As NYSAE kicks off a new fiscal year, I am honored and humbled that you have elected me to serve as your chair for the next two years.  I have big shoes to fill.  When Charles Riotto stepped down as chair last month, he led a Board that pivoted a one-hundred-year-old organization to one poised to thrive in a very different world. Who knew that 2020 would bring us so much social disruption? Now more than ever we need to come together as professionals.

NYSAE has come a long way. We have active and engaged members. We grew this past year in membership, in programming and in defining a more inclusive professional home for association leaders and partners across the tristate region.  And there is much more to be done.

This next year will be filled with opportunities for NYSAE.  When our new Board meets in a few weeks we will be focusing on the organization’s priorities, strategic approach and themes for the coming year. After that, we will host a meeting of committee chairs to flesh out these new strategies, exchange ideas, and build collaboration.

We live in challenging times. Times that demand action from the associations we represent.  Whether that is redefining the association workplace post pandemic or confronting racism in the communities we represent, NYSAE welcomes the input of all our members in helping us develop programming and resources for associations as they confront the challenges and opportunities for change that we face. 

Associations succeed on the strength of their leaders.  That’s you! We want to build NYSAE into your professional home as you navigate the changing world we live in. Our educational sessions and our networking opportunities can help you make decisions about business strategy, inclusiveness, the culture of your organization, staff empowerment, governance and so much more. Through our programs and the members you meet we will all become better association professionals and stronger leaders. 

The good news?  NYSAE is here for you.  If you are a member get more involved.  If you are not a member join now.  Become part of a network of resources and build relationships along the way.  

Most importantly, let us hear from you.  What do you need NYSAE to be?  We have strong roots that go back 100 years and we are poised to branch out in new directions.  What should that look like? How can we help you become a stronger professional? Contact us.

Joanne Barry CAE 

Chair, NYSAE

CEO and Executive Director,

New York State Society of CPA's