WASHINGTON— The ASAE Research Foundation has announced that it is now accepting applications for three major scholarship programs — the AMC Leaders Scholarship, the Future Leaders Professional Development Scholarship, and the John H. Graham Fund Scholarship — with a deadline of November 9, 2025. 

These scholarships are designed to empower association professionals at all career stages to advance their leadership skills, connect with ASAE’s dynamic community, and access unique opportunities for professional growth. 

“These scholarships represent ASAE’s ongoing commitment to developing the next generation of association leaders,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “Whether you’re just starting your leadership journey or ready to take the next big step, these programs provide the resources and connections you need to succeed.” 

AMC Leaders Scholarship  

The AMC Leaders Scholarship is a groundbreaking new initiative supporting association professionals working within association management companies (AMCs). This first-of-its-kind scholarship program addresses the distinct needs of AMC professionals while strengthening their engagement with the broader association community. 

Each year, three AMC professionals will receive $3,000 scholarships to attend ASAE in-person events, with funds available for registration, travel, lodging, or related expenses. In addition, recipients will benefit from exclusive coaching, curated networking opportunities, educational experiences, and complimentary ASAE membership (if not already a member). 

The AMC Leaders Scholarship was made possible by the vision and generosity of Lynda Bouchard Patterson, FASAE, CAE, founder of AMPED Association Management and Association CEO, and a former Chair of the ASAE Board of Directors. The AMC Leaders Scholarship is supported by an impressive coalition of founding corporate donors who share a vision for expanding access and strengthening the AMC community. Founding donors include Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI); Association CEO; Association Management Center; AMPED Association Management; Atlanta CVB; Bostrom; Degnon Associates, Inc.; The Deondo Company; Etherio; MCI USA; Stringfellow Management Group (SMG); and Talley Management Group. 

Applications are available here: AMC Leaders Scholarship Application. 

Future Leaders Professional Development Scholarship 

The Future Leaders Professional Development Scholarship supports the career advancement of young association professionals. In 2026, selected recipients will each receive $3,000 to cover costs for any in-person ASAE event, including registration, travel, and lodging. Participants will also be paired with experienced association leaders for one-on-one mentoring sessions. 

Eligible applicants must be 35 years old or younger, employed at a trade or professional association, philanthropic organization, or association management company, and current ASAE members. 

This initiative is made possible through a founding donation from ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, and supported by corporate donors including Whiteford, Taylor & Preston LLP, Destination Cleveland, Hilton, ASAE Business Services, Inc., and others committed to building the leadership pipeline. 

Applications are available here: Future Leaders Scholarship Application.  

John H. Graham Fund Scholarship 

Established in 2020 by the ASAE Board of Directors with support from ASAE Past Chairs and Fellows, the John H. Graham Fund honors the legacy of former ASAE President and CEO John H. Graham IV, FASAE, CAE. Since its inception, the fund has been focused on inclusivity and has helped 40 deserving recipients complete ASAE’s ReadyMe program and take meaningful steps toward their leadership goals. 

ASAE’s ReadyMe program, recently enhanced, offers interactive educational modules, a four-month cohort experience, and an in-person Leadership Academy to help association professionals expand their leadership capacity. 

Applications are available here: John H. Graham Fund Scholarship Application.  

For more information about eligibility, benefits, and deadlines, visit https://foundation.asaecenter.org/scholarships/. 

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

About ASAE 

ASAE is a membership organization of more than 50,000 association executives and industry partners. 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 Welcome to ASAE — American Society of Association Executives (asaecenter.org)