UST Education

Transforming Your Annual Conference Into Year-Round Engagement & Revenue
2025-04-23 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/98833345677
Course Description:
In this webinar, we’ll show you how to evolve your event into a 365-day content and engagement strategy. Learn how to repurpose conference content into always-on digital programming, leverage multiple media formats (videos, webinars, podcasts, and articles), and create sponsorship inventory that drives non-dues revenue. Whether you’re a CEO focused on long-term impact or an event manager responsible for execution, this session will equip you with practical strategies to amplify your event’s reach and ROI.

Learning Objectives:
Analyze strategies to extend your conference’s influence beyond its in-person attendees, reaching a broader audience.
Develop a year-round content strategy that boosts member engagement and brand exposure.
Evaluate sponsorship models and monetization tactics that turn event content into a sustainable, non-dues revenue stream.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Strategic Reinvention: Building Future-Ready Associations
2025-04-24 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/93055914472
Course Description:
The association landscape is shifting beneath our feet, demanding more than resilience – it demands reinvention. To meet the demands of today and ensure future readiness, association leaders must innovate without compromising their mission-no easy feat. This session tackles the critical gaps between recognizing the need for innovation, maintaining strategic focus, creating alignment across Board and staff, and ensuring successful execution.

Learning Objectives:
Identify opportunities for innovation within the context of your strategy
Assess your Board’s risk appetite and develop strategies to foster alignment and a shared understanding of its willingness to invest in new opportunities.
Foster a culture that champions experimentation by embracing calculated risks and learning from “failures.”
Apply agile methodologies and execution best practices to test, validate and track new ideas efficiently

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Association of the United States Navy: Two-Year Plan to Reinvent Mission, Leading the Way to a Bright Future
2025-04-29 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/95003732714
Course Description:
This session will provide an in-depth look at the Association of the United States Navy’s (AUSN) strategic two-year transformation plan. Participants will explore the organization’s renewed mission, leadership transition, financial restructuring, and membership reinvention strategies. The course will highlight how AUSN is positioning itself for long-term sustainability through targeted investments, new revenue models, and reputation-building efforts. Attendees will gain insights into aligning board and staff priorities with revenue generation while maintaining a strong infrastructure and community presence.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Analyze the key principles guiding AUSN’s two-year transformation plan, including leadership changes, financial priorities, and membership expansion.

Evaluate the impact of fiscal responsibility and targeted investments on the organization’s long-term sustainability.

Design strategies for association leadership to navigate board transitions while maintaining mission alignment and operational effectiveness.

Assess the role of partnerships and infrastructure investments in enhancing organizational effectiveness and external reputation.

Formulate innovative approaches to membership growth by identifying new verticals and revenue opportunities.

Develop an actionable framework for balancing internal improvements with revenue-driven strategies at both the board and staff levels.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

2025 netFORUM Users Group Conference
2025-04-30
Event Information

Wednesday, Apr 30, 2025 at 9:00 AM to Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 4:00 PM EDT
NRECA Conference Center, 4301 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, Virginia, 22203, United States.

The netFORUM Users Group Conference is an exclusive educational event for our members. Chances are, your peers have implemented creative solutions for their business challenges, leveraging their expertise and the member network—no need to reinvent the wheel! Connect with fellow members, vendors, and Momentive Software staff to learn from experts using, configuring, and extending NetForum Enterprise.
Check out the Session List!
Not a member? Learn how your organization can join now by contacting me********@****************up.org or visiting netFORUM Users Group Community Site

1 CPE/CAE Credit will be issued for Rick Ricker and Michaela Johnson’s session on May 1st from 1:00-2:00 PM (ET)
Course Description:
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) governs card security for all merchants. Failure to comply can be extremely costly, both financially and to a company’s reputation. This webinar focuses on the new version of PCI DSS 4.01, which replaced 4.0 on December 31, 2024, and with which all merchants must comply by March 31, 2025. The discussion will include changes to the standard and how it applies to those accepting cards, as well as tips and techniques for reducing the scope of applicability through contracting out card collection and storage.

Learning Objectives:
Identify the 12 principal requirements of PCI DSS 4.01 and explain their significance.
Understand Self Assessment Questionnaires (SAQs).
Analyze methods to reduce the scope of your Cardholder Data Environment (CDE).
Compare encryption and tokenization as data security measures and assess their impact on compliance.
Distinguish between Card Present and Card Not Present environments and examine their unique security considerations.

AI: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
2025-04-30 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/92062747487
Course Description:
Join a motley crew of association and AI experts as we break down the realities of AI —what’s working, what’s risky, and what’s still a wild frontier. AI is reshaping how organizations manage information, engage members, and extract value from their data, but with rapid industry shifts and lingering uncertainty, associations may be unsure of when—or how—to take the leap.
Join us for a showdown of perspectives as three experts step into their roles as The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of AI in associations and business organizations— each bringing a unique take on the opportunities, risks, and uncertainties ahead. Don’t wait on the sidelines—AI is already changing the game. Join us for a practical, candid conversation on what AI means for associations today and in the future.

