UST Education

How to Build a Podcast to Foster Trust and Engagement Within a Professional Community - Part 1: The Foundation of a Great Podcast
2026-02-03 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/97792500362
Course Description:
Starting a podcast can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In this session, you’ll learn how to lay a strong foundation—from identifying your audience and defining your niche to choosing the right tools and setting up your content structure. Whether you’re just getting started or still in the idea phase, this webinar will help you approach podcasting with clarity and confidence.

Learning Objectives:
Define a target audience and niche for a podcast.
Select the basic equipment and tools necessary to begin recording.
Develop a content format and structure that supports long-term planning.
Identify common pitfalls to avoid when launching a new podcast.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Turning Chaos Into Opportunity: Staffing Strategies for Associations in a Shifting Labor Market
2026-02-03 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/94851267726
Course Description:
The labor market is changing rapidly—layoffs, government shutdowns, and AI-driven hiring are creating both challenges and opportunities for associations. In this webinar, you’ll learn how to turn staffing chaos into a strategic advantage. Discover how to streamline resume review, leverage technology effectively, and bring in flexible talent exactly when and where you need it. Walk away with practical strategies to keep your organization nimble, make smarter hiring decisions, and thrive in today’s evolving workforce.

Learning Objectives:
Apply strategies to efficiently manage large volumes of resumes and leverage technology without losing the human touch.
Evaluate when and how to use part-time, project-based, or contract talent to fill critical roles.
Develop actionable approaches to navigate workforce volatility and make strategic staffing decisions that support organizational growth.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Association Lessons from... 50 Seasons of Survivor!
2026-02-04 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/94687274381
Course Description:
Aside from the lying, manipulation, and blindsides, there are tremendous lessons about membership, marketing, and communications to be gleaned from the popular Survivor TV series. The reality show that began in 2000 is still attracting a large audience 26 years and 50 seasons later. Join us for a fun and high energy session that will provide a fast-paced look at iconic moments, revered and reviled characters, and unique features from Survivor. For longtime fans and the uninitiated as well, we’ll explore what lessons this quarter-century television phenomenon can hold for your association and its leadership, member engagement, and a connected community. No bugs, snakes, or mud will be allowed in the webinar so grab your Buffs and attend this session to learn how to survive your next tribal council!

Learning Objectives:
Understand the dynamics of and be able to create iconic moments and compelling competitions that will keep members coming back for more.

Understand how to spotlight relatable members of communities as heroes who have overcome obstacles.

Develop a common language for association members to understand, embrace, and use as a key component of shared member experiences.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Be AI-Gile: Reimagining Association Education for the Future of Work
2026-02-05 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/91696573985
Course Description:
Association education has never carried more weight—or more complexity. Workforce Pell, short-form credentials, rapid tech shifts, and new higher-ed partnerships are reshaping what members expect from learning, while AI and automation are moving us from “one-and-done” courses toward continuous, real-time capability building. In this session, we’ll use the Be AI-gile framework—Observe the Chaos, Start Light / Move Fast, Act with Intention, Reflect & Reframe—to re-think what association education can (and should) be in the next decade, focusing less on a long list of AI applications and more on strategy and structure: how to use emerging tools and partnerships to create learning that sticks, supports the future of work, and positions your association as a true talent-development engine.

Learning Objectives:
Identify at least three major trends (technology, policy, workforce, and/or higher education) that are reshaping association education and credentialing.
Apply the four-step Be AI-gile framework to analyze an existing education offering and reframe it as a more agile, real-time learning experience.
Differentiate between “event-based” education and “capability-building” ecosystems, and outline how their association can shift toward the latter.
Evaluate potential strategies to leverage Workforce Pell, higher-ed partnerships, and employer collaborations to extend the reach and impact of their learning portfolio.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Citizen AI Builder: Creating and Launching Your First Copilot Studio Agent
2026-02-05 13:00 - 14:00 | https://usteducation.org/event/citizen-ai-builder-creating-and-launching-your-first-copilot-studio-agent-free-cpe-credit-free-cae-credit/
Course Description:
Discover how to become a Citizen AI Developer by leveraging Copilot Studio without complex coding. This presentation focuses on the core features of the platform, including generative AI authoring and connecting to organizational knowledge. We will walk through the entire lifecycle of an agent, from initial design and testing to the key configuration steps required to successfully deploy the agent as an accessible application within a Microsoft Teams channel or group chat. Attendees will leave with a clear roadmap for creating and distributing their own customized internal agents.

Learning Objectives:
Design the Conversation: Learn to define and structure the agent’s core purpose and conversational Topics using the low-code interface.
Integrate Organizational Knowledge: Understand how to connect the agent to your enterprise data sources to enable accurate, grounded responses.
Test and Validate: Master the built-in testing tools to ensure the agent’s logic and responses meet business needs before deployment.
Publish to Teams: Execute the final steps to configure the Teams channel and deploy the agent for immediate use by a specific Teams group.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Ethical AI in Action: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence Responsibly
2026-02-10 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/99994150104
Course Description:
In this session, we will dive into how artificial intelligence (AI) presents both powerful opportunities and significant ethical challenges when deployed in the real world. Drawing from the insights in the Fíonta article, we’ll explore how AI isn’t just a futuristic “take-over” scenario, but rather a tool whose impact is shaped by the humans who build, deploy, and govern it. We’ll examine three core ethical fault-lines — bias encoded in data, decisions made by “black-box” models without explainability, and the dark side of large-scale data analytics infringing on personal privacy. Then, we’ll shift into the positive side: how organizations can harness AI for good by embedding human judgement, designing for transparency, testing carefully, and aligning AI systems with values and mission. Participants will leave with concrete take-aways to assess their own AI initiatives and steer them towards responsible, human-centred use.

Learning Objectives:
Recognize the key ethical risks posed by AI systems — including bias, lack of transparency/explainability, and invasions of privacy.
Assess whether an AI deployment is aligned with human-centred values and organizational goals, and identify early warning signs when it is not.
Apply a practical framework for testing, evaluating, and monitoring AI systems for fairness, accountability and transparency.
Develop strategies for integrating human oversight and judgement into AI workflows — making sure that “smart computers” and “smart people” act in tandem.
Explore opportunities where AI can be used ethically and responsibly to advance mission-driven outcomes, rather than inadvertently causing harm.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

How to Build a Podcast to Foster Trust and Engagement Within a Professional Community - Part 2: Crafting Content that Builds Trust
2026-02-11 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/99894706412
Course Description:
What separates a good podcast from a great one? Trust. In this session, you’ll discover how to craft content that connects with your audience and builds credibility within your professional community. From storytelling techniques to interview strategies, we’ll explore how to deliver value while staying authentic and engaging.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:
Apply storytelling principles to enhance podcast content.
Plan and prepare meaningful episodes that align with their mission.
Select and interview guests who bring value and diverse perspectives.
Build credibility and emotional connection with listeners.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

From Training to Certification: Designing Seamless Pathways for Lifelong Learning
2026-02-11 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/96600135320
Course Description:
In a crowded marketplace where professional development options are expanding rapidly, how do you ensure your training and certification programs stand out—and stay relevant?

Join us for an interactive one-hour session designed for learning and development leaders, credentialing professionals, and instructional designers. This webinar will dive deep into the latest trends, technologies, and shifting workforce expectations that are reshaping the lifelong learning landscape.

The panel will share insights from the front lines, bust persistent myths, and offer actionable strategies for designing training-to-certification pathways that not only attract new learners across generations—but also drive lasting industry impact and financial sustainability.

Whether you’re refining an existing program or building a new credential from the ground up, this session will equip you with the perspective and tools needed to make smart, strategic moves in today’s evolving market.

Learning Objectives:
Identify key trends and technologies reshaping the professional development and certification landscape.
Debunk common myths about training and certification that may be limiting program growth or innovation.
Differentiate generational preferences and values to more effectively design, market, and deliver programs.
Evaluate strategic approaches to attract new audiences while ensuring the financial sustainability and relevance of offerings.
Align program design with workforce expectations to enhance value, impact, and long-term learner engagement.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

From Batch-And-Blast to 1:1 Messaging: How AI Is Redefining Email Marketing
2026-02-12 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/93979217818
Course Description:
Email marketing is evolving—and your strategy should too. In this webinar, we’ll show you how AI is reshaping the way marketers build, send, and optimize campaigns. No more generic blasts. You’ll learn how to deliver personalized, 1:1 messaging that drives higher opens, clicks, and conversions—without adding manual work.

Learning Objectives:
Analyze how batch-and-blast is hurting your engagement
Evaluate how AI-driven segmentation and personalization models can improve targeting, messaging, and performance outcomes
Apply AI tools and automation techniques to streamline email marketing workflows and optimize campaign execution.
Assess real-world case examples to identify actionable tactics for improving open rates, click-throughs, and conversions.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Navigating the Multi-Generational Workforce
2026-02-12 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/93512301840
Course Description:
This session explores how today’s multigenerational workforce—shaped by rapid innovation, expanding information, and shifting expectations—creates both challenges and opportunities. Participants will learn practical strategies to leverage the strengths of each generation through bi-directional mentorship, improved knowledge transfer, and simple cultural and operational shifts. The webinar provides actionable tools to enhance collaboration, reduce friction, and unlock unrealized value within any team.

Learning Objectives:
Explain the dynamics of today’s multigenerational workforce
Analyze how rapid innovation and information growth shape generational differences
Identify productivity opportunities through knowledge and skill exchange
Evaluate how mentorship—traditional and reverse—drives organizational value
Apply cultural and operational strategies to strengthen generational collaboration
Adopt a broader, more modern view of employee compensation and value

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

How to Build a Podcast to Foster Trust and Engagement Within a Professional Community - Part 3: Growing Your Audience and Engagement
2026-02-17 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/96094088813
Course Description:
You’ve launched your podcast—now what? This session dives into the marketing and engagement strategies that help podcasts grow and thrive. Learn how to promote your episodes, build a loyal audience, and encourage interaction across platforms. Whether you’re looking to expand your reach or deepen your listener relationships, this session has the tools to help.

Learning Objectives:
Implement effective strategies for promoting a podcast across channels.
Create an engagement plan to encourage listener interaction and feedback.
Use collaboration and guest features to grow audience reach.
Develop a content calendar that supports consistency and growth.

Developing Member & Volunteer Roadmaps for Your Association
2026-02-17 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/97268115514
Course Description:
This webinar explores how associations can build effective member and volunteer roadmaps to strengthen engagement, retention, and leadership development. Using research-backed onboarding strategies and real case studies, participants will learn how to create personalized touchpoints, guide members into meaningful involvement, and measure engagement through actionable metrics. Attendees will leave with practical steps to improve new member onboarding and support volunteer growth.

Learning Objectives:
Identify the core components of an effective member onboarding roadmap and explain how structured touchpoints in the first 12–18 months improve engagement and retention.
Analyze data-driven onboarding and renewal case studies to evaluate which member engagement tactics can be applied within your own association.
Design a draft member and volunteer roadmap that outlines clear pathways from new member onboarding to volunteer leadership development.

Why ERP- First eCommerce Outperforms Mainstream Platforms Like Shopify, Magento, and BigCommerce
2026-02-18 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/98116528503
This event is eligible for CPE Credit only~

Course Description:
Mainstream platforms like Shopify were not built for ERP-driven businesses. That is why companies relying on ERP systems often face costly inefficiencies, manual workarounds, and integration issues.
In this session, we will explore why ERP-First eCommerce is not just a better fit, but it is a smarter long-term strategy for manufacturers, distributors, and B2B/B2C companies using Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. You will learn how ERP-integrated solutions streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve the customer experience through a purpose-built approach.
If you are dealing with sync issues, data silos, or disconnected customer portals, this session will help you see a better way forward.

Learning Objectives:
Understand why mainstream platforms fall short for ERP-driven businesses.
Learn how ERP-First eCommerce eliminates manual processes and costly integrations by keeping your ERP as the operational core.
See how manufacturers, distributors, and B2B/B2C companies use ERP-integrated solutions to deliver real-time accuracy across pricing, inventory, and orders.
Discover how a unified ERP-connected platform improves customer experience through self-service portals and automated workflows.
Gain a framework for evaluating whether ERP-First eCommerce is the right long-term digital strategy for your business.

Embracing AI with Confidence: Practical Steps for Nonprofit Leaders
2026-02-19 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/97573607671
Course Description:
This webinar focuses on clear, practical steps to start using MS Copilot in your organization right away. We’ll walk through the differences between Free and Licensed Copilot, simple guidance on costs and security, how to get started, how to pick your trial team, and what kinds of real productivity gains you can expect. We’ll also share sample prompts and concrete use cases drawn directly from day‑to‑day nonprofit work.

Learning Objectives:
Compare the differences between Free and Licensed MS Copilot to determine the best fit for organizational needs.
Apply practical steps to implement MS Copilot, including selecting a trial team and getting started.
Evaluate expected productivity gains and use cases for MS Copilot in nonprofit work.

Webinar Series: How to Build/Develop a Podcast to Foster Trust and Engagement Within a Professional Community - Part 4: Sustaining Success and Evolving With Your Audience
2026-02-24 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/92412045010
Course Description:
Success in podcasting isn’t just about launching—it’s about staying relevant and connected. In this session, we’ll explore how to sustain momentum, evolve your content, and grow your podcast alongside your audience. You’ll learn practical strategies for staying inspired, adapting your show to meet changing needs, and turning your podcast into a long-term community asset.

Learning Objectives:
Apply strategies to maintain content quality and consistency over time.
Use audience feedback to improve and evolve podcast content.
Identify opportunities to extend podcast engagement beyond episodes.
Create a long-term plan that aligns with both personal goals and audience interests.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Survey Says! Vendor Relationships Healthy and Positive
2026-02-24 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/95021865404
Course Description:
But why? Join this session as we dive into the results of the 2024 and 2025 Vendor Engagement Survey. We’ll explore the sentiments and predictions of association executives and event planners—what’s driving strong vendor partnerships, how organizations are maintaining engagement and generating new sales, and what offerings are making the biggest impact.
We’ll take an honest look at where sales are declining. While it’s important to celebrate what’s working, it’s just as valuable to commiserate and learn from what isn’t. This survey is designed to do exactly that—providing clear guideposts on what’s working across the industry and where there’s room to improve.

Learning Objectives:
Analyze what’s working in vendor partnerships today
Evaluate which strategies, offerings, and engagement tactics associations and event planners are using to drive strong relationships and new sales.
Identify emerging trends and areas of decline
Apply insights to current sentiments, predictions, and where vendor sales and engagement are decreasing—so you can adapt before small issues become bigger challenges.
Apply industry insights to improve your own partnerships
Walk away with practical guideposts from the 2024 and 2025 survey data to strengthen engagement, optimize offerings, and make more informed partnership decisions.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Is the Data in the Room With Us? Channeling Association Data Into One Place
2026-02-25 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/94036804588
Course Description:
Association teams collect valuable data across events, membership, marketing, and finance, yet that information often lives in separate systems and departments. When data is fragmented, organizations struggle to demonstrate impact, respond to leadership questions, and make informed decisions.
In Is the Data in the Room with Us? Channeling Association Data into One Place, participants will explore why data silos exist in associations and how bringing data together without replacing existing systems can improve clarity, collaboration, and insight. This practical, non-technical session focuses on aligning people and processes first, helping teams create a shared view of their data and turn disconnected information into actionable analytics.

Learning Objectives:
Identify where data silos commonly exist within associations and understand how they limit reporting, decision-making, and efficiency.
Apply a practical framework for channeling data into one shared view, focusing on alignment and process rather than replacing systems.
Implement strategies to reduce manual work and duplicate effort by improving how data is collected, shared, and used across departments.
Apply connected data to answer leadership questions with confidence, supporting clearer insights around events, engagement, and organizational impact.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Goldilocks and the Three Dynamics Community Events
2026-02-26 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/93668957289
This event is eligible for CPE Credit only~

Course Description:
We are presented with so many opportunities to engage in the Microsoft Dynamics Community; how does one choose where to go and how to maximize the experience? I have been attending and planning events for 20 years and I will share my thoughts on how you can gain the most out of these event opportunities regardless of what position you have: End-User, ISV, Partner, Consultant, Microsoft Employee, etc.

