CEO Forum Education

Opening Session

Looking Toward the 2030s and Beyond: Challenging Questions for Association Boards and CEOs 

Executive Advisor, Foresight First LLC 

With the midpoint of The Turbulent Twenties just about 300 days away and the 2030s on the horizon, what questions do association boards and CEOs need to ask themselves, each other, and their stakeholders? This provocative, future-focused conversation will challenge participants to confront their orthodox beliefs, grapple with emerging dilemmas, and reframe their perspectives on what it will take for associations to thrive in an uncertain future. 

• What are the “root cause” orthodox beliefs that associations must work to overcome? 
• What are this decade’s emerging issues and challenges about which association CEOs are most concerned? 
• How can association CEOs and their boards navigate the rest of The Turbulent Twenties and prepare for The Threatening Thirties? 

General Session

Connecting with Conquerors 

Stevie Dawn Carter, Stevie Dawn Inspires, LLC   

As leaders you are constantly and consistently overcoming obstacles and solving problems, but sometimes you could use a friend to call. In this session, we will be doing focused networking allowing you to make connections with multiple people at the summit so your experience today can continue into the year. Everyone can use a friend in their corner and this is the place to find someone who knows the struggles and has the advice you need at the moment you need it. 

General Session

Ask the Association Attorney: Everything You Need to Know  

Managing Partner, Tenenbaum Law Group PLLC 

From one the country’s most experienced and notable association attorneys, come armed with your questions and curiosity as we explore the most pressing legal issues facing associations these days.  

In a Q&A-driven format, ask our speaker about topics such as: 

• Federal tax exemption and UBIT 
• Corporate governance, Bylaws, conflicts of interest, and board challenges 
• Discrimination, sexual harassment, and other employment-related risks 
• Vendor, independent contractor, and other contracts 
• Meeting contract cancellation, postponement, and negotiation strategies 
• Mitigating liability risk for in-person meetings and office re-openings 
• Copyright and trademark protection, licensing, and infringement 
• Employees vs. independent contractors 
• Exempt vs. non-exempt employees 
• Association CEO employment contracts 
• Fundraising regulation and commercial co-ventures 
• Association antitrust risks 
• Member codes of ethics and codes of conduct 
• Lobbying and political activity regulation 
• Affiliates, subsidiaries, and chapters 
• Mergers and joint ventures 
• When and how to engage outside legal counsel 

Panel Discussion

Navigating the Boardroom: From Building Bridges to Strategic Sights 

Join a dynamic panel of your peers, CEOs, and Executive Directors of Associations, as they tackle the latest trends and evergreen challenges in board governance. This interactive session will be your compass, guiding you through the intricate landscape of building strong relationships, maximizing board effectiveness, and steering your organization towards strategic triumphs. 

Uncover the secrets to fostering trust and productive partnerships with your board members, including the incoming chair.  Get practical advice on negotiating your contract effectively, ensuring clarity on roles, responsibilities, and compensation. Explore different committee structures and their impact on board effectiveness. Learn to translate abstract goals into concrete initiatives and leverage your board's expertise for greater impact.  

You will leave this session equipped with practical strategies, renewed confidence, and a network of peers who understand the unique challenges of board governance.

Panel Discussion

HR Hot Seat: Attracting, Engaging, and Retaining Talent in the Evolving Workplace 

Are you ready to revolutionize your HR strategy and build a thriving workplace culture in the face of today's talent challenges? Join a dynamic panel of your peers for an interactive session that will equip you with insights and best practices to attract, engage, and retain top talent. Uncover innovative strategies to stand out in the competitive talent pool. Navigate the new normal of remote and hybrid work with confidence. Discover tips for building a culture of trust, fostering collaboration, and maximizing productivity in a distributed workforce. Talk retention strategies to create a culture that fosters employee loyalty, growth, and satisfaction. This session will help you connect with like-minded leaders and to learn from your peers' experiences, share challenges, and gain valuable insights.

Roundtable Discussion

Corner Office Conversations LIVE!   

Executive Director, TSAE

Corner Office Conversations provides a touchpoint for CEOs and Executive Directors offering a vibrant hub of peer support and expert guidance. Harness the collective wisdom of fellow leaders in a safe, confidential space. Steven Stout will engage attendees in candid, peer-facilitated discussions tailored to the unique pressures and opportunities faced by CEOs and EDs. This session will offer fresh perspectives on your most pressing leadership challenges, from talent management and strategic innovation to navigating complex workplace shifts and fostering a thriving organizational culture. Join us and forge valuable connections with like-minded executives, building a trusted network of mutual support and ongoing learning.