Learning Objectives:
The Good – Analyze how other associations have implemented AI to increase member engagement and maximize the value of data you already have
The Bad – Identify potential risks around using AI and how to mitigate the impact on your organization
The Ugly – Interpret emerging AI industry trends and navigate the evolving landscape with confidence

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Planning for Executive Succession
2025-05-06 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/92126665002
Course Description:
Executive succession happens with increasing frequency, but relatively few associations and nonprofits plan for potentially disruptive successions. This session is designed to stress the need for, and importance of, conscious planning by staffs and boards for the times when executives will leave their positions. The session will include “war story” examples as well as introduce some of the practices and procedures associations can use to facilitate smoother transitions.

Learning Objectives:
Recognize the importance of conscious planning for executive succession
Identify both the procedural and interpersonal aspects of executive succession
Access and evaluate additional resources to supplement the session content

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Driving Growth With AI: What Association Leaders Need to Know
2025-05-06 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/99632671593
Course Description:
AI is reshaping how associations grow, engage, and operate. But most leaders don’t know where to start.
This webinar is built for association executives ready to lead with AI. You’ll learn how to apply AI in marketing, communication, and operations to reach the right people, with the right message, at the right time.
Walk away with practical ways to boost member engagement, improve retention, and increase efficiency—without sacrificing authenticity or trust.
Whether you’re new to AI or refining your strategy, this session will help you take action fast.

Learning Objectives:
Apply AI to support leadership decisions and drive strategic planning
Develop personalized member communication and improve retention
Implement automation to create content faster and cut manual work
Deliver better messaging across platforms without losing your voice
Analyze marketing ROI and target the right members with precision

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Lights, Camera, Impact: Sharpening Your Video Skills for Success
2025-05-07 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/93133643310
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
In today’s digital-first world, effective video communication is essential. Join us for a dynamic, one-hour workshop designed to enhance your video presentation skills. Whether it’s live meetings on Zoom/Teams or creating asynchronous content for social media or internal communications, this session will empower you to deliver your message with clarity, confidence, and professionalism. Through practical exercises and expert guidance, you’ll learn the art of being articulate and authoritative on camera, ensuring your video content stands out.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Develop Confident On-Camera Presence: Learn techniques to present yourself confidently and professionally in any video setting, from live meetings to recorded content.
Craft Succinct and Impactful Messages: Gain insights into structuring your communication to be clear, concise, and compelling, keeping your audience engaged.
Hands-On Practice and Feedback: Engage in interactive exercises to practice your new skills, receiving real-time feedback to refine your video communication techniques.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Beyond Certifications – Maximizing Impact With Member Recognition Programs: Drive Revenue, Recognition, and Membership Value
2025-05-08 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/98283833738
Course Description:
Recognition programs demonstrate the competency of professionals and companies. Non-profits that serve companies (trade associations) and professions (professional societies) can recognize their members’ work with best practice alignment, certificate, or certification offerings. These programs share common development and Implementation principles, such as stakeholder engagement, where subject matter experts develop recognition requirements validated with Industry and Profession review. Additionally, these programs are transparent, where industry and professional leaders partner with association staff to separate duties from volunteers to ensure program requirements and measures are independent, fair, and equitable.

Learning Objectives:
Explain why certification programs recognize your member’s exemplary work
Analyze how recognition programs demonstrate the competency of professionals and companies
Identify common principles in the development and implementation of recognition programs.
Evaluate case studies of successful certification initiatives and understand their impact

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Unlocking Creativity: 15 Game-Changing Microsoft Copilot Use Cases for Marketers
2025-05-08 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/97706104678
Course Description:
Embark on an exhilarating journey into the power of AI and explore 15 groundbreaking real-life use cases with Microsoft Copilot.
This session is your key to unlocking a new realm of possibilities, from transforming your marketing strategies to revolutionizing content creation, enhancing SEO, and boosting engagement.
Seize this chance to be at the cutting edge of digital marketing innovation. Whether you’re looking to refine your approach or revolutionize your outcomes, this session promises to equip you with the insights and tools you need to turn your vision into reality.

Learning Objectives:
Demonstrate effective prompting in Microsoft Copilot
Apply 15 game-changing marketing prompts

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

How to Win: Be a Category of One (Leadership for SMBs and Entrepreneurs)
2025-05-13 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/96422109955
CPE Eligible
CAE Eligible

Course Description:
Part 1 of a 2-part Leadership & Learning Webinar.
Elevate your organization with insights designed for SMB leaders, executives, managers, and entrepreneurs. This session covers 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.
I. Work on Yourself – Prioritizing self-development enables you to inspire and drive change.

