Education Sessions
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CAE Curious?
If you are considering the Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation, we invite you to join us for an info session to learn what the CAE can do for your professional development and career advancement. Whether you are a developing leader or an experienced association professional, the CAE certification will enhance your professional acumen. Hear from CalSAE staff on the CAE application process and guidelines, and learn from newly minted CAE's about their experience preparing for the exam and get all your questions answered about the process.
Megan Denhardt, CAE, Education Consultant, CalSAE
Amanda Parsons, CAE, Executive Director, Oregon Recreation & Park Association
Energize Your Conference: How to Supercharge Your Content, Workshops, & Participants
The vibe of your meeting or conference is established the moment attendees walk in. Will they think, “This is predictable and informative,” or “Wow – this is going to be fun!”? Research shows our brains retain more information when we create space for participants to process content and tap into the collective knowledge in the room. This session will explore how to design engaging conferences and meetings that bridge the gap between rookies and veterans, fostering valuable networking opportunities. Learn how conference design impacts memory retention, gather best practices for more engaging general sessions and workshops, and brainstorm creative ideas to infuse energy and excitement into your event. Walk away with actionable strategies to create experiences that captivate and energize attendees, ensuring lasting impact.
Becky Lunders, Founder, Consultant and Trainer, teamWorks
Speaking Their Language: Using the 5 Languages of Appreciation to Motivate Boards and Teams
In today’s diverse and hybrid work environment, effective communication across generations and work styles is essential to avoiding miscommunication, increasing engagement, and reducing turnover. This interactive session will introduce you to the 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace, providing practical insights on how to tailor your communication to motivate both board members and team members. You’ll learn how to identify others' preferred languages and apply them to foster more productive meetings and a cohesive, motivated team dynamic. By the end of the program, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your own and others’ motivators, helping to bridge disconnects, inspire colleagues, and create positive feedback loops. With actionable tools at your disposal, you'll enhance morale, strengthen loyalty, and boost overall efficiency, ultimately improving outcomes across your organization.
David Ackert, MA, CEO, Pipeline Plus
Standing Out in a Crowd
In the association industry, as in many sectors, diversity often falls short. This panel brings together trailblazing leaders who have navigated challenges around visibility and representation. Through personal stories and actionable strategies, the panel will explore how embracing authenticity can lead to professional growth, stronger member and stakeholder relationships, and a deeper sense of community in the workplace. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the importance of authenticity, visibility, and the impact of integrating one’s heritage and identity into professional life. This session will empower participants with practical advice to excel in their careers while celebrating their unique identities. Leave with renewed confidence, actionable tools, and inspiration to make a meaningful impact in your career and within the association industry.
Teresa Excinia, CAE, MBA, Executive Director, California Advocates Inc.John Hooley, President, Steward
Sheila Johnston, Co-Founder & Chief Growth Officer, Luminari Partners
Gary Murakami, GTP, GLP, CMP - Fellow, CMM, DES, VP, Global Sales & Industry Relations, Teneo Hospitality Group
Association Meeting Planning Challenges & Best Practices
Join us for an interactive, facilitator-led discussion on the evolving landscape of meeting planning in the association sector. In this session, we will explore the challenges faced by meeting planners in today’s post-pandemic environment and discuss innovative solutions to address them. Unlike traditional sessions, this format encourages active participation where you can share your own challenges, learn how others are adapting to the changing landscape, and collaborate with peers. Gain insights into current industry trends, hear real-world experiences, and walk away with new strategies and connections that will help you navigate the complexities of meeting planning and elevate your event success. Come prepared to engage, learn, and contribute to this dynamic conversation.
Touda Bentatou, Director of Customer Onboarding, NoviAMSThreasa Hernandez, Event Manager, CITE (CA IT in Education)
Diane Niggli, Senior Director, Global Accounts, HelmsBriscoe
Leverage Storytelling Into Money-Making Content
Storytelling is more than just entertainment—it’s a powerful tool to turn content into revenue for your association. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to uncover authentic stories within your organization that connect with your members and resonate across various platforms, including social media, email, and in-person events. Discover strategies to evoke emotional responses from your audience, turning engagement into real-world results such as increased sponsorships and revenue. With a focus on actionable steps, you’ll leave equipped with the knowledge to create story-driven marketing campaigns that not only elevate your brand but also grow your bottom line, driving both membership growth and financial success.
Amy Hager, Founder and CEO, Amy Hager Solutions
Ready Player You: Gaming Leadership Lessons
Have you ever led a raid on a secure facility or tried to steal a dragon’s hoard? No? How about crafting a strategic plan while juggling members, board meetings, committees, and advocacy? Of course, because you work at an association! Leading in this environment requires knowledge, experience, and collaboration. This session explores the varied world of games and how they can help you be both a better leader and a better teammate. Games create a dynamic space to experiment, build relationships, and strengthen strategic thinking. Join us as we dive into how gaming can enhance your leadership abilities, improve communication, and foster team cohesion. After all, kids learn from playing games—and adults can too! Discover how incorporating games into your leadership strategy can teach valuable skills while having fun!