FSAE Annual Conference 2025 Recap: Leadership, Learning, and Lasting Connections

The 2025 Florida Society of Association Executives (FSAE) Annual Conference was a resounding success, and AMC Source was proud to be part of the energy, insights, and collaboration that defined the gathering.

This year’s Annual Conference brought together 512 registrants (198 executives and 279 associates), including 153 first-time attendees. The spirit of generosity matched the focus on learning, with participants donating 115 books to the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County. The FSAE Foundation made it possible for 14 attendees to participate through grant funding, including AMC Source Association Executive Ruth Saint Julien. AMC Source was also represented by Co-Presidents Debra S. Nolan, M.S., CAE, IOM and Gregory Brooks, along with Finance Director Lisa Marburger, MBA, and Director of Marketing and Communications Eva Bowen, MBA.

Key Takeaways from FSAE Annual Conference 2025

The conference was packed with sessions that spoke directly to the challenges and opportunities association professionals face. Here are a few standout themes we are bringing back to our clients and community.

Leadership in a Changing Landscape

The Leadership Roundtable reinforced that modern leadership is not about having all the answers; it is about asking thoughtful questions, staying curious, and inspiring confidence. The discussions underscored that leadership qualifications are not just past experience, they are about the ability to learn, adapt, and guide others with clarity and care.

Turning Websites into Marketing Powerhouses

The session 17 Tips to Make Your Website Your #1 Marketing Tool highlighted that the biggest threat to an association’s success is a bad member experience, and your website is often where that experience begins. Practical insights ranged from crafting strong value propositions to using trust indicators like reviews and testimonials. The takeaway? Websites should sell benefits, not just list features, and design choices should always prioritize mobile, simplicity, and clarity.

AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement

