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Dallas Fort Worth Association Executives

Meet Kristine Metter, DFWAE’s Association Day Keynote Speaker

We’re looking forward to seeing you at A-Day on April 25! We thought it would be fun to check in with Kristine Metter, our keynote speaker, on what she will be addressing during her presentation. She gives us a preview below. If you’re interested in being a part of Metter’s keynote, there is a call for information below. Be sure to check out everything, and more importantly, plan to join us to hear her in person by coming to A-Day!

DFWAE: Kristine, we're looking forward to your keynote presentation at Association Day on April 25! We know you have 30 years of experience working with associations and nonprofits. How has your experience helped you adapt to all of the changes you've seen for associations since the pandemic?

Kristine Metter: Over the years, I worked for a variety of professional societies and trade associations, providing leadership for membership development, event strategy, governance, and non-dues revenue. That broad background has enabled me to see how effective associations operate on a daily basis. 

While that background provided a strong foundation, what really prepared me for the disruption of the last two years was my practice of foresight and futures-thinking, which includes constantly scanning the environment and listening for weak signals that you then synthesize and interpret for your situation. By looking at multiple possible scenarios and preparing contingency plans, you are better equipped to adapt to unexpected events. 

When you combine foresight with a mission focus and an agile mindset, you are in a terrific position to think broadly about who you serve and how you can meet your constituents’ evolving needs. That powerful combination provides you with the tools to go beyond surviving to thriving. 

DFWAE: It may be easy for association professionals to get discouraged because this is certainly a tough climate to deliver value with some of the challenges you'll be speaking about in your keynote (Great Resignation, generational expectations, etc.) What do you hope to accomplish through your keynote that will set up association professionals – representing all departments – for success?

Kristine Metter: You are right that this can be a discouraging time. We are all tired and struggling to maintain our resilience. It is clear that member and constituent needs are different today than they were two years ago. Members increasingly are demanding a higher return on their investment (both dollars and time).

When we gather together on April 25, I plan to provide insights into why adopting a foresight mindset helps associations make better future-oriented decisions today and encourage everyone to embed the practice throughout their association. 

We’ll explore the fundamentals of foresight and provide a framework for why foresight is a leadership competency. We’ll then apply these principles by looking at change scenarios and the related consequences – both expected and unexpected – that could impact how you run your association as well as implications for your members’ professions and industries. 

I want to acknowledge to everyone that change is hard. I get that. We have an innate resistance to change and innovation, but we can drive through that barrier with small steps and patience and persistence. In time, the practice of foresight and futures-thinking will become more comfortable and natural. This opening keynote will provide you with fresh ideas and perspectives that you can carry through the rest of the day and into the coming weeks and months.

DFWAE: For those who are on the fence about attending Association Day and hearing your address, what would you like to share with them about why they need to be at the Irving Convention Center on April 25?

Kristine Metter: Now is an important time for association professionals to share what they’ve learned over the past two years. New norms and best practices are emerging every day. We’re all experimenting, testing, and adapting. By leaning on each other, we can all rise together to serve our members and constituents better.

I look forward to meeting association professionals from across the Dallas metropolitan area and hearing how you are innovating and thriving. And while we’re talking about experiences, I’m seeking real life situations of how you used foresight, scenario planning, or contingency plans to help you through disruption. If you have an experience to share, please contact me at [email protected].

DFWAE: Anything else you'd like to share or add that attendees should keep in mind prior to hearing your address? Any prep or thought work they need to do?

Kristine Metter: One common misperception about foresight and futures thinking is that it is about predictions. Rather, it is about forecasts and includes some uncertainty. Foresight looks at multiple possible futures, connects the dots, and enables you to take steps today to drive your organization toward a preferred future. 

The University of Houston offers a foresight certificate program. They define foresight as “the multi-disciplinary study of change and its implications in the context of the future. It synthesizes insights from a wide variety of fields including economics, engineering, sociology, politics, systems theory, creativity, community building, and so on. Foresight is not about predicting ‘THE’ future, but rather about uncovering a range of plausible alternative futures, and then identifying the indicators that suggest the various ways the future is unfolding.

