In the latest episode of Better by Association, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert welcome Lindsay Konlande, executive director of IREM Houston and TSAE’s 2026 Association Professional of the Year, for a conversation about leadership, resilience and finding her place in the association community.

Konlande shares how she “fell into” association management and eventually returned to IREM Houston, where she stepped into the top leadership role amid governance, financial and operational challenges. She discusses prioritizing what matters most, using transparency to build trust with volunteer leaders, navigating imposter syndrome and leading the organization through its first strategic planning process.

Konlande also shares the leadership values that guide her, including authenticity, curiosity and getting comfortable with discomfort, why she considers associations “invisible heroes,” and how a simple “good job folder” helps her combat burnout.

Listen to the latest episode of Better by Association

Better by Association is produced by Association Briefings.

This fast-paced, self-driven session will delve into the critical domains of association management, offering practical insights and strategies to help you prepare for the CAE exam. You'll gain a solid understanding of the key knowledge areas essential for effective leadership in the association profession at your own pace. 

Whether you're just beginning your CAE journey or seeking a focused refresher, this crash course will equip you with the tools and confidence you need to succeed.

What You Will Learn:

• Understand the foundational principles of effective association management across key functional areas.
• Apply strategic thinking and leadership skills to address complex challenges facing associations.
• Demonstrate an understanding of financial stewardship and resource management within the nonprofit context.
• Develop and implement strategies for building and engaging a thriving membership community.
• Navigate the legal, ethical, and regulatory landscape impacting association operations.

Pricing:

3.5 CAE Credits

Learn More & Register

Created in partnership with:

Led by an experienced CAE professional, this course guides participants through the eight domains of association management while providing opportunities to discuss key concepts, work through sample exam questions, and connect with peers who are also preparing for the exam.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the knowledge areas covered on the CAE exam, receive valuable study resources, and have the opportunity to ask questions throughout the course. Audio recordings of sessions are also available for additional review.

The Fall 2026 CAE Study Course will take place September 23 - November 11 on Wednesdays from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. via Zoom.

Study Course Includes:

• Kick-off orientation to learn more about the CAE exam process
• Eight weekly Zoom meetings covering the eight domains of association management
• Review of study questions with experienced CAEs and peers
• Recordings of meetings available for additional review
• Access to digital flashcards
• 18 CAE Hours Anticipated

Study Course Fees:

Register today and take the next step toward earning your CAE credential!

CAE CRASH COURSE

Learning Objectives:

• Understand and apply fundamental operational practices in key association areas.
• Develop basic strategies for member engagement, event management, and advocacy.
• Recognize and address core legal and ethical considerations in association work.
• Grasp the principles of strategic planning for association growth and development.

Attendees can purchase a discounted bundle of all eight programs or individual sessions. Each individual session is an hour of content.

*UPDATED* Association 101 Bundle

Fee: TSAE Member: $195 / Non-Member: $395
CAE hours: 8

Register 

On-Demand Individual Programs Included in Bundle

Fee (per program): TSAE Member: $45 / Non-Member: $75
CAE hour (per program): 1

• Meetings and Events: This session is designed to demystify association events, share effective networking techniques, and unveil strategies to enhance the overall engagement of your attendees. 
• Membership Recruitment and Retention: This session will explore ways to create valuable member experiences and help you discover strategies that increase member engagement and influence renewals. 
• Finance: This session will provide you with a thorough grasp of fundamental principles, concepts, and practical skills that form the foundation of association finances. 
• Working With Volunteers: This session explores methods associations use to engage working effectively with volunteers. 
• Legal Considerations in Association Management: This presentation will help you discover key rules and laws concerning board and association governance and risk management. 
• Strategic Planning: This session will provide professionals with a baseline understanding of strategic planning at an association. 
• Government Affairs: This session focuses on fundamentals from developing a legislative agenda and leveraging grassroots to building coalitions and tracking legislation to influencing the outcome of issues that affect your members. 
• Ethical Decision-Making and the Association Professional: This presentation will provide a foundation of pertinent ethical principles, discuss a decision-making framework for ethical dilemmas, and engage the learner in assessing case studies related to the professional’s responsibility in context with association ethics.

