VSAE ConneXions (Virginia Society of Association Executives)

In this episode, we talk to Michelle Runge, CAE, director of chapter relations with the American Inns of Court and VSAE board member. Michelle shares her journey into the association profession, highlighting her dedication to fostering community and hospitality. We delve into her involvement in VSAE and the significance of being part of this organization, as well as her experience and key insights gained from Association Leadership Virginia. Tune in for valuable perspectives and enriching discussions on association leadership. professional development, and community.

 

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk to Carter Lyons, CAE, director of communications for Associated General Contractors of Virginia. Join us for a conversation about Carter's journey from elementary school teacher to association executive, her passion for life-long learning, diversifying communication channels, involving early career professionals in your organization, and the importance of being involved in VSAE. 

Show notes

An association leader with 12 years of experience, Carter Lyons serves as the Director of Communications for the Associated General Contractors of Virginia (AGCVA). In her role, she is focused on helping AGCVA members connect in a meaningful way with their association and the benefits available to them, as well as bringing awareness to the community about important work that is done by the construction industry. A lifelong learner and lover of education, Carter enjoys the opportunity to help others continue to grow professionally, while continuing to do so herself in order to better support those she serves. She earned the CAE designation in 2016, completed Association Leadership Virginia in 2019, was awarded VSAE’s Association Staff Award of Excellence in 2021, and can’t resist a good book, podcast, or conversation about a list of nerdy things. With all that said, Carter is always happiest when with her family. She and her husband Walt are soaking up every possible moment with their two boys, Tucker and Graham, more than likely on a baseball field, football field, or basketball court but at every opportunity, enjoying a sunrise from the beach.

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we sit down with Kenyon Salo, a top keynote speaker known for his expertise in inspiration, leadership, and adventure. As the opening keynote speaker at the upcoming VSAE Annual Conference (May 4-6 in Roanoke), Kenyon shares how calculated risks and preparation can lead to personal and professional growth. From childhood bike jumps to skydiving with the Denver Broncos, he reflects on the power of storytelling, overcoming fear, and embracing ‘The Bucket List Life.’ Tune in for an energizing conversation about crafting meaningful experiences, sharing impactful stories, and helping others along the way.

This episode is sponsored by the Doubletree Williamsburg Hotel and Conference Center.

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk with Anne Bonney, a courage ignitor, two-time author, and a renowned authority on change management. As the opening keynote speaker at this year's VSAE Annual Conference, May 5-7 in Norfolk, Anne provides insights into the challenges and opportunities we collectively encounter. Tune in for a sneak peek into Bonney's keynote presentation – a deep dive into change management within the association space – as well as glimpses of Virginia life, reflections on her distinctive career journey, and her expertise on navigating the intricacies of uncomfortable situations.

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk to Susan Park, PhD, CAE, executive director of the Coastal & Estuarine Research Federation. Join us for a conversation about her career journey, leadership advice, inspiring the next generation of leaders, the future of DEI in the association space, why we should all focus on our well-being, and how VSAE helped advance her career.

Show notes

Dr. Susan Park (she/her) is the Executive Director of the Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation (CERF), a scientific society dedicated to advancing the understanding and wise stewardship of estuarine and coastal ecosystems worldwide. She oversees all CERF activities, including a biennial conference and the scholarly journal Estuaries and Coasts. She has spent her career supporting organizations that connect science and management of coastal and marine resources. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Park was the Associate Director of Virginia Sea Grant. She also served as a Senior Program Officer with the Ocean Studies Board of The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine; Adjunct Professor at Trinity Washington University; and NOAA Coastal Management Fellow with the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management. Dr. Park received her Ph.D. in Oceanography from the University of Delaware, and her M.A. and B.A. in Biology from the University of Pennsylvania. She lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband and four furbabies.

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk to Lowell Aplebaum, EdD, FASAE, CAE, CPF, CEO of Vista Cova, offering valuable insights into the vital relationships between CEOs and board members. Lowell explores how leadership has evolved in recent years and underscores the importance of creating inclusive and intentional pathways for future leaders. He also addresses the challenges CEOs and boards face, such as misconceptions about power dynamics and the necessity of establishing a governance structure that keeps the organization's mission at the forefront.

 

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

 

Show notes

Lowell Aplebaum, EdD, FASAE, CAE, CPF is the CEO of Vista Cova – a company that partners with organizations on strategic visioning and planning, reviewing & aligning governance structures, training stronger Board members, and providing expert facilitation. As an IAF Certified™ Professional Facilitator, Lowell frequently provides dynamic sessions to organizations - getting volunteers, members, and staff involved through experiential learning approaches.

 

After starting his career in the informal education realm, over the course of more than a decade, Lowell worked inside associations as a COO as well as in the realms of membership, volunteer leadership establishment and growth, and global alliance building. His passion for facilitation led to the founding of Vista Cova where he has worked with hundreds of nonprofit organizations from local to global, from trade to individual member and foundations.

