2024 GSAE Holiday Luncheon, Awards Show, Business Meeting & Silent Auction
Cost
GSAE Member – $59 ($69 after Nov. 27)
GSAE additional staff – $45 ($55 after Nov. 27)
Guests – $69 ($79 after Nov. 27)
$4 flat rate self-parking – thank you to our host!
Room Block available from our host Hyatt Regency Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina for $127 plus taxes. Reserve room here. ***Cut-off date is Monday, Nov. 25.***
Schedule10:00 am–1:30 pm: ACFB Food Drive 10:15 am–12:00 pm: Silent Auction, Wine Toss & Networking Reception 12:00–1:30 pm: Luncheon, Awards Show, Annual Business Meeting & Officer Installation 1:30 pm: Silent Auction Cash-out Thank you to our sponsor: Jekyll Island Authority
Thank you to our annual AV sponsor: OAV, Orchestrated Audiovisual & Production Services
Donate Now, then Bid High and Bid Often!
Donating a Silent Auction prize is one of the best ways to promote your organization, while helping GSAE raise money for educational programming. Our 2023 Silent Auctions raised over $27,500. Thanks to member Tony Rissley and Expo Auctions, the auction is virtual and open to all GSAE members.
If helpful, we encourage you to partner with a sister property, organization, and/or your local CVB to help promote your area or organization and support GSAE's educational programming. Donate a prize today.
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GSAE Member News
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Shan Haugabrook, CNP was a guest on Naylor Association Solutions' podcast Association Adviser discussing service-driven leadership. Listen here. |
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Frequent GSAE speaker and recognized law expert, Jeffrey Tenenbaum, Esq., Tenenbaum Law Group PLLC, has won the 2025 Association Industry Partner of the Year! This award honors strategic partnership, a commitment to the advancement of the association industry, a collaborative approach, and a dedication to ethical standards and integrity. Read more here! |
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Carter Davis is the new Senior Director of Content Services at Naylor Association Solutions (Naylor LLC). |
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Lili Aris is Director of Executive Operations and Constituent Programs at USA Poultry & Egg Export Council. |
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Jeremiah Cook, CDME, CMP is Assistant Director, Tourism at City of College Station. |
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Mary Statkewicz, CMP, Senior Sales Manager, Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism will retire in December. |
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Daniel McClure, CPA, Partner, Reed, Quinn & McClure will retire in December. |
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David Waldrep, CAE, Executive Director/CEO, Medical Association of Atlanta is retiring next year. |
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The 2025 Nominating Committee has announced the slate of officers, members of the Board of Directors, and the Foundation's Board of Trustees. Office installation and recognition of outgoing leaders is December 11 during the GSAE Annual Business Meeting at Hyatt Regency Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina. Review the slate. |
Congratulations to GSAE's 2024 Award Recipients
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Mary J. Wheatley, IOM, CAE
Chief Executive Officer, National Scleroderma Foundation
Member since 2009
Clifford M. Clarke Award
The Clifford M. Clarke Award is GSAE's highest honor and is presented to honor a member for an outstanding career of leadership and service to associations in Georgia. It is named for the late Cliff Clarke, president emeritus of the Arthritis Foundation and the first Georgian to serve as chief elected officer of ASAE.
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Jacob Wilder, CAE
Senior Director, Operations and Communications, Building Owners and Managers Association of Georgia
Member since 2014
Alan R. Johnson Servant Leadership Award
Established in 1994 and named in memory of a former Chair of the GSAE Foundation, this award is presented to honor a member who exhibits the ability to influence others by modeling positive behavior, gaining cooperation from others, and fostering creativity and innovative thinking.
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Austin Seamster
Manager, Education & Safety, Associated Builders & Contractors of Georgia
Member since 2022
Sharon Hunt Emerging Leader Award
This award is given to an association executive in Georgia based on three criteria: Impact in their own organization, involvement in GSAE, and service to the community other than through GSAE. Established in 2004, this award is presented to a member who has been in the association management profession for ten years or less.
