Dr. Heather Metcalf, Research Director
Women in Engineering ProActive Network (WEPAN)

Proposal Title: “An intersectional, critical mixed-methods approach to understanding member experiences with STEM professional society and association culture”

WEPAN was founded in 1990 and its mission is to advance cultures of inclusion and diversity in engineering education and professions.

The Sal Martino Grant for DEI Research aims to expand and advance DEI knowledge in association management and leadership. The grant provides up to $15,000 to one meritorious proposal (per cycle) addressing DEI in nonprofit membership organizations and is intended to support the research activities of those working (or matriculating) in an academic community, association management professionals, and consultants/private contractors in association management. The grant is generously funded by Webster Chamberlain & Bean LLP and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The grant is named for Sal Martino, FASAE, CAE, who retired earlier this year as CEO and executive director of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and is a past chair of ASAE and the ASAE Research Foundation, in recognition of his passion and commitment to DEI practices in association management.

“Webster, Chamberlain & Bean was honored to establish the grant in the name of Sal who was both groundbreaking and inspirational,” said David Goch, partner, Webster Chamberlain & Bean. “WC&B remains committed to supporting DEI because, as Dr. King said, ‘Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly.’”

“We are honored to support funding for the Sal Martino Grant and provide DEI research opportunities for association management,” said Charlene Lopez, executive vice president and chief sales officer, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Inclusivity has long been a part of Atlanta’s identity, so ACVB is proud to partner on this grant which aligns with our city’s commitment to advancing diversity and equity initiatives.”

“Congratulations to WEPAN and Dr. Heather Metcalf on being awarded the 2023 Sal Martino Grant for DEI Research,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “We look forward to the findings of this important research initiative. ASAE and the ASAE Research Foundation are also thankful for the support from Webster, Chamberlain & Bean and the Atlanta CVB to honor Sal Martino and his longstanding dedication to DEI in our community.”

To learn more about the Sal Martino Grant for DEI Research, visit: https://foundation.asaecenter.org/grants/sal-martino-dei-grant.

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Vest, CAE, 202-626-2798, cvest@asaecenter.org

About ASAE

ASAE is a membership organization of more than 48,000 association executives and industry partners representing 7,400 organizations. Since it was established 100 years ago, its members have and continue to lead, manage, and work in or partner with organizations in more than a dozen association management disciplines, from executive management to finance to technology. With the support of the ASAE Research Foundation, a separate nonprofit entity, ASAE is the premier source of learning, knowledge, and future-oriented research for the association and nonprofit profession and provides resources, education, ideas, and advocacy to enhance the power and performance of the association and nonprofit community. Visit ASAE at www.asaecenter.org.