 

In addition to his role as CEO, Lowell is actively involved in various leadership capacities within the ASAE, including serving on the ASAE Research Committee and as a past Chair for the overseeing commission for the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential. He also chaired ASAE’s Task Force on CEO Pathways and previously led as Chair for ASAE’s Component Relations Council. He serves on the Curriculum Committee and as an instructor for the US Chamber of Commerce’s IOM program. Additionally, Lowell has contributed significantly to the field, co-executive editing and contributing as an author for ASAE’s Component Relations Handbook, 2nd edition, and contributing chapters to the latest versions of Professional Practices of Association Management and Membership Essentials. He is committed to building a stronger future for nonprofits and associations, co-founding the CAE Scholarship and serving as a mentor for ASAE’s Diversity Executive Leadership Program.

In this episode, we talk to Corey Clayborne, senior vice president of knowledge & practice, at The American Institute of Architects. Corey shares his deep passion for service and volunteering, highlighting the critical role of building strong relationships and leading by example. He delves into his experiences managing diverse member groups at the national level and offers valuable insights into effective leadership styles and the importance of approachability. Join us for an inspiring conversation that sheds light on the art of leading with empathy and dedication.

 

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk Kristen Reid, CMP, Vice President of Education & Training for the Virginia Bankers Association, and Eric Hash, CEO of the Harrisonburg Rockingham Association of REALTORS - two graduates from this year’s cohort of Association Leadership Virginia. Join us for a conversation about the benefits of ALV, the importance of peer-to-peer mentorship, the overall experience of the program, key takeaways, and advice for those thinking about applying for the next cohort. 

 

Show notes

This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we sit down with Craig Toalson, CAE, CEO of the Home Builders Association of Virginia, to explore the evolving role of associations from advocacy organizations to community hubs. Toalson discusses strategies for engaging students and non-traditional members, highlighting the success of the Virginia Builder Summit, which attracted 770 attendees, including 110 construction trade students. He emphasizes the importance of personalized communication and engagement for member retention and shares insights from his volunteer work, illustrating how advocacy efforts can extend beyond political arenas to make a broader impact.

 

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, we talk to the co-chairs of VSAE’s Early Career Professionals Task Force, Laiya Rollins, membership and workforce initiatives manager at LeadingAge Virginia, and Lucy Firebaugh, communications and membership specialist for the Association of Consulting Foresters. Join us for a conversation about the importance of young and emerging professionals within VSAE and the association community as a whole, as well as networking, mentorship, and leadership development. 

Show notes

Laiya Rollins is the Membership & Workforce Initiatives Manager at LeadingAge Virginia, the association of not-for-profit aging services organizations serving residents and providers across the senior care continuum. She is responsible for the Association's membership & sponsorship recruitment and services function; including website-database management, and coordinates the Association's workforce initiatives. Laiya is a member of the Virginia Society of Association Executives and serves on their Early Career Professionals Group as a co-chair, the Young NonProfit Professional Network serving on their Leadership Team as well as the American Society Association Executives. She attended Old Dominion University, majoring in Business Administration with a focus on Human Resources. Laiya is from Norfolk, Virginia and now resides in the Richmond area with her husband DJ and three young daughters: Elliana, Autumn and Milani.

 

Lucy Firebaugh is the Communications & Membership Specialist for the Association of Consulting Foresters (ACF), a national organization headquartered in Williamsburg, Virginia. She is responsible for the overall communications of ACF including developing social media and website content, newsletters, and other various publications. She also handles all membership related inquiries and assists landowners who reach out seeking a professional ACF consulting forester in their area. Lucy is a member of the Virginia Society of Association Executives and serves on their Membership Committee and Early Career Professionals Group. Lucy grew up in Glen Allen, Virginia just outside of Richmond and now resides in Prince George, Virginia with her fiancée Matthew and beagle companion Tyson. She graduated from Appalachian State University with a B.A. in Communications with a concentration in Advertising.

 

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In our inaugural episode, we talk to Steven Williams, CAE, association veteran and current president of the Virginia Society of Association Executives. Join us for an engaging conversation wrapped around Steven's career journey in the association space, his passions, his leadership advice, and a few interesting nuggets about Virginia life. 

 

Show notes

 

Full transcript here: https://bit.ly/3CPp6f7

 

Steven Williams, CAE has over 20 years of experience in association management. He has served in many capacities including marketing, public relations, member service, and event planning. Steven is also experienced in project management, graphic design, website development, contract negotiation, and publishing and circulation. In 2022, Steven was named president of the Virginia Society of Association Executives—the association for association professionals. He holds the Certified Association Executive designation and attended Bluefield College where he became interested in communications after interviewing Iran-Contra figure Oliver North for the school paper. Steven is a native of Virginia and is married with two children.