Some of the most common uses of foresight in organizations are to help them come up with more creative and innovative offerings, to better understand and anticipate the future needs of their customers or clients, or to craft strategy. Foresight is also used in government agencies to develop policies and plans informed by a future perspective. Associations often study the future to help their member organizations anticipate and prepare for the future. We all have an interest in the future, so foresight is helpful across wide range of activities and institutions.”

For anyone who wants to see how foresight is being implemented in the association community, the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) has an evidence-based research initiative and related set of tools. Their ForesightWorks program includes a User’s Guide and a set of 50 drivers of change that include forecasts, data points, and strategic insights to guide association executives through a wide range of topics.

Register for Association Day
 

2026 Association Day – HOTEL/TRAVEL

. . .

Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine Conference Center
  

Great Wolf Lodge
100 Great Wolf Drive
Grapevine, TX  76051

Guest room rates are $148.99

Code to make reservations on the website is – 2604DFWA

Register here.

 

Parking:

Complimentary self parking for all DFWAE Attendees. Please grab a ticket upon entry, and bring to the registration table to be validated.
 

The Season of In Between

By Cathey Wise, CAE

I was the executive director of a thriving 19,000 member association.

Until I wasn’t. I served a noble mission for 7+ years.

Until I didn’t.

Association staff know we can be in a vulnerable position serving the will of ever-changing Boards. But when the Board wants to go in another direction and you are now looking for your next mission to serve, it’s a kick in the gut.

I’ve defined this career gap as the “season of in between.” It’s a time for reflection, introspection, and catching up.

It feels great and sucks a lot -- all at the same time.

Here are a few things that might be helpful if you face a similar season:

Identity

As professionals, we tend to align ourselves with our work and its noble mission. We find power in our work and it can define our personal identity. Is this a healthy perspective? Probably not. For me, it’s true nonetheless.

When I meet someone new, they ask, “What do you do?” I used to stumble and feel inadequate. Now I say, “I’m in the season of in between looking for a noble mission to serve.” Do I get puzzled looks? Yep! And, I use this as an opportunity to connect and network.

What’s Next?

Realizing what I WANT to do, as well as what I do NOT want to do has tremendous value. Make a list of what you do not want to do. It’s an anxiety-reducing exercise and can get you one step closer to what you want to do.

Feel It and Let it Go

When this happened to me, I allowed myself two days to lick my wounds. Why? If I did not set a limit, I may not have gotten out of bed. While I’m still obsessing over what ifs, I’m striving to look forward. This is a work in progress.

Faith

Strengthening my faith has been my foundation of this season. Slowing down, looking forward and looking up have kept me grounded and reduced my anxiety. I encourage you to connect with your higher power to provide peace and clarity.

Approach This Season Like A Job

Each day, I look for opportunities and connections. Set the alarm, get dressed and tackle the day!

Connect or Reconnect

Have you been planning to visit loved ones, but could not align a trip with your schedule? Plan almost-free trips. For us, we packed a car and headed to friends eager to host us in their homes. While we don’t have the financial confidence to hop on a plane, we are making the most of a few tanks of gas and free places to stay.

Dig deeper with your professional tribe to connect and grow. For me, DFWAE is where I’m making deeper connections. Maybe DFWAE could be for you too?

Projects and To-Do's

I finally cleaned the attic and decluttered our home resulting in a huge yard sale and many donated items. This felt GREAT and made me feel like I accomplished something.

Connect Your Interest with Learning

DEI is an area of interest where I want to grow. I’m exploring courses and certifications to align interests with professional learning. Be a student!

This Season Can Be More than Work

This “season of in between” transcends more than work. It can be transitions in personal relationships, young children, empty nesting, or caring for parents. Or loss brought on by COVID. This season can be unexpected or planned. While it can look different for each of us, it can pack a similar punch. Identify and name this season and what it means for you. It can help you move forward.

Self Care and Self Compassion are Not Just Buzzwords

I used to be an avid reader. I am now reading a book FOR LEISURE! I'm reading for joy and loving it! Be kind to yourself and make sure your self-talk is positive and productive. I’m mindful of my “self talk” to ensure a healthier mental space. Take care of yourself during this season, and let others take care of you too.

Confession

I’m still figuring it out. Some days I move forward and other days I stall. With that said, I am confident that my next opportunity will be fulfilling and my contributions will be valued. I want to maximize this season to better myself, to connect with my beloveds and to remind myself what’s really important.

