Welcoming Environment Advisory Groups

Association Forum is pleased to announce the formation of Identity-Based Advisory Groups to provide guidance on how to advance Welcoming Environment® strategies that will enrich member experiences, professional development, leadership development, cultural awareness, and competency. The advisory groups will assist with membership outreach, engagement and retention, and ensuring representation throughout the association.

Advisory Group Charges and Responsibilities:

• Develop strategies to increase membership and engagement among association management professionals that self-identify in one of these groups.
• Provide insights regarding successful membership growth, programs/services, and engagement opportunities within these communities.
• Increase the profile of members in these communities by:
  • Ensuring the submission of session proposals for signature events
  • Ensuring the submission of at least one article to the FORUM Magazine 
  • Encouraging members submit applications to the Call for Volunteers
  • Encouraging members submit applications for Board of Directors nominations
• Collaborate with other advisory groups, SIGs, committees, and staff to streamline efforts and maximize strategies.
• Review charge and responsibilities annually to assess needs and update accordingly.
• One of the two Co-Chairs represents the Advisory Group at the WE Committee.
• Other charges as assigned.

Each advisory group will consist of six to seven members led by two co-chairs with an assigned liaison from the Association Forum Board of Directors.

Please email membership@associationforum.org for more information or to get involved with an Advisory Group.  

LatinX Advisory Group Members:

Josie Hernandez, IOM, Chair
Norma Castrejon, CAE
Marissa Lopez, CAE
Juana Espinoza Vazquez
Jose Segarra, MNA, CAE, CNP, Board Liaison

BIPOC Advisory Group Members:

Kara Ferguson, MSHTM, CMP, DES
Shanda McFadden, CEPA
Charmaine Osborne, CAE
Monae Redmond, MBA
Stephen Peeler, CFRE, FCEP, Board Liaison

LGBTQI Advisory Group Members:

Zack Wahlquist, CAE, Chair
Kellie Braband
James Gibson, PMP
Jeff Mitchell
Travis Skodack, CAE
Bob Moore, MA, CAE, Board Liaison