 

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings

In this episode, we chat with Melissa Andrews, president and CEO of LeadingAge Virginia, about her unique journey from art history major to a prominent leader in aging services. Melissa reflects on her early career as an assistant curator at the Hebrew Home in Riverdale, NY, and how it shaped her passion for serving older adults. She discusses the evolving landscape of aging services, addressing workforce and regulatory challenges, and highlights efforts to develop future leaders through programs like the Leadership Academy. Melissa also shares insights into her leadership style, rooted in humor and compassion, and emphasizes the importance of embracing change to drive organizational growth.

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

 

Show notes

Melissa Andrews joined the LeadingAge Virginia staff as President & CEO in 2016.  Melissa leads the overall affairs of the association and foundation, working closely with the Boards of Directors to advance the missions and elevate the conversation about aging in the Commonwealth ultimately impacting elders’ lived experience through policy and systems change, direct service expansion, and regulatory reform. 

Melissa also serves as President & CEO of PositiveAge, a LeadingAge Virginia foundation, transforming the aging experience in Virginia by securing funds to build coalitions and develop innovative solutions to promote positive aging. 

Prior to joining the LeadingAge Virginia team, Melissa spent 14 years at LeadingAge (national) developing her expertise in not for profit board governance and strategic planning.

Melissa was a class of 2010 LeadingAge Larry Minnix Leadership Academy fellow, holds the BoardSource© Certificate of Nonprofit Board Education, and in 2013, Melissa received The Coalition for Leadership in Aging Services’ Certified Aging Services Professional national certification.  She is also a Dementia Friends Virginia Master Trainer.

 

In this episode, we talk with Sam Richter, one of the world's foremost sales intelligence and digital reputation experts, award-winning  speaker and bestselling author. As the closing keynote speaker at this year's VSAE Annual Conference, May 5-7 in Norfolk, Sam provides insights into gaining intel secrets to grow your organization. Tune in for a sneak peek into Richter's keynote presentation – discovering tips and tricks for utilizing online information to build meaningful and authentic connections – as well as insights into generative AI and how associations can use it to their advantage.  

In this episode, we talk to Rear Admiral Cari Thomas, CAE, Chief Executive Officer of Coast Guard Mutual Assistance. Join us for an engaging conversation wrapped around Cari's personal journey in the military and how it prepared her for the association space, her passion about volunteerism, her leadership advice, and why family is so important to her. 

 

Show notes

 

Full transcript here: https://bit.ly/3s9pjmA

 

Rear Admiral Cari Thomas is pleased to serve as the Chief Executive Officer, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance.  Since 1924, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) has provided more than $220 million in financial assistance.  

With a career of service to the United States in both public and private capacities, she also served as the Executive Director the Navy League of the United States, on the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Military Services, and on the Board, Navy Mutual Aid Association.  Throughout her life, Mrs. Thomas volunteered for different organizations that help the disadvantaged, veterans, or animals.

Mrs. Thomas served her nation as a career Coast Guardsman for over 32 years as a commissioned officer.  During her career, she commanded units both at sea and ashore.  Rear Admiral Thomas also worked in marketing, financial management, personnel, constituency services and disaster management.  She was named a United States International Maritime Organization (IMO) Ambassador in 2015.

Rear Admiral Thomas has advanced degrees from the Coast Guard Academy, Troy University, and the Naval War College. In 2017, Mrs. Thomas earned a Non-Profit Executive Management Certificate from Georgetown University.  She became a Certified Association Executive (CAE) in 2021. 

Cari Thomas’ personal awards include the Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal, the Department of Defense Exceptional Public Service Medal, the Department of State Superior Honor Award, and various other personal, unit and campaign awards. She has been married for over 36 years and has an adult daughter and son-in-law.  

 

Cari welcomes your email. Feel free to email her at cari.thomas@cgmahq.org.

 

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings

In this episode, we talk to three recipients of this year's VSAE Award of Excellence. Join us for a conversation with Ray Mattes, CAE, president and CEO of the Retail Alliance; Phyllis Errico, CAE, General Counsel to the Virginia Association of Counties; and Jamie Mitchell with the Virginia Beach CVB. Each of these guests have a lot to say about their career journeys, leadership insights, and the sense of community that VSAE brings.

In this episode, we talk to Sarah Sladek, a 20-year industry veteran who has dedicated her career to studying and researching the membership and engagement shift. Join us for a conversation about major differences in the generations that make up associations, why her generational research is so important, competition in the association space, and innovative approaches for increasing member retention and loyalty.