I don’t wish any of you a season of in between. But if you find yourself in one, you will be OK and might even be stronger because of it. And I’m here as a new friend and someone you can talk to as we figure it out together.

Wanna talk? Hit me up on DFWAEngage!
 

Over the past two years, the DFWAE IDEA Committee has created a DEI Resource Portal to foster an inclusive and supportive environment by providing association professionals with valuable resources, tools, and information.  We strive to empower association professionals and organizations to cultivate diversity, ensure equity, and celebrate inclusion through accessible and impactful guidance. This work is ongoing, so check back for updates and additional resources. We welcome your feedback, questions and suggestions at [email protected].

 

Background reading/videos:

Enhancing_Diversity.pdf

This is a summary of ASAE’s research of various associations’ attempts at creating more diversity within their organizations; what worked; what didn’t work; and factors that play into an organization’s ability to become more diverse, equitable and inclusive.

Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion across the organizational structure is a strategic priority of DFWAE. All volunteer leaders are encouraged to utilize this Quick Tips checklist to guide their efforts.

    1. https://www.asaecenter.org/resources/articles/an_magazine/2020/winter/is-bias-affecting-how-you-lead

This article addresses unconscious biases and how it affects you as a leader. 

    1. https://www.asaecenter.org/publications/107422-association-inclusion-index 

This is an Organizational Assessment tool to help you determine your organization’s diversity and inclusion practices and objectives against validated effective practices.

    1. https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/takeatest.html

This is a “Implicit Association Test” Test to help us become aware and better address our own personal biases.

    1. https://www.hrc.org/resources/glossary-of-terms


Glossary of terms commonly used to identify individuals

    1. https://www.ceoaction.com/resources/videos/

Collection of videos addressing various “Blind Spots” we may have in regards to others.

    1. https://35xs6u1zhs1u1p3cy926rkn4-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Recruiting-Minority-Volunteers-NCASAA.pdf

This article is provided by NCASAA, and offers tips on how to recruit minority volunteers.

    1. https://www.linkedin.com/learning/unconscious-bias/

Short video series delving into what “Unconscious Bias” is, how to identify it, and what steps to take to be more open minded in our decision making.

    1. http://textstotable.com/

A frank discussion between four of our Association CEO colleagues who have had to lead through the recent racial upheaval, sharing their experiences on what it feels like as a black leader; how the response of others has felt; what leaders, white or black, should do as leaders. 

    1. https://www.google.com/books/edition/White_Fragility/ZfQ3DwAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&printsec=frontcover

Book written to address why it’s hard for white people to have the conversation of racism, and why it’s necessary for those truly invested in societal change.

    1. https://www.amazon.com/Memo-Women-Color-Secure-Table-ebook/dp/B07L2WRVSW

An eBook to assist women of color in getting “a seat at the table” in the workforce.

    1. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-uncomfortable-truth/id1498323248

A series of podcasts addressing the questions we should all be asking about race and racism in America, but never want to talk about

    1. https://betterallies.com/

Everyday actions to create inclusive, engaging workplaces.

    1. https://www.amazon.com/Im-Not-Yelling-Navigating-Workplace/dp/1684810736

A book that sheds light on common challenges Black women face in the workplace.

 

LinkedIn Thought Leaders:

Elizabeth Leiba
Shereen Daniels
Karen Catlin
Raven Solomon
Chris Amstrong, CDE, CMF, ACC
Dr.Stephanie M. Kirkland
Tara Jaye (Centeio) Frank
Minda Harts
Crystle Johnson, MBA-HRM
Maisha Gray-Diggs, PhD 

 FY23-24 IDEA Committee Members:

Asha Desai (Chairperson)
Maurice Norris, MPA  (Board Liaison)
Shasta Foy, CAE (President-Elect)
Mark Jones, CAE
Andrew Crim, M.Ed., CHCP
Janet Kane, CAE
Meda Merritt

  

 
 

2026 Association Day – EDUCATION

. .

Approved for 4.0 CAE Hours

KEYNOTE SESSION

Keynote Speaker Emily Jones

EMILY JONES
Sports Journalist & Media Personality

"Knowing Your Value: Lessons Learned on Camera, Off the Field, and Along the Way"
From a small-town girl with network dreams to three decades in sports media, this talk traces a career built on relationships, resilience, and reinvention. Through wins, mistakes, motherhood, and moments that changed everything, you’ll hear five hard-earned takeaways about opportunity, adaptability, and knowing your value - plus proof that you don’t have to have it all figured out to build a meaningful life and career.