Learning Objectives:
Understand why community events can be too large.
How to take advantage of every opportunity at events: Local, Regional, and Global
Why personal and organization branding helps this effort

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Principled Living: How Ten Nonprofit Director Duties and Rules Make Practical Guidelines for Daily Decision-Making
2026-02-26 13:00 | zoom.us/j/95228729099
Course Description:
Nonprofit directors are routinely guided by rules and principles that offer practical value beyond the boardroom. In this session, viewers will examine ten core nonprofit director duties and governance rules—including the duties of care, loyalty, and obedience, and the business judgment rule—and apply the underlying decision-making frameworks they establish to personal conduct. Through applied examples and brief scenario analysis, viewers will learn how these governance standards can improve personal accountability, judgment, and outcomes.

Learning Objectives:
Learn ten core nonprofit director duties and governance rules.
Apply the ten principles to everyday personal decision-making scenarios using practical, real-world examples.
Assess individual decisions and actions using professional framework to strengthen personal judgment, accountability, and risk awareness.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Strategy: Crafting the Right Strategy Based on Purpose and Core Values
2026-03-03 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/98923052603
Course Description:
Strategy is about strong topline revenue growth.
Can you state your firm’s strategy simply – and is it driving sustainable growth in revenue and gross margin?
Strategies are developed from the Core Purpose, Core Values and Core Competencies and integrated into your Brand Promise and planned around three- and one-year objectives. All stakeholders (governance, leadership, employees, customers, suppliers and community at large) need to be aligned with where you intend to grow and how you plan to get there.

Learning Objectives:
Explain how to anchor strategy in purpose and core values.
Differentiate between a growth story and true strategic growth.
Translate strategy into a clear, memorable statement.
Align stakeholders around the organization’s strategic direction.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Membership & Marketing Symposium
2026-03-05 09:30 - 15:00 | zoom.us/j/92963828596
Virtual Only Event
Membership & Marketing Symposium
Date: Thursday, March 5th, 2026
Time: 9:30 – 3:00 PM
This Symposium is a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders and subject-matter experts who will guide us through the intricate and fascinating world of personal and professional development. Whether you are a seasoned professional, an emerging leader, or simply someone eager to enhance your understanding of these vital topics, this event is designed for you.
Agenda: Each session is 1 CPE/CAE Credit

Keynote Speaker: (9:30 – 9:50)
Erica Salm Rench, CMO, Sidecar

Session 1: (10:00-11:00 PM ET) Digital Marketing Analytics Starter Pack: Measuring What Matters for Membership Growth
Course Description:
Associations must go beyond vanity metrics to understand how digital marketing efforts truly impact membership goals. This session introduces a practical “starter pack” of analytics tools and strategies—spanning email, social media, web, and paid ads—that help organizations measure what matters.
Using real-world examples and actionable insights, attendees will learn how to align digital tactics with strategic membership outcomes, such as acquisition, retention, and engagement. We’ll explore how to use UTM codes and GA4 to track campaign performance, build meaningful reports, and answer leadership’s most pressing questions: Is our marketing working? Are we reaching the right people? Are we driving member value?
Whether you’re just starting out or refining your analytics approach, this session will help you build a data-informed strategy that strengthens member relationships and demonstrates impact.
Learning Objectives:

– Identify key digital marketing metrics across email, social media, web, and paid ads that signal progress toward membership goals.
– Apply UTM codes and GA4 reporting to track campaign effectiveness and user engagement across channels.
– Translate analytics into strategic insights that answer leadership questions and guide membership-focused decision-making.
– Benchmark performance using internal and external data to refine content and outreach strategies.
– Build a starter analytics toolkit that supports ongoing evaluation, optimization, and storytelling around member impact.