Show notes

For more than 20 years, Sarah Sladek has dedicated her career to studying and researching the membership and engagement shift. She uses this wisdom to help membership professionals, leaders, teams, and organizations change their paths and become successful. Her modern-day membership science and cutting-edge engagement strategies have helped save thousands of membership organizations and associations around the world. For more information on Sarah's research, and how to order her latest book Membershift: Why Members Leave and the Strategies Proven to Bring Them Back, visit sarahsladek.com.

 

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk to Christina Lewellen, MBA, CAE, executive director of the Association of Technology Leaders in Independent Schools. Join us for a conversation about Christina's journey through the association space from content creator to executive director, her passions and challenges, and some inspiring advice for emerging leaders. 

Show notes

Christina is a seasoned association executive who has served industries ranging from window manufacturers to court reporters to proposal writers. She brings a data-driven framework to business planning and strategy, having earned her MBA from the Rochester Institute of Technology and the Certified Association Executive designation from the American Society of Association Executives. She was named the Executive Director of ATLIS in 2019, and serves in a variety of ways as an advocate for independent schools and their leadership teams. She and her family live in Virginia and tweets at @christinaATLIS. 

 

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk to Shannon McCabe, CAE, executive director of the Association of Consulting Foresters and current president of the Virginia Society of Association Executives. Shannon shares her journey into the association profession and her enthusiasm for stepping to the president role for VSAE. She discusses leading as a millennial, engaging younger generations in associations, the unique challenges faced by small staff associations, and the importance of being involved with VSAE and the opportunity to give back and shape the organization's future.

This episode is sponsored by the Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel. 

 

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk to Bruce Whitehurst, president and CEO of the Virginia Bankers Association. Join us for a conversation centered around leadership, including Bruce's leadership journey, his leadership style and its evolution in the last 15 years, influential leaders and mentors that have shaped his career, advice for aspiring leaders, cultivating adaptivity, and his involvement in the VSAE community.

 

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk to Jennifer Watson, CAE, membership manager of the Society of American Foresters. Join us for a conversation about her career journey, changes in association membership, how associations can stay relevant, leveraging collective resources and expertise to support members during times of crisis, and the value of VSAE membership.

Show notes

After 25 years of working in the nonprofit field, Jennifer Watson’s diverse background brings a unique perspective and skill set.  She is passionate about establishing connections between organizations and those who can either support the mission or receive its services.  Jennifer has developed the skill of networking through a variety of positions involving resource cultivation, direct solicitation, strategy development, research, event planning, public speaking, networking, database management, and leveraging social media.  She believes that by connecting target audiences with information through various platforms both in person and online, we are cultivating a more authentic and engaged community.

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk to Jeff De Cagna, FASAE, a respected contrarian thinker on the future of associating and associations. Join us for a conversation about how boards should safeguard their members and successors from technological harm, the importance of ethical decision-making before implementing generative AI, the need for regulation of AI and the role of associations in that policy making, and everyone's role as an AI ethicist.

Show notes

Jeff De Cagna FRSA FASAE, executive advisor for Foresight First LLC in Reston, Virginia, is an association contrarian, foresight practitioner, governing designer, stakeholder/successor advocate, and stewardship catalyst. In his work, Jeff advises association and non-profit boards on how they can set a higher standard of stewardship, governing, and foresight [SGF].    A graduate of the Johns Hopkins and Harvard universities, Jeff has continued his learning with the future at the MIT Sloan School of Management, Oxford University, Harvard Business School, the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business, BoardSource, the Copenhagen Institute for Future Studies, and the Institute for the Future.    Jeff is the 32nd recipient of ASAE’s Academy of Leaders Award, the association’s highest individual honor given to consultants or industry partners in recognition of their support of ASAE and the association community.   Additional reading: We Are All AI Ethicists Now (VSAE Blog) Association Boards and Technological Harm: Part I Association Boards and Technological Harm: Part II

 

To register for the VSAE Nov. 2 session with Jeff, visit here.

This podcast is produced by Association Briefings.

The Virginia Society of Association Executives presents the all-new VSAE ConneXions – an original podcast series focused on the interconnectivity of Virginia’s association community. Join our hosts Colby Horton and Frank Humada as they engage in conversations with VSAE members about life, work, and the communities they serve. 

In this episode, we sit down with Sheryl Chasse, executive director of the Professional Insurance Agents Association of VA & DC, to explore her unique career journey from IT sales and insurance recruitment to association leadership. Sheryl discusses the evolving insurance landscape, the challenges of a hard market, and how COVID reshaped industry education. She also shares her approach to engaging younger members, developing future leaders, and the importance of community service through her work with the Special Olympics.

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we talk to Bailey Kasten, CAE, executive director of the Virginia Recreation and Park Society. Join us for a conversation centered around the challenges and opportunities of managing a small association, leadership qualities, providing opportunities to women and young professionals, mentorship and the importance of being a part of the VSAE community.

 

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.