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Lori Dodd
Business Development, Director, Chattanooga Tourism Co.
Member since 2018
Peggy Seigler Corporate Member of the Year Award
Named in 2015, the award celebrates the many contributions of Peggy Seigler, MPA, CDME, a beloved and valued member of the community. The criterion for this award is continuous involvement and support of GSAE and the Foundation throughout her participation in GSAE.
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Holly Wright
Director, Global Accounts, Omni Hotels & Resorts
Member since 2013
Skelton-Massey Award
The Skelton-Massey Award is presented to the person who recruits the most new individual members into GSAE during the year. The award recognizes the member who supports and sponsors the most new members, strengthening GSAE in size and effectiveness. |
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Taylor Echard
Marketing and Communications Manager, Atlanta Apartment Association
Member since 2023
Chair’s Award
The Chair's Award is presented for going above and beyond the call of duty to help GSAE. |
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Sheryl Ehlers, CMP, MS
Senior Sales Manager, Atlanta Marriott Northwest at Galleria
Stephen Styron Award
The Stephen Styron Award is presented to an outstanding committee, Shared Interest Group, or task force chair. It is named in honor of one of GSAE's past presidents who was the first Georgian to earn the CAE designation.
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Lori Dodd
Business Development, Director, Chattanooga Tourism Co.
Stephen Styron Award
The Stephen Styron Award is presented to an outstanding committee, Shared Interest Group, or task force chair. It is named in honor of one of GSAE's past presidents who was the first Georgian to earn the CAE designation.
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Holly Wright
Director, Global Accounts, Omni Hotels & Resorts
Stephen Styron Award
The Stephen Styron Award is presented to an outstanding committee, Shared Interest Group, or task force chair. It is named in honor of one of GSAE's past presidents who was the first Georgian to earn the CAE designation.
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2024 Fall GSAE Foundation Grant Recipients
MPI Georgia's 2024 Phoenix Award Winners
Congratulations to our GSAE members on their MPI Georgia 2024 Phoenix Award!
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Carol Hall, Association Sales Manager, Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center, received the Hall of Fame/Lifetime Achievement Award. |
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Kevin Priger, Senior Sales Manager, Hilton Atlanta Northeast, received the Supplier Member of the Year Award. |
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Discover Dunwoody received the Sponsor Impact Award. |
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James Magazine 2024 Top Awards
“Georgia Hospital Association is proud to be voted the #1 Trade and Business Association in Georgia by James Magazine,” said GHA President and CEO Caylee Noggle. “We are honored to be recognized as an effective health care advocate on behalf of our 145 member hospitals, health systems, and the patients they serve.” Additional GSAE member organizations were recognized online.
James Magazine’s Lobbyist Hall of Fame 2024 Inductees include current and retired GSAE members, plus posthumous recognition for Abit Massey, CAE and Earl Rogers. Congratulations to Roy Bowen, Joe Brannen, CAE, Lee Lemke, CAE, Bill Morie, CAE, Kevin Perry, and Jim Tudor.
Top 100 Lobbyists – Mike Giles, Kevin Perry
The Lobbyist Rising Stars – Rhonda Chatham, Tucker Green
Venturing Into Uncharted Waters
Long before “innovation” and “thinking differently” became popular terms in the business world, Sheri Jacobs, FASAE, CAE recognized a crucial truth: real change can only occur when we know how to break free from traditional boundaries and ask, “What if I could?” Her unique perspective and approach to generating breakthrough ideas have made her a sought-after speaker and consultant for hundreds of organizations. In her book, Venturing Into Uncharted Waters, Sheri shares images from her travels across all seven continents and insights on embracing risk and fostering innovation. Link to order and use the promo code for GSAE members: FREESHIP
Explore Brookhaven is excited to announce their continued partnership with Rocket Mahjong providing classes to learn this classic game at our offices in Town Brookhaven. Learn more and register for classes at Explore Brookhaven.