Speaker: Julie McDowell, Director, Strategic Communications & Digital Content at College of American Pathologists
CAE: Marketing & Communications
NASBA: Communications & Marketing

Session 2: (11:15-12:15 PM ET) Using AI to Power Smarter Membership and Marketing Strategies
Course Description:
AI is already reshaping how associations do the work they’ve always cared about: connecting people and industries, telling stories, and driving meaningful engagement. And it’s helping them do it in record time! While that speed opens up real opportunity, it also forces new strategic choices.
In this session, we’ll cover both the AI tools associations should be paying attention to and how to use them in day-to-day membership and marketing work AND how your overall strategy needs to change because of them. For example: How do you take advantage of working at scale while still maintaining your authenticity, credibility, and trust? How does your content strategy need to shift so your organization shows up as a source when AI is answering questions for your members? When does AI help create better, more responsive experiences, and when is a human touch still essential? You’ll leave understanding not just how to use AI, but how to rethink your membership and marketing strategies in response to it.
Learning Objectives:

– Understand how AI is changing membership and marketing strategy, not just speeding up the work
– Identify which AI tools are worth paying attention to and how associations are using them
– Identify where strategy needs to shift in response to AI

Speaker: Joanna Pineda, CEO & Chief Troublemaker at Matrix Group International
CAE: Marketing & Communications
NASBA: Communications & Marketing

Session 3: (12:45-1:45 PM ET) Members Aren’t Responding—Now What?
Course Description:
When your best marketing efforts fall flat, what’s really going on? This session helps you dig beneath the surface to discover why members tune out—and how to turn it around. Through interactive exercises, case studies, and honest conversation, learn how to spot whether the issue is segmentation, messaging, or product fit. Work with peers to rethink your approach, uncover fresh strategies for connecting with your audience, and leave with clear steps to boost member engagement and deliver genuine value for your association.
Learning Objectives:

– Diagnose the real reasons behind poor member engagement using segmentation, messaging, and product-fit frameworks.​
– Evaluate member data and campaign performance to identify what’s working—and what’s not—in your marketing strategy.​
– Differentiate between symptoms of marketing problems (like low open rates) and underlying product or value gaps within the association.​
– Redesign core marketing messages to align with meaningful member needs and motivations, avoiding one-size-fits-all communication.​
– Collaborate with peers to create actionable solutions and engagement strategies that can be applied immediately within your organization.​
– Implement a feedback and measurement loop to continuously improve marketing, segmentation, and product relevance over time.

Speaker: Laura Sparks, Director of Marketing and Communications at American Society of Appraisers
CAE: Marketing & Communications
NASBA: Communications & Marketing

Session 4: (2:00-3:00 PM ET) From Reactive to Strategic: Building a High-Impact Marketing Function in Today’s Associations
Course Description:
Association marketing teams are under extraordinary pressure—expected to drive membership growth, improve retention, support programs, and prove ROI, all while navigating shifting member expectations and limited resources. Too often, teams are stuck in reactive mode: juggling last-minute requests, unclear priorities, and a lack of measurable goals.
This session reframes marketing as a strategic, results-driving function—one that partners with leadership, makes data-informed decisions, and works from a clear quarterly plan. Grounded in real-world association examples, this interactive session will help attendees diagnose common dysfunctions, reset expectations with leadership, and build the operational foundation required for sustainable growth. Participants will leave with practical frameworks they can immediately use with their teams and executives.
Learning Objectives:

– Identify and assess common failure points in association marketing teams, including misaligned priorities, lack of strategic clarity, and unclear performance expectations.
– Apply a practical quarterly planning framework that helps teams stay focused, measure what matters, and communicate results to leadership more effectively.
– Implement strategies to shift the internal perception of marketing—from order-taking to strategic partner—through better goals, reporting, and cross-team collaboration.

Speaker: Brianne Wheeler, CEO/Owner at Levitate Marketing
CAE: Marketing & Communications
NASBA: Communications & Marketing

Strategy: A Year-Round Process
2026-03-10 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/94799623326
Course Description:
Yes, our organizations should have a framework they use to unify purpose and align resource investments to mission. Yes, when strategy is just an exercise in creating an artifact that is refreshed every 3-5 years, is an organization truly strategic? This session will touch on how the strategic framework is a nexus to year-round strategy and then review a half dozen approaches that associations use to ensure they are building the strategic capacity and fluency of staff and leadership every day.

