and boards; how working for an AMC could prepare you for your next C-Suite role; common misconceptions about landing your first CEO job; and rreparing for your first Board meeting after landing that CEO job. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speakers:

Joanna M. Pineda, CEO & Chief Troublemaker, Matrix Group International
Julian Ha, Global Head – Legal, Risk, Compliance & Government Affairs Practice at Heidrick & Struggles
Tina Sung,President and CEO at Synergy Works

Wed 5/28 at 1 p.m. – Wellness in Every Way

Meetings and events industry professionals often struggle to prioritize wellness, as their demanding schedules and stressful responsibilities tend to come before their personal well-being. Learn about the areas of wellness, from physical and nutritional to social and financial, and the roles they play in your overall well-being. Understand the importance of prioritizing your well-being. Discover tips and tricks to implement in your day-to-day life that can help you put yourself first despite your busy schedule. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.

Host: Meetings Today

Speaker: Mark Mohammadpour, founder and CEO of Chasing the Sun

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

Wed 5/28 at 2 p.m. – FBO May Meet Up: The Age of Intelligence: How AI Is Redefining Everything

This month’s topic is all about artificial intelligence. Questions to get your thoughts brewing: How can we ensure that AI supports our mission rather than distracts from it? Where can AI reduce staff burden—member services, content curation, data analysis? What ethical guidelines should we adopt for using AI in our organization? How do we protect member data when using AI-driven platforms? Should we have an internal policy or position statement on responsible AI use? More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE Finance and Business Operations Professionals Advisory Council (including HR)

Thu 5/29 at 11 a.m. – How to Make Attendees Fall in Love with Your Event

Explore what it takes to turn your event into something attendees don’t want to miss, again and again. It’s not about bigger venues, celebrity speakers or fancier swag. It’s about delivering a 10x experience for your attendees at every stage of their journey. More info/register.

Host: Grip

Speakers:

Mark Jones, Founder and CEO, Giant iTab
Abi Cannons, Senior Strategic Account Manager, Grip

Thu 5/29 at 11 a.m. – Investing in Well-being: The Strategic Advantage of Mental Health Support in the Workplace

Learn about the often-hidden costs associated with neglecting mental health in the workplace. Discover how a mentally healthy workforce can fuel innovation, enhance collaboration, improve customer satisfaction, and ultimately contribute to a stronger bottom line. Learn how to cultivate a workplace where mental health is not just supported but actively fostered. Hear about real-world examples of successful mental health initiatives and a framework for understanding how to implement effective programs relevant to your organization. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speaker: Larry Long Jr., Founder and CEO (Chief Energy Officer) of LLJR Enterprises

Thu 5/29 at 2 p.m. – Before You Go: An Insider’s Guide to AMSFest

Shopping for a new AMS solution can be a difficult process. AMSFest is a great event to incorporate into your search since it features a wide array of solution vendors and association consultants packed into two full days. Get the inside scoop on getting the most out of the AMSFest experience, including: what to expect; knowing why you’re attending and what information you should have at the ready; your pillars for success; what makes you weird (in a good way!); whom to bring; getting the most out of the demos; staying organized – the “demo tracker”; meeting some consultants; making association friends – we are stronger together; gaining insights from the AMS/CRM System Selection Surveys; importance of change management; managing your project for success; and preparing for data migration. More info/register (open to all).

Host: 501 Works

Speakers:

James Marquis from 501Works & TheCIOHour
Melissa Mack from Intuitive Business Concepts
Joe Plasterer from Cirrus Change Readiness
Sean Miriashtiani from ACGI Software
Thomas McClintock from Empowered Margins
Olivia Wilkins from PerByte

Tue 6/3 at 10:30 a.m. – LD-2 Lobbying Expenses

Understand the full scope of what must be reported. More info/register.