Upcoming Dates:
 

August 20, 2026
9:00 - 9:15 AM
Virtual (Zoom)

Register

Each Peer Power-Up explores key pillars of association management, including Membership, Marketing and Communications, Meetings, Exhibits and Events, Sponsorship and Revenue Growth, DEIA, and Advocacy. There are no formal speakers — these sessions rely on the collective expertise of TSAE members to drive meaningful dialogue and actionable takeaways. Registrants are encouraged to submit questions or challenges in advance, helping shape breakout room discussions and ensuring conversations are relevant and impactful.

• Peer Power-Ups do not include a speaker and are fully peer-driven.
• Registrants may submit questions/challenges prior to the session.
• The Zoom link will be emailed no later than 3:00 PM the day before the program.
  If you do not receive it, please email TSAE staff.

July 24, 2026
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Virtual (Zoom)

Register Today!

Topics will rotate out depending on attendee roles, feedback, and popularity.

• Membership
• Marketing/Communications
• Meeting Planning/Education
• Miscellaneous/Open Discussion

Why Peer Power-Ups?

Exclusive Access: As a TSAE member, you gain exclusive access to these dynamic discussions, facilitated by industry experts and thought leaders.

Focused Learning: Dive deep into specific areas of association management with each session, exploring challenges, opportunities, and emerging trends.

Collaborative Environment: Forge valuable connections and foster meaningful collaborations with fellow association executives from across Texas.

Actionable Insights: Gain practical insights and actionable takeaways that you can implement immediately to drive success within your organization.

Virtual Convenience: Participate from the comfort of your home or office, eliminating the need for travel while maximizing your learning experience.

Products, services, experiences, gift baskets, anything that would excite a room full of association buyers is welcome. Donations are open to members, sponsors, exhibitors, partners, and friends of TSAE. 

Donors are recognized:

• In the printed conference program
• On screen throughout the event
• Across TSAE's social media channels
• In the live auction slide deck

Donations MUST BE received by September 5, 2026.

Donate

Special thanks to our Silent Auction Partner:

AUSTIN, Texas – December 3, 2025 — The Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE) and the Texas Travel Alliance (TTA) proudly announce the merger of their flagship women’s events — TSAE’s Women’s Summit and TTA’s Women in Travel Conference — to form a new, unified experience: LeadHERship Live: A Texas Women’s Conference.

This landmark collaboration brings together women from across associations, destinations, venues/attractions, and communities to connect, inspire, and lead with purpose. Designed to elevate women in leadership roles and those aspiring to make a greater impact, LeadHERship Live will debut in 2026 offering dynamic speakers, thought-provoking sessions, and invaluable networking opportunities.

“By combining the strengths of our two organizations and the loyal communities behind these programs, we’re creating something bigger than either of us could do alone,” said Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, Executive Director of TSAE. “LeadHERship Live represents the best of collaboration — a space where women across Texas can learn from each other, grow together, and lead boldly.”

Erika Boyd, President & CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, echoed the excitement: “'This partnership is about amplifying voices and creating opportunities for women to build larger networks and lead with confidence and vision. By uniting our communities, we’re building a platform that not only celebrates leadership but equips women across Texas to shape the future of our industries together.” .”

The inaugural LeadHERship Live: A Texas Women’s Conference will feature:
• Speakers from across business, hospitality, and nonprofit sectors
• Panel discussions focusing on leadership, personal development, and career advancement
• Networking events celebrating collaboration, mentorship, and community

More details, including registration and program announcements, will be released in the coming weeks.

For updates, visit www.tsae.org or www.texastravelalliance.org and follow @TSAE and @TexasTravelAlliance on social media.

