Association 201

Association 201

Take Away Tangible Skills to Impact Change in Your Team & Organization

Introducing an immersive 6-hour program designed to empower professionals seeking a competitive edge and elevated expertise in association management. The curriculum blends tactical competencies with essential soft skills, offering a comprehensive exploration of contemporary leadership styles, intrapreneurship strategies, and the latest trends within the association industry.

Throughout the course, participants will embark on an interactive journey, engaging in hands-on learning experiences tailored to accelerate personal and professional growth. By fostering an environment that encourages active participation, this program equips individuals with the tools and techniques necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of modern leadership.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of New Power Leadership principles and apply them in their leadership style.
  • Utilize intrapreneurship techniques to drive innovation and add value within their associations.
  • Identify and understand emerging trends crucial to shaping the future landscape of associations.
  • Strengthen their leadership skills and professional identity for career growth.
  • Leverage the Association Forum community to enhance their personal and professional development.

 March 20-21, 2025 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m. CT each day
Virtual-only session!

Registration Coming Soon!

To receive an invoice and pay via check/ACH, please contact education@associationforum.org.

 

Pricing

Member: $379
Nonmember: $499

Note: Forum Plus members receive a 10% discount when five or more members register together.

CAE credits

This program is approved for (5.67) CAE hours toward the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE's) Certified Association Executive (CAE) certification.

 

Who Should Attend

  • Mid-level association professionals seeking to advance their knowledge & leadership competencies, improve job performance, drive better outcomes, create more impactful teams, and advance their careers.
  • The program is not explicitly for professionals in a supervisory role—if you're part of a team, you'll benefit! 

Education

Program Outline

Module 1: Embracing New Power Leadership

    • Understanding New Power Leadership principles: open, participatory, and peer-driven.
    • Exploring different contemporary leadership styles and approaches.
    • Expanding the sphere of influence for effective leadership.

Module 2: Unlocking Intrapreneurship

    • Defining intrapreneurship and its importance in association development.
    • Identifying opportunities for innovative approaches within associations.
    • Empowering individuals to drive stronger organizations and create greater member value.

Module 3: Tomorrow Is Now: Navigating Emerging Trends

    • Exploring emerging thinking and new technologies shaping the future of associations.
    • Charting a path today to ensure a brighter future for all associations.
    • Analyzing the impact of emerging trends on organizational strategies.

Module 4: Power Up Your Personal Leadership

    • Leveraging expertise, innovation, and connections to break through to the next leadership level.
    • Compelling tailored experiences for effective leadership.
    • Curating and leveraging your personal brand.

Module 5: Empowering Middle Management

    • Specialized training to strengthen leadership skills and advance team development.
    • Harnessing the power of the Association Forum community for support and growth.
    • Effective strategies to navigate complex organizational dynamics and foster cohesive interdepartmental collaboration.

Module 6: Mastering Career Development Skills and Opportunities

    • Accessing premier resources to master the skills necessary for career advancement.
    • Understanding association professional career paths and opportunities.
    • Building a network of peers, mentors, and experts for personal and professional growth.

Moderator

Jen Solerno

Jen Salerno boasts over 20 years of diverse experience in the events and hospitality industry, having excelled in roles ranging from hotel sales and CVB services to contract specialist, event moderator, and podcast host. Her comprehensive background provides her with a unique, multifaceted perspective on the industry, fueling her passion for advancing and securing its future. Currently, Jen serves as the Area Senior Sales Manager for the Royal Sonesta Hotels of Chicago, focusing on the citywide convention and association market. She thrives on having engaging conversations that drive the industry forward.

Jen’s innate curiosity and background in hospitality enable her to genuinely engage with speakers and audiences alike, building a sense of community. Jen brings a mix of engaging energy and calm capability, ready to skillfully guide participants through a cohesive event journey that meets the objectives and expectations of all stakeholders.

A lifelong learner with a thirst for personal and professional development, Jen continues to partner with key event industry organizations such as the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), and IMEX Group. 

Anthony Molino

Anthony Molino is the Assistant Director of Sales at McCormick Place. Prior to accepting this role, Anthony was the Director of Sales at Choose Chicago, Director of the Chicago Area Sales Office for the Atlanta Convention Visitors Bureau and Director of National Accounts at the Hiltons of Washington DC, and Hiltons of Chicago. 

Anthony has been an active member of MPI for 11 years, PCMA for 6 years, Destinations International for 3 years, and ASAE for 2 years. He has held positions on the board of directors in the Chicago Area Chapter and is a past president of the Potomac Chapter of MPI. He is currently the past Chair of the MPI Global DE&I Advocacy Council.

Anthony is a founding member of the Diverse Community and Neighborhood Engagement committee at Choose Chicago and has been a panelist on several webinars and podcasts including The Room Block with Jen Salerno and MPI Potomac Cast: Voices of the Members of MPI Potomac. Anthony is an out and proud member of the hospitality industry, living in Chicago with his husband (also Anthony) and rescue pup, Phoebe. He has a bachelor’s degree in Business Communications from Ball State University and a Master’s in Education from DePaul University.