Welcome Back to The Omni Grove Park Inn
The Omni Grove Park Inn will reopen its historic Main Inn for overnight stays beginning Friday, November 15. We are heartbroken by the losses Western North Carolina has endured from Hurricane Helene, yet inspired by the region’s resilience and spirit. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of our associates, partners and first responders. Plan your visit.
Your Part-Time Controller Opens Atlanta Office
Your Part-Time Controller, LLC (YPTC), a leading provider of nonprofit accounting services, is thrilled to announce the expansion of its regional office to Atlanta, Georgia. This new YPTC office will serve the Atlanta metropolitan area, providing tailored financial management services to support the region's growing nonprofit sector. With a nationwide team of over 700 employees, YPTC also offers a dedicated group specializing in the unique financial needs of associations. GSAE member Brittney Love represents YPTC’s Atlanta market, bringing expertise and a commitment to empowering local associations. Read More.
ESPA Launches 2025 Event Service Professionals of the Year Award
Event Service Professionals Association (ESPA) recognizes stellar ESPs, whether they work for hotels, convention centers or CVBs—or various combinations—via its Event Service Professionals of the Year Award. Nominations will be accepted from meeting planners who worked directly with the nominee on an event in the past year. Learn More.
2025 Leadership Academy Applications Open
Applications will be accepted through December 1, 2024 for 2025.
- Updated curriculum relevant to solving today's challenges
- Experiential learning opportunities and tours of local associations
- Small group work designed to turn information into knowledge
- Capstone project required for graduation
- Facilitated by current and past GSAE leaders, past graduates, and subject specialists
- Open to GSAE members and staff
- $1,500 GSAE price
- 6 CAE hours per leadership academy session
- 8:30 am–3:30 pm ET, lunch and materials included
GSAE 2025 Budget Numbers
We’ll add additional opportunities for connecting and learning throughout the year, but this is a great start!
- Shared Interest Group meetings are included in your membership.
- Association Executive dues are $325; additional association staff members are $150 a la carte.
- We are launching an organizational pilot later this month. Watch your email for details.
- Corporate Supplier dues are $350; additional staff from the same company are $250.
- Quarterly events on February 19, April 16, July 16, and September 17, 2025 are $49 for GSAE members.
- Exclusive event sponsorship available for July – $1,500.
- The Holiday Luncheon, Awards Show & Silent Auction on December 10, 2025 is $59 for GSAE members.
- Two sponsorships are available for $2,000.
- The 2025 GSAE Annual Meeting is in Savannah, GA, May 28-May 30. Registration fee for the first association executive attendee – $429; corporate supplier exhibitor and sponsor packages range from $729-$3,599; additional attendees from the same organization – $389 each.
2025 GSAE Hosting Opportunities Available
- Quarterly events on February 19, April 16, July 16, and September 17, plus the Holiday Luncheon on December 10 – view events RFP.
- Interested in hosting a 2025 Leadership Academy session? Contact Wendy at wendy "at" gsae.org.
2025 Inclusion Calendar Published
Welcome Mat. GSAE is committed to being a resource and model for members and organizations on effective practices that drive successful diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. GSAE believes in fostering a welcoming culture amongst our members that is diverse, inclusive, and equitable to all. We know our differences are what make us stronger. Through diverse perspectives, an inclusive culture, and equitable opportunities, we are connecting leaders, advancing associations. Access the 2025 Inclusion Calendar.
Scammers, Spammers & Phishing - Bleh
GSAE will never, ever ask you to buy gift cards or transfer money among our Board members, volunteers, or staff. We do not use third parties to sell our hotel room blocks or offer membership lists. Call us at (404) 577-7850 if you have a question about an email.
We also urge you to train your staff to do the same – call and confirm authenticity if you are not expecting a proposal from a property or other service provider. Every employee should also have two-factor authentication on every single log-in. We regularly receive the "was this you?" message. Nine times of ten, it wasn't!
Have GSAE News to Share?