Learning Objectives:
Review how a strategic framework can, when properly structured, serve as an organizational nexus and north star
Examine approaches to incorporating strategic practices into regular organizational function
Evaluate the volunteer and staff frameworks needed to elevate the strategy potential of an organization

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

More Than “Meh”: How Web Governance Turns Website Management Into a Strategic Win
2026-03-11 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/99266671946
Course Description:
Restaurants have Executive Chefs. Ships have Captains. Newspapers have Managing Editors.
So, who guides your web presence? Do you have a strategic leader setting the vision and keeping things on track? Or is web content done ad-hoc with a “just in time” mentality?
Join us as we explore how to transform your website into a strategic asset, rather than a catch-all repository, and how the shift from reactive management to a strategic web management delivers measurable value for members and stakeholders.
Walk away with actionable tools, including a RACI Matrix, practical governance frameworks, and standards and policies that achieve buy-in from your team so everyone is heading in the same direction. So you can implement a web governance framework empowers leadership, aligns competing priorities, advances your mission, and increases member engagement.

Learning Objectives:
Develop a strategic plan to manage your association’s website, ensuring it delivers member value and maximizes the organization’s investment.
Implement web governance principles to establish a framework that supports your website’s long-term success and aligns with your association’s strategic goals.
Design and execute a sustainable approach to content creation and website operations that fosters team confidence, reduces stress, and keeps staff focused on delivering value.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

From Content to Intelligence: How Associations Can Turn Member Voices into Actionable Insight
2026-03-12 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/98778551667
Course Description:
Associations are rich with member stories — from conferences, advocacy efforts, volunteer leadership, and professional practice — but most of that insight never makes it beyond isolated videos or anecdotal feedback. In this session, we’ll explore how associations can systematically capture member voices and use AI to transform those stories into usable intelligence. Learn how to scale story collection without adding staff burden, extract themes and insights efficiently, and turn authentic member voices into strategic assets that inform marketing, education, advocacy, and leadership decision-making.

Learning Objectives:
Identify scalable methods for capturing authentic member stories across events, programs, and advocacy initiatives without overloading staff.

Understand how AI tools can extract themes, insights, and usable data from large volumes of video content to support strategy and reporting.

Develop a framework for activating member-generated content across marketing, education, advocacy, and governance to increase engagement and organizational impact.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

A Check-in on the Current Political Landscape’s Impact on Associations
2026-03-17 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/97494492284
Course Description:
We are now well into the current political landscape, where executive orders and legislation continue to drastically affect the landscape that associations operate in. While some early concerns have been erased, others have turned into real operational shifts. In this second, off-the-record check-in, Matrix Group CEO Joanna Pineda will facilitate a candid discussion with association executives across industries. Panelists will share what they are seeing as executive orders and legislation impact funding, membership, events, and even the WHY of organizations.
They’ll discuss:
The ongoing impact of executive orders
The impact of funding legislation on their operations and the agencies they work with
The impact of recent policy shifts on membership and event registrations
The broader impact on specific industries and professions
How members are responding as policies take hold
Where associations are finding clarity, and where they are still navigating gray areas
When they are choosing to engage publicly, and when are they opting for a quieter approach
How they are adjusting their advocacy to achieve wins for their sectors
Short-term adjustments vs. long-term shifts
Come join to hear directly from association leaders AND add your voice! We’ll kick this session off with remarks from the panel and then open up the discussion to the audience. This session will NOT be recorded and AI notetakers will not be admitted to allow for an open conversation.

Learning Objectives:
Analyze how association leaders are assessing the impact of the current policy environment
Identify strategies peers are using to respond as policy changes move from announcement to reality.
Apply new perspectives and questions to bring back to your leadership team and Board

Why Cookie Compliance Is No Longer “Just a European Issue”
2026-03-19 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/99138035983
Course Description:
Cookie compliance is often still treated by US organizations as a European concern, but that mindset no longer reflects how digital audiences, privacy expectations, and regulation operate today. This webinar explores why cookie compliance matters for US association websites — particularly those serving multi-state or international audiences — and where many current consent implementations fall down. We’ll share practical examples of common issues, outline modern best practice, and discuss how to improve consent in a way that builds user trust and reduces unnecessary risk, without adding complexity. Designed for digital, marketing, and governance teams, the session helps clarify where your current approach may be exposing you and what’s worth prioritizing next.