MORNING BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Membership Dues Aren’t Enough: The Revenue Shift Associations Can’t Afford to Ignore
Speaker: Bill Sheehan, Global Head, Association Strategy – D2L
Membership dues alone can’t sustain associations in today’s fast-changing landscape. Demand for education, training, and credentialing is surging, creating a huge revenue opportunity. This session explores how associations can monetize learning, scale programs, engage members, and diversify revenue, unlocking growth and relevance while staying true to their mission.

Say Less, Mean More: Member-Centered Messaging They’ll Pay Attention To
Speaker: Anh Nguyen, Chief Brand Amplifier – Amplified Marketing
Association leaders face a crowded communications landscape more channels, more demands, and more pressure to show member value, often with lean teams. This session helps executives move beyond doing more and focus on clarity and intention in their messaging. Attendees will learn how to define what truly matters, align marketing and engagement efforts, and use communication as a leadership tool. The result is stronger trust, clearer value, and content people actually pay attention to.

Click to Convention Floor: Association Research Insights on Event Attendance
Speaker: Rich Vallaster, CEM, QAS, AAiP, Sr. Director of Industry Relations and Community Engagement – Personify
Fresh research from 750+ association professionals confirms what many suspect: members want to attend events but often can’t. The real barriers aren’t interest or loyalty, but workload, approvals, and budgets. This candid, data-driven session reveals the gap between perceived and actual attendance drivers, why knowing your membership isn’t enough, and how to rethink value narratives, build ROI tools for employer approval, and audit hidden access barriers to close the intent-to-attendance gap.

Boomer to Zoomer: Making Generational Gaps Work for You
Speaker: Rebecca Achurch, PgMP, PMP, CSM, CAE, Founder/CEO – Achurch Consulting
Your organization spans Baby Boomers to Gen Z, each bringing different technology expectations and strengths. What if those differences were your strategic advantage? This session reframes generational gaps as assets that propel technology to change forward. Learn how to build balanced tech teams leveraging diverse perspectives, design change strategies honoring different working styles, and create environments where multi-generational teams thrive during digital transformation.

AFTERNOON BREAKOUT SESSIONS

How AI is Exposing Cracks in the Association Operating Model
Speaker: Chris Vaughan, PhD, Chief Strategy Officer – Sequence Consulting
AI isn’t failing in associations because the technology is too new. It’s failing because most operating models weren’t built for their speed, scale, or unpredictability. In this session, Chris Vaughan, PhD. reframes the AI conversation away from tools and trends, and toward how work gets done. He explores why traditional workflows - linear, approval-heavy, and risk-averse - break under the weight of AI-driven demands.

Care as Currency: The Science of Transforming Member Connections into Lasting Loyalty
Speaker: Jamie Shibley, CEO – The Expressory
Today’s association members crave connection and trust, but most engagement remains transactional and digital. Based on the Strategic Engagement Index research, Jamie Shibley reveals how care is the new competitive edge. Leaders can replace outdated "know, like, trust" models with science-based engagement. Attendees will leave with a blueprint to deepen loyalty, drive referrals, and measure ROI blending psychology with strategy for impactful, legacy-building results.

Becoming an Event Architect: Creating Innovative Experiences for Association Meeting Planners
Speaker: Lydia Vara-Sebany, Event Coordinator – Visit Frisco
The standard event playbook of repetitive ballroom seminars is no longer enough to drive registration or member engagement. To thrive in the meetings industry, association executives must transition from being logistics managers to experience architects.

Find Your Lane: The Power of Influence in Your Association
Speaker: Bruce Waller, CRP, PHR, SHRM-CP, Vice President Corporate Relocation – The Armstrong Company
In today’s fast-paced business and talent landscape, influence is the currency of change. Many business and association professionals struggle to gain executive and board-level buy-in. In this practical session, business and sales leader Bruce Waller shares five proven strategies to build trust, gain alignment, and move ideas forward, equipping participants to influence with confidence and turn initiatives into measurable impact.

 

 

 
 
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