Host: Gary Gallant, Managing Partner, Gallant Law Group

Tue 6/3 at 12 p.m. – Bridging the Data Literacy Gap (Data Analytics Network)

Data literacy is not just about having access to data; it’s about empowering individuals at all levels of an organization to work with data confidently and competently. Learn about the “last mile” in data literacy, where subject matter experts need to transform raw data into actionable insights that drive decision-making and organizational success. Hear about the current state of data literacy within the panelists’ associations; strategies they employ to overcome the challenges they face; and solutions for enhancing data literacy, including programs, tools, and techniques that can be implemented to build a data-literate workforce. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: Data Analytics Network

Speakers:

Justin Scott, PhD, CAE, Vice President, Innovation & Analytics, Metals Service Center Institute (Moderator)
Reeda Kindred, Data Governance & Analytics Director, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (Panelist)
Tori Miller Liu, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CIP, President & CEO, AIIM International (Panelist)
Wes Trochlil, Owner, Effective Database Management (Panelist)

Wed 6/4 at 12 p.m. – Power Dynamics: Mastering Negotiation Skills

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

Speaker: PSYCHĒ6 founder and leadership coach Donna Gandt

Wed 6/4 at 12 p.m. – Strategic Planning is NOT Strategic Thinking

Host: AIOT

Speaker: Michael Butera

Wed 6/4 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. – DEMO DAYS: AMS Vendor Showcase and Tech Strategy for Small Staff Associations

Host: Association Marketplace/QiqoChat

Keynote: Moira Edwards, President of Ellipsis Partners

Wed 6/4 at 3 p.m. – Future Trends in Marketing

Host: KiKi L’Italien, Editor-in-Chief, Association Chat, and VP of Marketing and Community Engagement, Big Red M

Guest: Cam Sanders, Founder and Principal at LeadHERShip Strategies

Thu 6/5 from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. – In-Person Summer Symposium: Innovation and Disruption (Chicago IL)

Host: UST Education

Speakers:

Greg Pollack, VP, Sales Enablement & Engineering Onboarding at Higher Logic
Jake Toohey, Director, Association Practice at Adage Technologies
Jamie Notter, Co-Founder at Propel
Steve Hopkins, Director, Organizational Performance at Wipfli
Michelle Wroblewski (panel discussion moderator) with Amanda Heberg and Hilary Marsh

Thu 6/5 at 11 a.m. – The CEO Buy-In: Selling the Non-Dues Revenue Vision

Host: The Event ROI Coach

Speakers:

Bruce Rosenthal, Bruce Rosenthal Associates, LLC
Barbara J. Armentrout, CAE, BJA Solutions for Associations
Vinnu Deshetty, Event ROI Coach

Thu 6/5 at 11 a.m. – Maximizing Member Value with AI: Strategic Approaches for Associations (Summer Symposium: Innovation and Disruption)

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Greg Pollack, VP, Sales Enablement & Engineering Onboarding at Higher Logic

Thu 6/5 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. – DEMO DAYS: AMS Vendor Showcase and Tech Strategy for Small Staff Associations

Host: Association Marketplace/QiqoChat

Thu 6/5 at 12:15 p.m. – Innovation Without the Chaos: Redefining Disruption for Your Association (Summer Symposium: Innovation and Disruption)

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Jake Toohey, Director, Association Practice at Adage Technologies

Thu 6/5 at 2 p.m. – Spring Cleaning Your Data

Host: 501 Works

Thu 6/5 at 2:15 p.m. – Culture Eats Innovation for Breakfast (Summer Symposium: Innovation and Disruption)

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Jamie Notter, Co-Founder at Propel

Thu 6/5 at 3:30 p.m. – Combating Disengagement and Creating High-Performing Teams (Summer Symposium: Innovation and Disruption)

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Steve Hopkins, Director, Organizational Performance at Wipfli

Amazon, AssociationBrainFood.com, and Association Academy links allow me to earn a royalty and/or complimentary registration from any resulting leads or sales. Thank you!

Association Brain Food: 5.9.25

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.

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Mon 5/12 at 8 a.m.* – Association Partnerships Fuel Growth! (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)

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)

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)

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

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

More info/register.

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

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

Creative Commons licensed photo by Jessica Kirkpatrick via Unsplash

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Snacks

You never grow old at the table

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

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You never grow old at the table

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Share this:

Snacks

You never grow old at the table

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Share this:

Snacks

You never grow old at the table

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Share this:

Snacks

You never grow old at the table

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Share this:

Snacks

You never grow old at the table

To subscribe to Association Brain Food, please complete the form in the sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Share this: