What’s CO-ing On?
Investing in the Future Associations North created a slogan for 2021 to remain “nimble yet impactful” and identified key areas of focus of execution. In a year where we pivoted from plan A or (even B), we are celebrating the successes and lessons learned this past year and look to 2022 as a year of transition, investment and value creation. As we near the end of 2021, we are proud to say we have kept a keen focus on organizational success this year and beyond by providing timely resources to meet the changing needs of members and creating opportunities for members to engage and connect. The past 18+ months have taught us that change is constant and our jobs continually evolve, but what remains is our passion to make a difference and dedication to Moving Professionals Forward. In September, the Associations North leadership team and Board of Directors met for a strategic planning refresh with Mary Kay Delvo, INspiring SIGHT, to identify key priorities and direction for 2022. We learned from stakeholder feedback that our members count on Associations North for connections, community and all things associations. Four priorities were identified to gain understanding and innovate for the future. Through the forethought of the board and leadership, Associations North will continue to show we are listening, transitioning and have a plan for relevancy. 2022 will be a year of transition, investment and value creation. The following strategic priorities were established with the best interest of Associations North and our members in mind:
Thought Leadership Develop members into stronger leaders by transforming learning opportunities into knowledge sharing experiences. Expand our cohort model to support additional segments of Associations North membership, including small association CEOs, emerging leaders, meeting planners, membership and equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) professionals. Continue to experiment and reimagine educational opportunities including NFusion Conference, Leadership Retreat and more.
Community + Purposeful Content Increase value for members through consistent content and resources unique to the needs of association professionals. Curate meaningful connections and engagement via a new online community platform to connect, collaborate and provide meaningful content. Provide worthwhile social opportunities to reconnect, share and build relationships. Research + Sustainability Associations North is committed to listening and gaining further understanding of member needs, value creation and strengthening our partnership with allied members. In 2022, Associations North will take an environmental scan to dig deeper into member needs. Board + Staff Development Continuous board and staff development to continue to move steadfastly towards a strategy driven organization. Associations North leadership looks to expand key leadership skills, plan for future growth and practice behaviors to adopt EDI as a mindset. We look forward to seeing you in 2022. Engage with us through new cohort models, connect via thought leadership opportunities, join a shared member online community experience, dive into content and reconnect with your peers at reimagined conferences and social events. We learned you can’t predict the future, but you sure can have fun creating it! Thank you for your support, dedication, and commitment to the association community. We tell everyone, and we mean it - we have the best members! Thank you for being the lifeblood of our organization and lighting the passion within us each day. Cheers to 2021 and well wishes for a prosperous 2022!
Co-Directors, Associations North
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