Member Update 3-18-25

Greetings ASAE Community,

Please find a few important updates from ASAE in the past few weeks:

ASAE Celebrates Women’s History Month

This month, ASAE is celebrating the remarkable women currently serving on ASAE’s Executive Committee through a series of social media posts that showcase their invaluable contributions, their impact on our community, and their words of wisdom for emerging leaders. We recognize their dedication to fostering inclusive leadership, championing professional growth and paving the way for the next generation of women association professionals to excel. Look for more posts throughout the month!

March is Also National Ethics Awareness Month

In March, ASAE observes National Ethics Awareness Month, along with a wide range of professional associations, businesses, public agencies, and other institutions. ASAE members—association professionals, consultants, and industry partners—are dedicated to upholding ethical standards that contribute positive benefits for members and the public. During the past year, we have pursued new projects to better serve member needs: the ASAE Ethics Committee has revised and updated the ASAE Ethics Toolkit, ASAE Learning has added Ethics courses to our new digital platform, ASAE Academy, and ASAE has published valuable articles for members on ethics challenges.

ASAE Pulse Survey Highlights Challenges for Associations

A new pulse survey conducted by ASAE reveals that many associations are experiencing financial strain, operational disruptions and strategic uncertainties in the current political and regulatory environment. These findings highlight the complex and evolving landscape that associations must navigate as they continue to serve their industries and professions.

The pulse survey, launched earlier this month, is the first in a series of member polls ASAE is conducting as part of its Insight-as-a-Service initiative. This initiative was developed to provide associations with timely data and nonpartisan insights needed to shape their organizational strategies now and in the future. Check out the report (free for members) for detailed findings and the ASAE press release.

ASAE-Endorsed Workforce Bill Gaining Momentum in Congress

The ASAE-endorsed Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act has gained 73 cosponsors in the House, as was recently highlighted by lead bill sponsor Congressman Rob Wittman (R-VA). The bill was also recently reintroduced in the Senate with a bipartisan group of cosponsors.

This legislation would expand qualified expenses under 529 savings plans to include postsecondary training and credentialing, such as licenses and nongovernmental certifications. The bill's progress is due in large part to the growth and advocacy of the Tomorrow's Workforce Coalition, which is approaching 900 member organizations. We encourage members to take action and tell Congress to support the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act!

ASAE Welcomes Chris Moore as Chief Learning and Meetings Officer

ASAE is excited to announce Chris Moore is joining ASAE as our new Chief Learning and Meetings Officer, effective March 24, 2025. In this mission-critical role, Chris will oversee the growth and evolution of ASAE’s learning portfolio, ensuring it continues to meet the dynamic needs of ASAE members. By enhancing learning opportunities, Chris will help association professionals navigate their responsibilities more effectively and maximize the impact of their work. Welcome, Chris!

ASAE’s 2025 Investment Benchmarking Survey

ASAE, in collaboration with Fiducient Advisors, is updating its annual trend research on association investment policies and performance. No matter the size of your investment reserves, your participation will help us provide the most accurate portrayal of current practices and understand how associations are adjusting to rapidly changing market shifts and operational challenges. Participate by April 18 and receive a complimentary copy of the Association Investment Policies, Practices, and Performance report. 

Save the Date for Upcoming ASAE Programs

As always, thank you for your engagement with ASAE and please reach out with any questions.

Warm regards,

Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE

President and CEO