Women's Forum 2025

The 2025 WSAE Women’s Forum brought together association professionals for a day of learning, connection, and inspiration centered around this year’s theme: “The Art of Influence.” Throughout the Forum, speakers and attendees explored how courage, relationships, mentorship, and authenticity shape effective leadership in today’s association environment.

Keynote Highlights

Lilah Jones – Courage as a Carry-On: Leading with Innovation, Collaboration, and Inclusivity in the Association Industry
The day began with an inspiring keynote from Lilah Jones, sponsored by EDI. Using travel as a metaphor, Jones described courage as stepping into the unknown and acting despite fear. She encouraged attendees to “pack” five courage-building practices into their daily lives:

• Recognize vulnerability as a strength
• Push toward growth with resilience
• Build confidence through goals and accountability

• Lean on community support
  Reflect on the journey

Jones closed by encouraging attendees to reflect on their growth over time and to embrace new experiences—even small ones—as opportunities to build courage.

Melanie Stuber – Unlock the Power of Relationships for Leadership Growth: A Strategic Investment in Your Personal Board
Leadership coach Melanie Stuber encouraged participants to think strategically about their support systems by building a “personal board of directors.” She guided attendees through identifying their personal “why,” selecting trusted advisors who can provide honest feedback and encouragement, and intentionally cultivating relationships that support long-term leadership growth.

Megan Kuiper – Stepping into Your Personal Brand: The Process
Closing the Forum, Megan Kuiper encouraged attendees to embrace authenticity as their leadership superpower. Through reflection and storytelling, she challenged participants to define what they want to be known for and to lead confidently as their true selves.

Breakout Sessions

Attendees participated in interactive breakout sessions focused on practical leadership strategies and professional development. Topics included strengthening supplier partnerships in event planning, exploring innovative approaches to non-dues revenue, and the role of mentorship in supporting career growth. These sessions encouraged discussion, collaboration, and idea-sharing among participants.

A Day of Connection and Inspiration

Beyond the educational sessions, the Women’s Forum provided valuable opportunities for networking and relationship-building among association professionals.

The success of the 2025 Women’s Forum was made possible by the support of our generous sponsors and partners, as well as our host venue, Monona Terrace, and the dedicated members of the Women’s Forum Subcommittee.

We look forward to continuing the conversations and momentum from this year’s Forum and sharing more information about the 2026 WSAE Women’s Forum later this year.

Monica Goeke, CAE
Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association
WSAE Women's Forum Committee Chair 

Caley Mutrie, CAE, IOM
Association Acumen
WSAE Women's Forum Committee Member

Amanda Neibauer
Executive Director, Inc.
WSAE Women's Forum Committee Member