About the Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE): TSAE is the professional organization for association executives and professionals in Texas, providing education, resources, and a strong community for those leading associations and nonprofits across the state. Learn more at www.tsae.org.

About the Texas Travel Alliance (TTA): TTA represents all segments of the Texas travel and tourism industry. The Alliance is dedicated to supporting, advocating for, and advancing the success of travel professionals who promote the Lone Star State as a premier destination. Learn more at www.texastravelalliance.org.

An experienced CAE professional leads the discussion as the group explores the eight (8) domains of association management and works through sample exam questions.

Participants can also receive audio recordings of the sessions. This Study Course is a great way to ask questions, find study partners, and earn 18 CAE hours.

Spring 2026 CAE Study Course:

• February 4 - April 15 (No Class on March 18, April 1)
• Wednesdays, 1:30 - 3:30 PM
• Zoom video conference

Register

Study Course Includes

• Kick-off orientation to learn more about the process
• 8 weekly Zoom meetings covering the 8 domains (Wednesday, 1:30 - 3:30 PM)
• Review of study questions with experienced CAEs and peers
• Recordings of meetings available
• Access to digital flashcards
• 18 CAE Hours Anticipated

Study Course Fees

January 16, 2025

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtual and free to TSAE members (CEO-only)
CAE Hour: 1

Register

The TSAE Board of Directors serves as the strategic brain trust for TSAE overseeing strategy as well as having a fiduciary responsibility to the organization. TSAE is looking for association professionals as well as affiliate (vendor) nominations. Self nominations are also welcome.

Submit Nomination

NOMINATION DEADLINE: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2025

TSAE's Board of Directors have quarterly (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter) Board Meetings every year usually alongside a TSAE signature event (CEO Forum, New Ideas, Celebration Luncheon) with one (1) Summer Board Retreat.

Each board term is for three years of service.

Please submit a potential candidate's name by clicking on the button above and TSAE will follow up with the candidate to gauge their interest in applying to serve and go through the formal nomination process. Each candidate will be reviewed by the TSAE Nominating Committee.

Panelists will receive a complimentary registration to the 2025 Summit in Allen, TX on February 11-12, 2025.

To submit interest in serving on a panel:

• Review the session descriptions and questions.
• Prepare your responses. 2-3 sentences minimally requested for each question.
• For a PDF version of the session descriptions, click here.

Submit Here

Deadline: Friday, December 20, 2024

Cultivating Authentic Leadership

Join us for a dynamic and inspiring panel discussion featuring leading women who are breaking barriers and redefining leadership. This session will delve into the power of authenticity, transparency, and vulnerability in leadership roles, and explore strategies for women to excel in the workplace.

Learning Objectives:

• Discover how to bring your true self to your leadership role and inspire others through genuine connection.
• Learn from experienced leaders as they share insights on navigating culture and advocating for equal opportunities.
• Identify challenges women in leadership face and learn techniques to advocate for yourself.

This session is designed to empower women to lead with confidence, influence, and integrity. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned executive, you'll gain valuable insights and practical tools to elevate your career and make a lasting impact.

Questions

1. What traits do you think make for an authentic leader?
2. What do you envision for the future of leadership?
3. Who is your north star—your role model—someone who helps provide a compass to being a better leader?
4. What role has mentorship played in your career? What advice would you give to women seeking mentors?
5. How have you personally dealt with imposter syndrome, and what advice would you give to others who may be struggling with it?
6. What is one specific action that attendees can take today to start leading more authentically and empowering others?
7. What are barriers that prevent you from leading authentically?

Blooming Balance: Wellness and Work-Life Harmony

In today's fast-paced world, it's more important than ever to prioritize your well-being and achieve a healthy work-life balance. Join us for a panel discussion that will explore practical strategies to reduce stress, enhance productivity, and cultivate a fulfilling life.