II. Build Organizational Culture – Culture shapes employee interactions and productivity. Learn to align culture with your mission, enhancing engagement and strategic focus.

III. Use Atomic Habits – Small improvements, as outlined in Atomic Habits, create lasting growth and organizational success.

IV. Focus on a Niche – Stand out by targeting a specific market segment, appealing to the emotional triggers of your audience.

V. Create a Compelling Saga – Develop a narrative that aligns your team with your vision, building motivation and unity.
This session offers real-world examples, videos, and interactive discussions. Discover strategies to position your organization as a “category of one” and unlock new leadership potential!

Learning Objectives:
Learn about key leadership principles including:

How to Win by not competing

Prioritizing your own professional development

A framework for building organizational culture

Understand how small daily improvements lead to exponential growth

How to define your niche focus

Why having a compelling saga is critical to effective leadership

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Hidden Secrets: The Real Value of Executive Search
2025-05-15 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/97405780043
Course Description:
Join us for an insightful webinar where we explore the transformative power of executive search in the nonprofit sector. 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. The presenter has benefited from using executive search when he served as a CEO, and now as someone who connects talent to associations. Learn how to streamline your recruitment process, maintain confidentiality during sensitive transitions, and drive long-term success through strategic alignment and cultural fit. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader seeking to elevate your organization’s impact or a professional looking to advance your career in the sector, this session will provide insights for navigating the complex landscape of nonprofit leadership. This session will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about talent acquisition, leadership development, and career growth.

Learning Objectives:
Identify how to access exceptional talent for senior positions in association management.
Evaluate newly-hired senior executives alignment with an organization’s strategic objectives.
Explain how well-conducted executive search leads to long term organizational success.
Apply insights for navigating the complex landscape of nonprofit leadership by equipping association executives with the knowledge to make informed decisions about talent acquisition, leadership development, and career growth.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Write With AI but Sound Like the Human You Are
2025-05-20 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/93199852472
Course Description:
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape… I’m kidding.
Nearly two years into AI-assisted communication, most people misuse it by outsourcing their thinking entirely to bots.
This famous LLM writing intro exemplifies several AI output problems:

No connection
No originality
Unreliable information
Robocop voice with no soul
Jargon & complexity
This webinar will:
Explain why AI writing sounds bad and how to fix it
Show proper AI tool usage throughout the writing process
Help maintain your voice and control
Created by a writer with 25 years of experience in journalism and marketing.
For non-writers, AI skeptics, and even AI enthusiasts.
Valuable for leadership, consultants, marketing, sales, and business development professionals who depend on effective communication.
Let’s combine AI with common sense to sound like the humans we are.

Learning Objectives:
Analyze why AI writing sounds bad and how to fix it
Demonstrate proper AI tool usage throughout the writing process
Apply techniques to maintain your voice and control

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Understanding the Payments Ecosystem in Microsoft Dynamics Business Central
2025-05-20 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/95346436672
Course Description:
With the rise of digital transactions and the increasing complexity of financial operations, understanding the payments ecosystem in Microsoft Dynamics Business Central is crucial for businesses looking to streamline their payment processes. In this teaching session, we will cover how transactions flow through a modern vs mono-line integrated payment solution in your ERP, the leading players in the payments ecosystem, and how to demystify your merchant statement, lower your costs, and minimize your security risks.

Learning Objectives:

Identify the key players in the payments ecosystem and describe their roles, including merchants, gateways, processors, banks, card networks, and customers.
Compare different types of payment integrations (modern vs mono-line) and analyze their impact on transaction flow and merchant scalability.
Interpret merchant statements by calculating transaction fees and assessing cost components.
Evaluate strategies for reducing payment processing costs based on statement analysis.
Analyze common risks in payment processing within Microsoft Dynamics Business Central and apply best practices to minimize risks and ensure compliance.
Design optimized payment workflows in Business Central that support scalability, cost-efficiency, and security.

Cybersecurity in the Age of Hybrid Work and AI: A Practical Approach
2025-05-21 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/92396415454
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
It is not possible for busy association leaders to keep up with all things cybersecurity, especially as the rate of technological change continues to increase exponentially. (Case in point: we delivered a session on this very topic in March 2024 and *much* has changed since!)
Employees and members are more widely dispersed than ever, and artificial intelligence has crept its way into all corners of our lives. This course is designed to get you up-to-date on the threats and strategies that matter most in this landscape.
We’ll work through real-life examples and clear action items to turn a complex and intimidating subject into one you’re ready to tackle head-on.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Describe the current threat landscape given industry trends such as hybrid work
Examine the dual role of artificial intelligence in creating and stifling attacks
Identify the new best practice baseline for defense and response measures
Illustrate how to realistically keep pace with cybersecurity long term

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

From Curiosity to Confidence: A Friendly Step-By-Step Guide to Bringing Microsoft Copilot to Your Association
2025-05-22 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/99858861925
Course Description:
AI doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and you don’t need an IT department to start benefiting from it.