Please send job changes, member news, and press releases to Corrin at corrin "at" gsae.org by the second Monday of the month.
We understand your time is valuable, and we strive to make volunteer service convenient and rewarding. GSAE volunteers truly do the work of the organization. Please send an email to Wendy at wendy "at" gsae.org if you are interested in learning more about 2025 committee and SIG leadership opportunities.
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- GSAE members have a code in the Member Offers tab of your profile.
- CRAM course fees are based on current/previous attendance, so no discount code is needed.
- Other CAE course options are available online.
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GSAE is seeking members interested in sharing effective practices, compelling case studies, and pilot programs. Have another story idea? Contact Wendy at wendy "at" gsae.org if you are interested in contributing to our community knowledge.
- Winter 2025 – Associations & Food Safety
- Spring 2025 – The State of Association Meetings, Post Pandemic Progress
- Summer 2025 – Managing Up – Integrating the Younger Generation into Leadership Roles
- Fall 2025 – Association Management Companies: Adapting to What Associations Need Now
- Also seeking guest columnists – 700–1,200 words, anytime.
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Explore GSAE's entirely FREE library of downloadable content, including white papers, guides, infographics, case studies, industry analysis, and so much more! Consider this your one-stop shop when looking for current topics you need to learn about that are influencing our entire industry.
Current topics include:
- An Executive Director's Guide: Building Board Confidence and Mastering Nonprofit Financials, Chazin & Company
- How to Integrate Social Media Into Your Member Engagement & Recruitment Strategy, Lead Marvels Inc.
- How to Choose the Right LMS for Your Association, D2L
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Did you know our Career Headquarters links to ASAE's national site? **And** if you buy a posting through us, GSAE gets a royalty payment to support the Society's programming. Check out the Careers section at the bottom of this e-newsletter for the latest Georgia postings.
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Mark your calendars to join ASAE in person on Tuesday, March 25–Wednesday, March 26, in Washington, DC, for ASAE’s annual Legislative Fly In. Next year promises to be eventful, particularly with significant tax reform on the legislative agenda due to trillions of dollars in tax breaks created by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expiring in 2025. Mary Kate Cunningham, CAE, outlines some concerns in the latest issue of Associations Now online.
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With recent tropical systems impacting our area, are you or your member organizations concerned about what employers should do to prepare for hurricanes and other workplace disasters? Contact Terri Stewart at fpatlanta "at" fisherphillips.com for a complimentary copy of an article covering this courtesy of your GSAE membership.
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December 9-10 2024
Lake Lanier Islands
7000 Lanier Islands Parkway
Buford, GA 30518
The Group Sales Symposium is an educational and networking event for all meetings/convention sales professionals: attendees include destination marketing organization group sales teams, hotel and lodging sales professionals, and group attractions, event facilities and conference center sales associates.
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Association Laboratory is the leading source of sector research on the association industry. Released on Oct. 24, you can visit the Looking Forward Dashboard to review the results, customize the data to your needs, and download what you need to inform your association's conversations. Current studies include the following:
- Looking Forward Impact – the nation's leading environmental scan of the association sector.
- Looking Forward Solutions – assessment and trending of more than 135 association strategies
- Looking Forward DEI – the most comprehensive research on the state of DEI in associations.
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Webinars, Podcasts & Blogs from Around the Web
GSAE compiles a compendium of podcasts, blogs, and resources from association land that we think will help you be better at your job. Includes new episodes from Rogue Tulips, TSAE, ISAE, OSAP and more. Follow, listen, and learn!
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- Recordings of livestreamed and virtual meetings are available on our GSAE1917 YouTube Channel through GSAEtv, including the recent Abit Massey Lecture Series.
- GSAE's Shared Interest Groups (SIGs) are complimentary, self-directed groups of GSAE members that focus on a particular area of interest. Learn more about Shared Interest Group (SIG) opportunities and join through your member profile or send an email to GSAE.
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Supplier Council Cmte. Meeting | Updates | 2:30 - 3:00 pm