Learning Objectives:
Explain why cookie compliance is now a relevant issue for US association websites — not just European ones
Identify common cookie consent mistakes we see across US-based organizations, and why they fall short of current standards
Describe what “good” cookie consent looks like today in terms of user expectations and risk reduction
Apply best practices for cookie consent that meet user expectations and reduce organizational risk

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Accessibility Isn’t Compliance — It’s a Revenue Engine: How Frictionless Digital Experiences Drive ROI, SEO, and Generational Growth
2026-03-25 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/94954872408
Course Description:
Most organizations treat digital accessibility as a compliance requirement. The smart ones treat it as a growth strategy. In this conversation, we explore how frictionless digital experiences increase engagement, improve SEO and generative AI visibility, attract younger members, and extend the lifetime value of Baby Boomers — turning accessibility into measurable ROI.

Learning Objectives:
Reframe digital accessibility as a revenue and growth strategy—not just compliance

Explain the curb cut effect and how inclusive design benefits all users

Identify how reducing digital friction increases engagement, conversions, and ROI

Connect accessibility improvements to stronger SEO and generative AI visibility

Recognize how accessibility attracts younger audiences while extending the lifetime value of Baby Boomers

Outline practical first steps for audits, remediation, and continuous digital improvement

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Cash: It's All About the King
2026-03-26 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/93731201099
Course Description:
Beyond just learning about the three critical financial statements, this session will discuss how the balance sheet, income statement and statement of cash flows are used to manage and resource growth.
Do you have consistent sources of cash, ideally generated internally, to fuel the growth of your business?
Cash decisions are about oxygen, having sufficient – even abundant – cash so that you have options and can make wise decisions.

Learning Objectives:
Apply financial statements as strategic tools to support business growth.
Analyze the true drivers of cash generation.
Develop plans to ensure cash abundance, not just sufficiency.
Implement strategies to improve cash conversion and liquidity.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Operating Reserves as a Key Indicator of Financial Health
2026-03-26 13:00 - 14:00 | zoom.us/j/94212073692
Course Description:
An adequate operating reserve is one of the most critical indicators of a nonprofit organization’s financial health, resilience, and sustainability. This session provides a practical, in-depth guide to understanding, establishing, and managing an effective operating reserve policy. Participants will learn how to determine the appropriate reserve target based on their organization’s unique risk profile and operational needs. We will cover the mechanics of calculating the reserve, best practices for policy documentation, and effective strategies for communicating the purpose and status of the reserve to the board, staff, and external stakeholders. Ultimately, this course will equip leaders with the tools to leverage their operating reserve as a strategic financial asset, ensuring the organization can navigate unforeseen challenges and maintain continuous service delivery.

Learning Objectives:
Define what an operating reserve is.
Explain why an operating reserve is considered a key metric for assessing a nonprofit’s financial strength and long-term sustainability.
Outline the essential components of a formal, board-approved operating reserve policy, including funding, use, and replenishment guidelines.
Describe strategies for clearly communicating the operating reserve policy and its financial status to the board of directors and other internal and external audiences.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Same Values, New Design: Why Association Events Don’t Need to Look the Way They Always Have
2026-03-31 11:00 - 12:00 | zoom.us/j/96663774432
Course Description:
Associations are built on enduring values: advancing knowledge, serving members, fostering community, and creating meaningful impact. Those values haven’t changed, but the way we design events around them can.
In this highly interactive online session, participants will explore how association events can evolve beyond familiar formats without losing their purpose or credibility. Using a live, audience-driven “design wheel” format, the session will surface practical ideas for rethinking agendas, engagement, technology, sponsorship, and human connection, all while staying true to an association’s mission.
Rather than presenting a list of trends, this session invites participants to experience a different way of designing events in real time, demonstrating how small, intentional design choices can lead to more engaging, inclusive, and relevant meetings.

Learning Objectives:
Distinguish between core association values and inherited event formats, identifying where tradition supports the mission and where it may limit engagement.
Apply at least three alternative event design approaches that enhance participation, connection, and relevance without compromising professionalism or purpose.
Evaluate common event design choices (agenda structure, room setup, technology use, sponsorship integration) through a values-first lens.
Build confidence in experimenting with new formats, using small, low-risk design shifts rather than large-scale overhauls.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!