In this gentle, step-by-step webinar designed for nonprofit and association professionals, we’ll walk you through how to thoughtfully adopt Microsoft Copilot—even if you’re not a tech expert. Whether you’re curious about what it can do, worried about where to begin, or unsure how to make it stick, this session is here to meet you where you are.
You’ll leave with a clear, jargon-free roadmap that includes:

What you need to get started (think: licenses, privacy, and simple setup)
How to introduce Copilot to your team without fear or confusion
Tips for starting small with a pilot, then growing at your own pace
Ways to measure success and keep improving without extra burden

Our goal is to make sure you walk away feeling empowered, informed, and inspired—with a practical “cookbook” of steps you can start using right away.
Whether you’re just AI-curious or ready to take the first step, this session will give you the confidence (and comfort) to begin.
Learning Objectives:
Describe the foundational requirements for implementing Microsoft Copilot, including licensing, privacy, and initial setup.
Explain how to introduce Copilot to staff in a way that reduces fear and encourages adoption.
Design a small-scale pilot approach for rolling out Copilot at your own pace.
Evaluate success metrics for Copilot adoption and identify ways to iterate without adding burden.
Apply practical steps to begin using Microsoft Copilot in everyday association tasks.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Unmasking AMS Success: Post-Launch Strategies That Stick
2025-05-28 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/99182018535
Course Description:
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.
Join Rebecca Achurch, CEO of Achurch Consulting, and special guest Simone Bielsker of American Staffing Association, to learn how to maintain momentum, empower staff, and build a team of internal champions. Our expert panel will share 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.

Learning Objectives:
Foster a culture of continuous learning and shared ownership
Develop a team of internal champions
Apply document creation strategies that your team actually uses
Identify and eliminate shadow systems before they take root
Implement tactics to boost user engagement with feature rollouts and upgrades

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Preparing For, and Landing, Your First C-Suite or CEO Job
2025-05-28 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/95067388406
Course Description:
In this webinar, you’ll hear from C-Suite executives and a recruiter in the association space about how to prepare for and land your dream job in the association and nonprofit industry. During this interactive panel, you’ll learn:

How to assess your capabilities objectively
What association and nonprofit boards look for, 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
Preparing for your first Board meeting after landing that CEO job

Learning Objectives:
Identify the key qualifications and competencies that boards and recruiters seek in C-Suite and CEO candidates.

Evaluate their own readiness for executive roles using frameworks for capability assessment and leadership development.

Develop a personal career advancement plan that aligns with leadership aspirations in the association or nonprofit sector.

Describe the executive recruitment process, including the role of search firms and strategies for effective interview preparation.

Discuss transition strategies for new CEOs, including relationship-building with boards and preparing for early leadership milestones.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Summer Symposium Information
2025-06-05 10:00 - 16:45 (America/Chicago)
Innovation and Disruption
Date: June 5th, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM (ET)
**In-person exclusive content 4:45PM-5:45PM (ET)
Location: In-person will be held at:
Adage Technologies
10 S Riverside Plaza STE 1500,
Chicago, IL 60606

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

Session 1: (11:00-12:00 PM ET) Maximizing Member Value with AI: Strategic Approaches for Associations
Course Description:
Technology is evolving at lightning speed, and associations have something truly valuable that general AI models don’t: deep industry knowledge and member expertise. While popular AI tools pull from public data, your association is in a unique position to use AI strategically and deliver standout value to your members. Join association tech and AI expert Greg Pollack, VP, Sales Enablement & Engineering Onboarding at Higher Logic, to learn how to control and build on the foundation of your own content in today’s fast-paced AI-driven world.

Learning Objectives:

Identify strategies to compete with AI searches to remain your members’ go-to resource for valuable industry information.
Apply tips to increase the likelihood of your association and resources being found in AI search results.
Explain the critical role your online community will play in our new AI-influenced landscape.
Evaluate essential data privacy considerations and ways to stay agile as new challenges and opportunities arise with AI.

Speaker: Greg Pollack, VP, Sales Enablement & Engineering Onboarding at Higher Logic
CAE: Member & Stakeholder Engagement
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Session 2: (12:15-1:15 PM ET) Innovation Without the Chaos: Redefining Disruption for Your Association
Course Description:
Disruption means different things to different organizations. For some associations, it’s about adopting new AI-driven tools. For others, it’s breaking free from a clunky CMS or reimagining how education and content are delivered. But real innovation isn’t about chasing shiny objects—it’s about aligning digital efforts with your mission, your members, and your capacity.
In this interactive session, we’ll 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. We’ll share a framework that helps IT, marketing, and education teams collaborate around shared goals, make data-informed decisions, and stay future-ready.

