By Vice President Devon Possanza, CMP
At Easter Associates, our dedication to professional development is vital to our operations and success. Keeping up with industry advancements and continuously improving our skills are top priorities for our team. Here’s how we cultivate a culture of learning and adaptation that benefits both our staff and the associations we serve.
Adapting to Technological Advances
As the pandemic accelerated the shift to online environments, we at Easter Associates quickly recognized the need to adapt our event management strategies to digital platforms. This wasn’t just about survival; it was about excelling in a transformed world. I personally committed to mastering the new technologies reshaping our industry. This deep dive into digital tools was crucial for maintaining the quality of our services and has now become a fundamental part of our operational toolkit, enabling us to serve our clients with greater efficiency and creativity.
The Impact of Certification and Continued Education
In our commitment to excellence, both our Vice President, Amy Sales, CMP, and I have pursued the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credential, globally recognized as a badge of excellence in the events industry. Administered by the Events Industry Council and Meeting Professionals International, this certification demands a blend of professional experience, education, and a rigorous exam. To support our pursuit of this and other professional qualifications, Easter Associates covers the costs for exams and study materials. This not only shows our commitment to the professional development of our staff but also motivates us to seek new learning opportunities, ensuring we adopt the most current and effective practices in our work. Pursuing the CMP broadened my understanding of event planning, introducing innovative strategies that have significantly improved our service delivery.
Professional Engagement and Networking
Easter Associates is deeply committed to the betterment of the entire association community, a commitment we demonstrate by offering all staff memberships in the Virginia Society of Association Executives (VSAE). Active participation in VSAE, including serving on boards and engaging with the community, significantly enhances our professional development.
Amy Sales, a member of the VSAE board, deepens this involvement by providing us with access to specialized training and unique insights. Participating in the board gives us a member’s perspective and equips us with tools and processes for effective governance.
In addition to facilitating board service, Easter also supports our staff by funding tuition for continuing education programs and allowing time away to attend industry conferences. For instance, I had the honor of speaking at the 2023 VSAE Expo, and Amy recently moderated a panel at the 2024 AMC Summit.
Participating in these events not only helps us grow our professional networks but also brings us valuable speaking experience, making us more relatable to our members. The support from Easter for these educational opportunities is invaluable, as they enable us to both see and share best practices within our own associations.
Commitment to Excellence
Our commitment to professional development at Easter Associates is not just about enhancing individual skills; it’s about elevating the entire team to provide unparalleled service in association management. By investing in continued learning and staying ahead of industry trends, we ensure that our team is not only well-prepared but also leading the way in innovation and best practices. If your association is seeking a partner that values growth and excellence, we invite you to experience the difference with Easter Associates. Join us in shaping the future of association management, where expertise and continuous improvement drive success.