Member Update 6-25
Greetings ASAE Community,
On behalf of the ASAE Board and staff team, we extend our sincere thanks to our members, partners, and stakeholders for your continued engagement and support — your contributions are vital to everything we’ve accomplished. As we reach the midpoint of 2025, we’re pleased to share several key updates that reflect our collective progress and ongoing momentum.
Imagine the Possibilities at ASAE’s 2025 Annual Meeting & Exposition
Join us August 9–12 in Los Angeles for ASAE’s 2025 Annual Meeting & Exposition — a transformative experience designed to spark bold ideas, foster meaningful connections, and shape the future of associations. Under the theme “Imagine the Possibilities,” this year’s event features 100+ education sessions, immersive networking, and a stellar lineup of thought leaders.
Main Stage speakers include NBA legend and entrepreneur Earvin “Magic” Johnson, bestselling author Susan Cain, and 2020 presidential candidate and innovator Andrew Yang — alongside Catalyst speakers offering fresh perspectives on leadership, inclusion, and global trends.
From sessions to social events at iconic L.A. venues like the Coliseum, GRAMMY Museum, and L.A. Live, this is your moment to reimagine what’s possible. And there’s more to come — stay tuned for exciting entertainment announcements! Be part of the largest annual gathering of association professionals — register now and join us in L.A.
CIC Advocacy Secures Key Wins in Senate Tax Bill
The U.S. Senate is working towards finalizing their version of legislation extending provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and enacting many of the President’s domestic policy priorities.
Following advocacy from ASAE’s Community Impact Coalition, the Senate removed a provision that would have taxed nonprofit organizations’ expenses on parking and transportation fringe benefits. Instead of diverting resources to a new tax, nonprofits will be able to drive that revenue towards that mission.
The bill also provides Americans with new tools to access the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in today’s economy, building on advocacy by ASAE’s Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition. The bill includes the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act, legislation that expands the use of 529 plans to cover postsecondary training and credentialing, such as licenses and nongovernmental certifications.
Senate leadership is working to finalize their version of the bill by July 4th. ASAE and our coalitions will continue to engage with policymakers throughout the legislative process.
ASAE Bolstering ACAI Mission Ahead of Federal Action Plan
As the Trump Administration prepares to release its Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Plan by July 22, 2025, ASAE is ramping up activity within its Association Coalition for AI (ACAI) to ensure that association voices are at the table as policymakers shape the future of AI regulation.
While the forthcoming federal plan is expected to focus narrowly on enhancing U.S. competitiveness through research and development, many of the most consequential decisions—on issues like intellectual property, workforce disruption, and sector-specific applications—will be left to Congress and the states.
ASAE formed the ACAI in part to ensure that the diverse perspectives of trade and professional associations are reflected in emerging AI policy. As AI continues to transform industries, professions, and the way work is done, it is essential that associations play an active role in shaping regulatory frameworks that support innovation while protecting key stakeholder interests. If you are interested in receiving more information about ACAI and how your organization can get involved, please contact Alex Caldeira, staff liaison for the ACAI, at acaldeira@asaecenter.org.
Navigate Change with Confidence: Download ASAE’s Latest Insight Update
ASAE’s latest Insight Update report highlights how shifting federal policies are impacting the industries and professions associations represent — raising concerns around reduced federal funding, evolving economic and trade dynamics, and ongoing workforce challenges. While the risks are real, the report also points to new opportunities for associations to lead through enhanced advocacy, strategic partnerships, and adapting to regulatory changes.
This research is part of ASAE’s ongoing Insight Update series, designed to equip association leaders with timely, nonpartisan data to support strategic decision-making. With responses from CEOs across a wide range of associations and AMCs, the findings reflect both the uncertainty and the potential of this pivotal moment. Download the full report — free for ASAE members — to explore how your organization can prepare and lead in a rapidly changing policy environment.
Congratulations to 2025 ASAE-USAE Travel Scholarship and Future Leaders Scholarship Recipients
The ASAE Research Foundation recently announced the 2025 recipients of the ASAE-USAE Travel Scholarship, and the 2025 recipients of the Future Leaders Professional Development Scholarship, which supports the career advancement of young association professionals.
Each year, through the generous support of the ASAE-USAE Scholarship Fund, deserving professionals are awarded up to $5,000 to help offset the cost of attending the ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition, which this year will take place August 9–12, 2025, in Los Angeles. In addition to financial support, recipients receive complimentary registration for the meeting.
The Future Leaders Professional Development Scholarship provides each selected recipient with $3,000 to cover registration and travel and lodging costs for any in-person ASAE event. In addition, recipients will be matched 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 be current ASAE members.
Read more about this year’s ASAE-USAE Travel Scholarship recipients, and Future Leaders Professional Development Scholarship recipients.
Thank You for Engaging with Us at The Exchange™
Special thank you to everyone who engaged with us June 17 at ASAE’s The Exchange™ -- ASAE’s signature gathering of association leaders committed to advancing equity, connection, and growth. This powerful, one-day experience welcomed all who champion the success of women in the workplace, offering honest conversations, diverse perspectives, and practical strategies for personal and professional development. It was a a truly powerful and personal day of learning, reflection, and connection. If you missed it, check out the photo gallery on ASAE’s LinkedIn.
Help Shape the Future of Hospitality and Tourism
ASAE members — we’re excited to share an important initiative from our partners at Destinations International, in collaboration with San Diego State University, SearchWide Global, and the MPI Foundation. Together, they’re gathering insights from the next generation of hospitality and tourism professionals to help shape the future of our industry and its workforce.
Here’s how you can support this effort:
- Share this message with your staff across all departments
- Forward it to your local hospitality and tourism partners
- Post it on your organization’s social media channels
Survey Details:
• Open to hospitality and tourism professionals born after 1980
• Takes just 10–15 minutes to complete
Thank you for helping us amplify this important effort and ensure the voice of the next generation is heard!
Tools & Resources
· Event Location: Questions for Consideration
· Associations’ Guide to Risk and Crisis Management
· Associations’ Guide to Going Global
Save the Date for Upcoming ASAE Programs
· ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition – August 9-12, 2025
· Summit Awards Dinner – September 25, 2025
As always, thank you for your engagement with ASAE and please reach out with any questions.
Warm regards,
Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE
President and CEO