Learning Objectives:

Define what “disruption” means for your organization.
Analyze examples of successful digital transformation projects from other associations.
Apply tips to avoid burnout and scope creep during redesigns or re-platforming.
Identify ways to responsibly leverage AI to enhance—not replace—member experiences.
Use a checklist to help you assess whether your current systems are holding you back.

Speaker: Jake Toohey, Director, Association Practice at Adage Technologies
CAE: Organizational Strategy
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Lunch (1:15-2:15 PM ET)

Session 3: (2:15-3:15 PM ET) Culture Eats Innovation for Breakfast
Course Description:
The capacity to innovate inside your organization is critical, but most organizational cultures derail innovation efforts in ways leaders can’t even see. Using research from his new book, Culture Change Made Easy, Jamie Notter will break down the key culture patterns that prevent us from unlocking new value through innovation, and he’ll give you practical tips for changing your culture in ways that support more effective experimentation and learning. Learn how to create a culture where innovation thrives—before it’s too late!

Learning Objectives:

Define what culture is and explain how it operates inside your organization.
Analyze patterns within your culture that hinder your ability to effectively carry out the fundamental tasks of innovation.
Design strategies to transform culture in ways that foster the behaviors necessary for successful innovation.

Speaker: Jamie Notter, Co-Founder at Propel
CAE: Organizational Strategy
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Session 4: (3:30-4:30 PM ET) Combating Disengagement and Creating High-Performing Teams
Course Description:
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. This session will focus on helping participants create high-performing individuals and teams by addressing the causes of disengagement and focusing on specific skills for improved performance.

Learning Objectives:

Explore the root cause of disengagement
Discover the attributes of a high-functioning team
Build alignment among you, your team and your leaders

Speaker: Steve Hopkins, Director, Organizational Performance at Wipfli
CAE: Organizational Strategy
NASBA: Personnel/Human Resources

In-Person Exclusive AWTC Panel ::: Session 5: (4:45-5:45 PM ET)
Course Description:
Technology and disruption may grab headlines, but it’s people—leaders, teams, and communities—who drive real change. This panel, hosted by AWTC, explores how association leaders are navigating AI, rethinking culture, and building inclusive, high-performing teams. Join us for a candid conversation on leading with empathy, embracing innovation without chaos, and sustaining momentum through strong peer connections.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Identify key soft skills (e.g., empathy, emotional intelligence, strategic thinking) that are critical for tech leaders in the age of AI and automation.
Describe practical approaches to fostering inclusive innovation teams that include voices from across the organization—not just IT.
Explore strategies to reshape organizational culture to support agility, collaboration, and sustainable innovation.
Evaluate what makes a high-performing team beyond just results, including peer support, emotional intelligence, and shared purpose.
Reflect on the importance of peer communities in leadership development and resilience during times of disruption.

Speakers: Michelle Wroblewski from AWTC, Hilary Marsh from AWTC, Amanda Heburg from AWTC
Moderated by: Kate Coffey-Bacon, U.S. Transactions Corp
CAE: Executive Leadership
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Our sessions will be led by thought leaders and subject-matter experts who have made significant contributions to these domains. Prepare to be engaged, informed, and inspired as you interact with individuals who have mastered the art of Innovation and Disruption.

Summer Symposium: Virtual Registration
2025-06-05 11:00 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/93647235006
Innovation and Disruption
Date: June 5th, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM (ET)
**In-person exclusive content 4:45PM-5:45PM (ET)
Location: In-person will be held at:
Adage Technologies
10 S Riverside Plaza STE 1500,
Chicago, IL 60606

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

Session 1: (11:00-12:00 PM ET) Maximizing Member Value with AI: Strategic Approaches for Associations
Course Description:
Technology is evolving at lightning speed, and associations have something truly valuable that general AI models don’t: deep industry knowledge and member expertise. While popular AI tools pull from public data, your association is in a unique position to use AI strategically and deliver standout value to your members. Join association tech and AI expert Greg Pollack, VP, Sales Enablement & Engineering Onboarding at Higher Logic, to learn how to control and build on the foundation of your own content in today’s fast-paced AI-driven world.

Learning Objectives:

Identify strategies to compete with AI searches to remain your members’ go-to resource for valuable industry information.
Apply tips to increase the likelihood of your association and resources being found in AI search results.
Explain the critical role your online community will play in our new AI-influenced landscape.
Evaluate essential data privacy considerations and ways to stay agile as new challenges and opportunities arise with AI.

Speaker: Greg Pollack, VP, Sales Enablement & Engineering Onboarding at Higher Logic
CAE: Member & Stakeholder Engagement
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Session 2: (12:15-1:15 PM ET) Innovation Without the Chaos: Redefining Disruption for Your Association
Course Description:
Disruption means different things to different organizations. For some associations, it’s about adopting new AI-driven tools. For others, it’s breaking free from a clunky CMS or reimagining how education and content are delivered. But real innovation isn’t about chasing shiny objects—it’s about aligning digital efforts with your mission, your members, and your capacity.
In this interactive session, we’ll 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. We’ll share a framework that helps IT, marketing, and education teams collaborate around shared goals, make data-informed decisions, and stay future-ready.