Learning Objectives:

• Discover essential self-care practices to nourish mind, body, and soul.
• Learn effective techniques to manage your time, set boundaries, and create a sustainable work-life rhythm.
• Explore stress-management strategies to cope with the demands of modern life and maintain your mental and emotional well-being.
• Gain insights into innovative solutions for seamlessly blending personal and professional responsibilities in our evolving world.

This session is designed to empower women to create a harmonious balance between their work and personal lives. Whether you're a working mom, a career-driven professional, or simply someone seeking to improve your overall well-being, you'll leave this session inspired and equipped with practical tools to thrive.

Questions

1. What does work-life balance mean to you, and how has your definition of it evolved over time?
2. How has stress impacted your personal and professional life, and what strategies have you used to manage it?
3. How has remote work impacted your work-life balance, and what strategies have you implemented to maintain a healthy routine?
4. What role does workplace flexibility play in achieving work-life harmony, and how can we advocate for more flexible work arrangements?
5. How do you set and maintain healthy boundaries between work and personal life, especially in a digital age?
6. What do you envision for the future of work-life balance, and what challenges and opportunities lie ahead?
7. What is one practical step that attendees can take today to improve their work-life balance and overall well-being?

Growing Your Influence: Leadership Beyond Titles

How do you inspire change, motivate teams, or persuade others, even without a formal leadership position? Join us for a panel discussion that will explore the art of influence and empower you to lead from any position.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how to cultivate strong, authentic connections with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Explore the persuasive communication to inspire and motivate others.
• Discover how to identify and harness your unique strengths to influence decision-making.
• Learn how to navigate complex organizational dynamics and build alliances.

This session will provide you with practical strategies to enhance your influence, gain respect, and achieve your goals, regardless of your title or position. Whether you're an emerging leader or a seasoned professional, you'll gain valuable insights to take your career to the next level.

Questions

1. What does it mean to be an influential leader without a formal title?
2. How have you built strong, authentic relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, and what advice would you give to others?
3. What role does listening play in influencing others, and what techniques do you use to truly understand others' perspectives?
4. How have you identified and leveraged your unique strengths to influence others and achieve your goals?
5. What strategies have you used to navigate complex organizational dynamics and build alliances?
6. How have you overcome resistance or challenges when trying to influence others?
7. What is one specific action that attendees can take today to start developing their influence skills and lead from any position?

Roots and Branches: Career Growth Across Generations

Join us for a dynamic panel discussion featuring experienced leaders from diverse generations to gain valuable insights into navigating today's complex business landscape. This session will explore essential leadership skills, career transition strategies, and the unique challenges and opportunities facing women in the workplace.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the trending issues in today’s constantly evolving workplace environment.
• Gain practical advice on making strategic career moves, overcoming obstacles, and seizing new opportunities.
• Benefit from the wisdom and experience of multiple generations of leaders as they share their insights on work-life balance, mentorship, and career advancement.

This session is designed to empower women to take charge of their careers and achieve their full potential.  You’ll leave inspired and equipped with the tools to succeed in today's competitive job market.

Questions

1. What generation do you identify?
2. How has the role of leadership evolved over the years, and what unique challenges and opportunities do leaders face today?
3. How are you keeping your skills up-to-date for today’s workplace demands? 
4. Tell us about a transition in your career. What did you learn?
5. What advice would you give to women who are considering a career change or transition?
6. What is one specific action that attendees can take today to advance their careers and become more effective leaders?
7. What are the pros/cons of being led by a different generation than yourself? How do you lead a different generation than yourself?

November 7, 2024
3:00 - 6:00 PM

Register

About TSAE Socials

TSAE Socials are industry networking events - join us for drinks and light bites as you network with fellow members and meet new friends. Registration is FREE and includes complimentary first few drinks on us and snacks. Take advantage of this great opportunity to invite a co-worker or friend who is not currently a member to join you there and see what TSAE is all about. We hope to see you there!

Sponsored by:

Join us for food, drinks, candy, costumes and a table decorating contest! Plus, fun and games for the whole family - should you choose to bring them, they are very welcome!

