Some ASAE Annual Meeting Thoughts

Just got back from Chicago and the ASAE Annual Meeting. I think ASAE outdid themselves once again with this meeting. I'll go so far as to say that the opening general session, with "An Association Musical" as its theme, and featuring Lee & Bob Woodruff, was the best ASAE opening session I've ever attended (and this one marks my ninth). The way ASAE interwove the business portion of the meeting (e.g., delivering news about what the association has accomplished, talking about upcoming initiatives) was very well done. And the Woodruffs were moving and inspiring.

Another highlight for me was Lieutenant General James L. Campbell, speaking on leadership. If even half of the world was as passionate about their work as General Campbell is, there would be nothing we couldn't accomplish. Absolutely fascinating stories and a truly remarkable man. I watched him talk to the 30+ people who lined up to greet him after his presentation, and I was amazed at how he locked eyes on every person who spoke with him, and listened like they were the only person in the room. Very impressive.

But my favorite part of this meeting, as it is every year, is re-connecting with friends and colleagues. I really enjoy catching up with people I haven't spoken with in awhile, and seeing the vendors out on the show floor showing off their latest goods. Everybody who is somebody is at this meeting, and if you're not attending, you're really short-changing yourself. If you're serious about your association career, ASAE's Annual Meeting is a must-attend!

About Wes Trochlil

For over 30 years, Wes has worked in and with dozens of associations and membership organizations throughout the US, ranging in size from zero staff (all-volunteer) to over 700. In that time Wes has provided a range of consulting services, from general consulting on data management issues to full-scale, association-wide selection and implementation of association management systems.

3 thoughts on “Some ASAE Annual Meeting Thoughts”

  1. You’re absolutely right about Gen. Campbell. I saw him speak a few months ago up in Toronto, and I couldn’t have been more impressed. I especially appreciated his emphasis on serving those you lead. Way too many leaders today seem to think that once you’re in the leadership spot, others should be serving you …

    It was a pleasure to meet you in person in Chicago!

  2. Nice meeting you, too, Lisa.

    And re: General Campbell, I was fairly floored by how humble and, dare I say, sensitive a 3-star general could be. Just amazing.

  3. The musical numbers mostly left me wanting to run screaming towards the doors. The only exceptions were the Committee and the Free Buffet songs. I think I would have opted for a Chicago blues theme over a broadway musical one.

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