Learning Objectives:

Define what “disruption” means for your organization.
Analyze examples of successful digital transformation projects from other associations.
Apply tips to avoid burnout and scope creep during redesigns or re-platforming.
Identify ways to responsibly leverage AI to enhance—not replace—member experiences.
Use a checklist to help you assess whether your current systems are holding you back.

Speaker: Jake Toohey, Director, Association Practice at Adage Technologies
CAE: Organizational Strategy
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Lunch (1:15-2:15 PM ET)

Session 3: (2:15-3:15 PM ET) Culture Eats Innovation for Breakfast
Course Description:
The capacity to innovate inside your organization is critical, but most organizational cultures derail innovation efforts in ways leaders can’t even see. Using research from his new book, Culture Change Made Easy, Jamie Notter will break down the key culture patterns that prevent us from unlocking new value through innovation, and he’ll give you practical tips for changing your culture in ways that support more effective experimentation and learning. Learn how to create a culture where innovation thrives—before it’s too late!

Learning Objectives:

Define what culture is and explain how it operates inside your organization.
Analyze patterns within your culture that hinder your ability to effectively carry out the fundamental tasks of innovation.
Design strategies to transform culture in ways that foster the behaviors necessary for successful innovation.

Speaker: Jamie Notter, Co-Founder at Propel
CAE: Organizational Strategy
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Session 4: (3:30-4:30 PM ET) Combating Disengagement and Creating High-Performing Teams
Course Description:
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. This session will focus on helping participants create high-performing individuals and teams by addressing the causes of disengagement and focusing on specific skills for improved performance.

Learning Objectives:

Explore the root cause of disengagement
Discover the attributes of a high-functioning team
Build alignment among you, your team and your leaders

Speaker: Steve Hopkins, Director, Organizational Performance at Wipfli
CAE: TBA
NASBA: TBA

Our sessions will be led by thought leaders and subject-matter experts who have made significant contributions to these domains. Prepare to be engaged, informed, and inspired as you interact with individuals who have mastered the art of Innovation and Disruption.

Summer Symposium: In-Person Registration
2025-06-05 11:00 - 17:45 (America/New_York) | Adage Technologies 10 S Riverside Plaza STE 1500, Chicago, IL 60606, 10 S Riverside Plaza STE 1500, Chicago, IL, 60606, United States
Innovation and Disruption
Date: June 5th, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM (ET)
**In-person exclusive content 4:45PM-5:45PM (ET)
Location: In-person will be held at:
Adage Technologies
10 S Riverside Plaza STE 1500,
Chicago, IL 60606

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

Session 1: (11:00-12:00 PM ET) Maximizing Member Value with AI: Strategic Approaches for Associations
Course Description:
Technology is evolving at lightning speed, and associations have something truly valuable that general AI models don’t: deep industry knowledge and member expertise. While popular AI tools pull from public data, your association is in a unique position to use AI strategically and deliver standout value to your members. Join association tech and AI expert Greg Pollack, VP, Sales Enablement & Engineering Onboarding at Higher Logic, to learn how to control and build on the foundation of your own content in today’s fast-paced AI-driven world.

Learning Objectives:

Identify strategies to compete with AI searches to remain your members’ go-to resource for valuable industry information.
Apply tips to increase the likelihood of your association and resources being found in AI search results.
Explain the critical role your online community will play in our new AI-influenced landscape.
Evaluate essential data privacy considerations and ways to stay agile as new challenges and opportunities arise with AI.

Speaker: Greg Pollack, VP, Sales Enablement & Engineering Onboarding at Higher Logic
CAE: Member & Stakeholder Engagement
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Session 2: (12:15-1:15 PM ET) Innovation Without the Chaos: Redefining Disruption for Your Association
Course Description:
Disruption means different things to different organizations. For some associations, it’s about adopting new AI-driven tools. For others, it’s breaking free from a clunky CMS or reimagining how education and content are delivered. But real innovation isn’t about chasing shiny objects—it’s about aligning digital efforts with your mission, your members, and your capacity.
In this interactive session, we’ll 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. We’ll share a framework that helps IT, marketing, and education teams collaborate around shared goals, make data-informed decisions, and stay future-ready.

Learning Objectives:

Define what “disruption” means for your organization.
Analyze examples of successful digital transformation projects from other associations.
Apply tips to avoid burnout and scope creep during redesigns or re-platforming.
Identify ways to responsibly leverage AI to enhance—not replace—member experiences.
Use a checklist to help you assess whether your current systems are holding you back.