October 28, 2024
4:30 - 7:30 PM

Register

Join us for a fun & spooky time when our sponsors create festive tablescapes for exciting treats. Registration is FREE and includes sodas and snacks. Family members are very welcome! Take advantage of this great opportunity to invite a co-worker or friend who is not currently a member of TSAE to join us. We hope to see you there!

Expand your knowledge and expertise over your lunch hour!

October 16, 2024
11:30AM - 1:00 PM

Register

About the Program

Building a Community Through Thought Leadership

Michelle Ngome, Outreach Director, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Houston

Have you been told to work on your personal brand, but don’t want to do the social media dance? Trust me, I understand. Today, it is important for seasoned professionals and entrepreneurs to establish themselves as an expert. Thought leadership is a powerful tool for building strong communities. In this session, I will share with you how thought leadership contributes to the growth of your association.

Takeaways:

• Intentional storytelling makes an impact in your community and beyond
• Growing connections and building credibility
• The triad of influence that spurs growth

TSAE B&B

TSAE B&Bs provide a chance for newer members within our organization to connect and begin building your own network. Enjoy some delicious breakfast while connecting with new members, TSAE staff, and members of the TSAE Board of Directors followed by educational peer discussions on hot topics in our space.

October 16, 2024
9:00 - 10:30 AM

Register

TSAE B&Bs are geared towards those who have been a member for 5 years or less, providing a chance to connect with one another and begin building a network of peers. B&Bs are exclusively for TSAE members. They are complimentary and breakfast will be provided.

Questions? email info@tsae.org

TSAE and the Association Societies Alliance (ASA) have partnered with Gallagher to produce the 2024 Association Compensation and Benefits Survey.

We are now collecting information to produce this valuable resource and I hope we can count on your organization to participate. As a result, you will have access to a current and comprehensive tool to help your organization evaluate salaries and benefits using comprehensive state and national data. Organizations that complete the survey will receive a $100 discount when the study is released for purchase later this year.

The survey has two distinct sections, an Excel spreadsheet for the compensation data and an online form for the policy data. To participate:

1. Click here to download the compensation questionnaire. Save the spreadsheet to your computer and populate it with your organization's compensation information. Submit your completed compensation using the secure link in the file.
2. Click here to go to the online Policy/Benefits questionnaire.
   The online form does not need to be completed in one session, but it uses cookies to retain data, so cookies on your browser must be enabled and you must use the same computer.

    

Please take time to complete the survey thoroughly. Please return ith survey ASAP.

All data reported by individual associations will be kept strictly confidential. Only aggregate data (quartiles, medians, and averages) will be included in the final survey report, which will be released this fall. All participants will be given the opportunity to reserve a copy of the final report in October, which will be released as soon as it is available.

The TSAE and ASA appreciates your investment of time and effort in this important project. If you have any questions or need help completing the survey questionnaire, the survey staff at Gallagher will be happy to assist you. Please contact Thomas Cummins at Gallagher Surveys with any questions.

AUSTIN, TX – Tracy Tomson, CAE, has been awarded the prestigious Distinguished Life Member status by the Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE). This honor is bestowed upon members who have demonstrated distinguished service to TSAE and have been dedicated members for ten or more consecutive years. The nomination for this esteemed status is initiated by the TSAE Board of Directors and voted on by its members.

Tracy Tomson's professional journey is marked by her exceptional leadership and contributions to the association management field. She served as the Executive Director & CEO of the Restaurant Facility Management Association (RFMA) for 15 years, leading the organization to significant growth and establishing it as a key resource for professionals in the restaurant facility management industry. Tracy's strategic direction and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impact on RFMA and its members.

Before her tenure at RFMA, Tracy had a successful career in the radio industry, including five years as a promotion director with KLUV Radio in Dallas. Her innovative approach to promotions and audience engagement played a vital role in the station's success.