Speaker: Jake Toohey, Director, Association Practice at Adage Technologies
CAE: Organizational Strategy
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Lunch (1:15-2:15 PM ET)

Session 3: (2:15-3:15 PM ET) Culture Eats Innovation for Breakfast
Course Description:
The capacity to innovate inside your organization is critical, but most organizational cultures derail innovation efforts in ways leaders can’t even see. Using research from his new book, Culture Change Made Easy, Jamie Notter will break down the key culture patterns that prevent us from unlocking new value through innovation, and he’ll give you practical tips for changing your culture in ways that support more effective experimentation and learning. Learn how to create a culture where innovation thrives—before it’s too late!

Learning Objectives:

Define what culture is and explain how it operates inside your organization.
Analyze patterns within your culture that hinder your ability to effectively carry out the fundamental tasks of innovation.
Design strategies to transform culture in ways that foster the behaviors necessary for successful innovation.

Speaker: Jamie Notter, Co-Founder at Propel
CAE: Organizational Strategy
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Session 4: (3:30-4:30 PM ET) Combating Disengagement and Creating High-Performing Teams
Course Description:
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. This session will focus on helping participants create high-performing individuals and teams by addressing the causes of disengagement and focusing on specific skills for improved performance.

Learning Objectives:

Explore the root cause of disengagement
Discover the attributes of a high-functioning team
Build alignment among you, your team and your leaders

Speaker: Steve Hopkins, Director, Organizational Performance at Wipfli
CAE: TBA
NASBA: TBA

In-Person Exclusive AWTC Panel ::: Session 5: (4:45-5:45 PM ET)
Course Description:
Technology and disruption may grab headlines, but it’s people—leaders, teams, and communities—who drive real change. This panel, hosted by AWTC, explores how association leaders are navigating AI, rethinking culture, and building inclusive, high-performing teams. Join us for a candid conversation on leading with empathy, embracing innovation without chaos, and sustaining momentum through strong peer connections.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Identify key soft skills (e.g., empathy, emotional intelligence, strategic thinking) that are critical for tech leaders in the age of AI and automation.
Describe practical approaches to fostering inclusive innovation teams that include voices from across the organization—not just IT.
Explore strategies to reshape organizational culture to support agility, collaboration, and sustainable innovation.
Evaluate what makes a high-performing team beyond just results, including peer support, emotional intelligence, and shared purpose.
Reflect on the importance of peer communities in leadership development and resilience during times of disruption.

Speakers: Michelle Wroblewski from AWTC, Hilary Marsh from AWTC, Amanda Heburg from AWTC
Moderated by: Kate Coffey-Bacon, U.S. Transactions Corp
CAE: Executive Leadership
NASBA: Business Management & Organization

Our sessions will be led by thought leaders and subject-matter experts who have made significant contributions to these domains. Prepare to be engaged, informed, and inspired as you interact with individuals who have mastered the art of Innovation and Disruption.

AI in Hiring: Why Human Resources Is Still Human
2025-06-10 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/95575593577
Course Description:
Artificial Intelligence 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. In this session, Jaime Hirschfeld, Director of Client Sales and Services at FlexProfessionals, will explore how organizations can use AI tools to enhance, not replace, the relationships and insights that drive effective hiring.
Drawing on her experience at FlexProfessionals, Jaime will share real-world examples and best practices for balancing technology with the empathy, intuition, and judgment that only humans bring to hiring.
Whether you’re an HR leader, recruiter, or business executive, you’ll leave this session with a deeper understanding of how to leverage AI responsibly, partner effectively with staffing firms, and keep the “human” at the center of human resources.

Learning Objectives:
Understand the current and emerging uses of AI in the hiring process and how it impacts recruiting workflows.
Identify the limitations and potential risks of AI in hiring, including bias, privacy concerns, and candidate experience.
Learn strategies for integrating AI tools while maintaining a human-centered approach to ensure ethical, inclusive, and effective hiring.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

What’s Working Now: 5 Proven Campaigns to Drive Member Engagement
2025-06-11 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/93655847044
Course Description:
Let’s talk member engagement that actually moves the needle. In this webinar, we’ll walk through five real-world membership campaigns—from renewals and re-engagement to acquisition—that delivered impressive results. You’ll see how organizations are using timely, conversational outreach to connect with members in meaningful ways (and get measurable ROI). Whether you’re focused on growth, retention, or just trying to better engage your audience, you’ll leave with proven ideas to bring your membership strategy to life.

Learning Objectives:
Implement timely, conversational engagement to increase membership renewals
Apply strategies to re-engage lapsed members and bring them back into your community
Leverage in-person events and conferences to build lasting member connections
Utilize web engagement tools to support member acquisition campaigns
Identify and measure influenced engagement across touchpoints

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

How Are Executive Orders Impacting Associations? A Real-Time Check-in With Association Leaders
2025-06-11 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/91364750986
Course Description:
Five months into a new administration, executive orders are rolling out fast and the ripple effects are hitting associations in very different ways. Some are in reaction mode. Others are taking bold stands. Most are somewhere in between.
In this interactive panel discussion, Matrix Group CEO Joanna Pineda will facilitate a real-time check-in with association executives from across different industries. They’ll share how the latest executive orders are impacting their work, their members, and their missions and what they’re doing about it.

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.

Learning Objectives:

Explain the latest Executive Orders and their impact on associations, including DEI programs, employment policies, and federal funding requirements.

Evaluate your association’s policies and programs to identify areas of potential legal, financial, or operational risk.

Identify and implement actionable steps to update governance practices, adjust policies, and ensure compliance while maintaining your association’s mission and commitments.

Event Marketing Mastery: Turning Conferences Into Revenue Generators
2025-06-12 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/97013329997
Course Description:
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. Perfect for marketers looking to make the most of their conference budgets. And bonus: I’ll share my tested template for success.

Learning Objectives:
Define clear, measurable objectives that tie event participation directly to pipeline impact.
Develop strategies for creating interactive booth experiences and fostering meaningful in-person connections that drive real results.
Apply practical methods for tracking key success metrics, proving ROI, and continuously improving your event marketing strategy.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Broadcast to Breakthrough: Turning Webinars Into Engagement Powerhouses
2025-06-12 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/95421081263
Course Description:

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? This panel of B2B marketers will share 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. This engaging session will equip you with the tools to turn one-time attendees into long-term relationships.

Learning Objectives:

Analyze the full potential of webinars as a launchpad for ongoing engagement.
Apply practical strategies to nurture leads post-webinar and drive conversions.
Develop content and follow-up processes that keep your brand top of mind.
Implement personalization techniques for attendee engagement and retention.
Assess webinar success and ROI post-event using metrics.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

From Hidden Gem to Headline Maker: Becoming the Go-to Source Through Earned Media
2025-06-17 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/95654356773
Course Description:
In a crowded media landscape, associations and nonprofits must not only compete for attention but also assert themselves as credible sources of industry insight. This webinar will explore the essential strategies that associations/nonprofits can use to become recognized media authorities. From crafting compelling narratives to nurturing meaningful media relationships, attendees will learn how to create high-value, newsworthy content that captures the attention of top-tier journalists.
Whether you’re new to media outreach or looking to refine your existing approach, this session provides a blueprint for increasing your organization’s earned media impact.

Learning Objectives:
Identify key components of a PR strategy that positions associations as thought leaders.
Analyze techniques for tailoring media pitches to align with journalists’ needs and news cycles.
Apply practical tips for building and maintaining a curated media list that drives ongoing coverage.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

18 Ways to Take Your Newsletter to the Next Level
2025-06-17 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/94135332068
Course Description:
This practical and insightful webinar explores 18 actionable strategies to enhance your email newsletter’s effectiveness. The session covers everything from content curation and personalization to automation, design best practices, and engagement tactics. Whether you’re building a newsletter from scratch or looking to boost performance, the hosts provide tips, tools, and real-life examples to help organizations grow their audience, increase open rates, and drive meaningful results.

Learning Objectives:
Apply strategies to improve newsletter performance through smarter content, design, and automation—no major overhaul required.
Evaluate opportunities to use AI and personalization to help you deliver more relevant content to each subscriber, increasing engagement and retention.
Balance curated and original content to keep your newsletter fresh and valuable.
Understand key design and layout best practices that improve readability, click-through rates, and mobile responsiveness.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Executive Compensation and Other Employee Benefit Considerations in NFPs
2025-06-24 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/93866991807
Course Description:

This session is designed to focus on the different types of executive compensation and employee benefits that are commonly encountered at not-for-profit organizations such as 457(b), 457(f) and other deferred compensation agreements. The session will provide background on these types of compensation vehicles and review both accounting and reporting for such plans, including review of specific Form 990 considerations.

Learning Objectives:

Identify types of executive compensation and other employee benefits
Analyze accounting and financial reporting requirements for executive compensation and employee benefits in not-for-profit organizations.- Form 990 Schedule J and other disclosures
Interpret Form 990 Schedule J and other required disclosures related to executive compensation and benefit plans.

To Watch this Webinar on the Media Library CLICK HERE!

Update on Executive Actions Affecting Federally Funded Nonprofits
2025-06-24 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | zoom.us/j/99418815660
Course Description:
Join us for an in-depth webinar tailored to nonprofit leaders and grants professionals navigating the evolving federal policy landscape. This session will provide an overview of critical Executive Orders, their implementation and impact on nonprofits. Finally, the webinar will 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.

Learning Objectives:
Identify important Executive Orders implementing revised policy for federally funded nonprofits and agency approaches to implementation.
Explain federal rights to update terms and conditions of awards, as well as terminate federal awards that “no longer effectuates agency priorities.”
Evaluate key underlying federal civil rights laws implicated by certain of the Executive Orders and discuss practical compliance considerations.
Develop strategies for nonprofit leaders to respond effectively to the changing federal landscape.