Tracy's dedication to the association community is further exemplified by her active involvement with TSAE. She served on the TSAE Board of Directors and was the Board Chair June 2019 – June 2020. Helping guide TSAE through the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020.  Her exemplary service and leadership have earned her the Distinguished Life Member status, recognizing her significant contributions and commitment to the association.

TSAE’s Executive Director, Steven J. Stout, FASAE, CAE, stated “Distinguished Life Membership is the highest honor within TSAE. This esteemed group makes up only 2% of our entire membership. Each of these individuals have given back to TSAE and the association community beyond the normal volunteer ask. The TSAE Board of Directors is excited to welcome Tracy into this group of industry key players that have all made a lasting mark on the profession of association management.”

Reflecting on this honor, Tracy said, “It is extremely humbling and also somewhat ironic to be recognized with an award for service to TSAE, when it was TSAE that served me so well during my career as an association executive. Thanks to Steven and the TSAE board of directors for this wonderful honor and for allowing this retiree to continue to serve.”

In her personal life, Tracy is married to her high school sweetheart and is an avid Texas Longhorn. She and her husband have three grown daughters, and she enjoys spending time with her family and exploring new adventures in retirement.

About TSAE

The Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE) is the leading organization for association professionals in Texas. TSAE provides education, networking, and advocacy to support the success of association executives and the organizations they serve.

View Change Details

The new structure includes the formation of three new officer positions: Board Development Officer, Finance Officer, and Foresight Officer to join the Board Chair, Chair-Elect, Immediate Past Chair, and Executive Director as ex-officio as the full Executive Committee.

Per TSAE Bylaws, TSAE members must be notified of the proposed changes 30 days before voting occurs. Voting members (identified in the bylaws as the Association Professional Category members) will receive an email on August 30 asking them to vote on the changes electronically by September 13. 

Look for voting details coming to your inbox soon!

Better Together Mentor Program

Applications for the program will be accepted until August 9, 2024.

Register

Why Mentoring?

Participants in mentoring programs report a number of benefits from their participation: improved confidence, self-awareness, clearer career direction, better communication skills, listening skills, feedback skills, more assertive communication, and enhanced management skills. 

“My mentor had a vast impact on me throughout this year. They served as a listening ear, a mentor, and a friend, which was not something that I knew I needed in the association space. The advice they gave me continually helped me stay afloat within my daily work and make positive choices, even when things felt hard at work. I look forward to staying in touch for a long time with my mentor.”

- 2023 TSAE Mentee Participant

Key Program Dates

About the Program

In partnership with The Art of Mentoring, TSAE’s Better Together Mentor Program is designed to provide a unique relationship opportunity for members to connect, share knowledge and support each other's growth and development. 

By bringing together experienced professionals and those eager to learn, we create a vibrant and supportive environment for association professionals to thrive. 

Mentees will gain personal and professional development through problem solving and constructive guidance from a Mentor and to recognize professional challenges and achievements. Plus, get paired with a CAE certified mentor and earn 10+ hours of CAE credit.

Mentors will be given training to develop better coaching and leadership skills that will serve them beyond the program and into their personal career growth. It is a chance to share knowledge and leave a legacy while also reflecting on their own careers and experience.

Program Eligibilty Criteria

Mentees  

• Association management professionals with at least 1 year of experience in the profession 
• Member of TSAE 
• Program commitment, including length of program, regularly meeting with match, and participating in surveys and events 

Mentors  

• Association management professionals with at least 5 years of experience in the profession 
• Member of TSAE 
• Program commitment, including length of program, regularly meeting with match, and participating in surveys and events 

Both mentees and mentors must also be willing to complete the online training provided, review the support resources available and engage completely in the relationship process, connecting with your mentee/mentor at least monthly. 

Program Application Fees

Nonrefundable after match is completed

If you are interested in the program, but require financial assistance to participate, please provide your contact information by clicking here.

Register

August 10, 2024
Cleveland, OH

Cleveland, OH 44114

4:00 - 5:45 PM

Register

Please register before July 31st and let us know if you can make it.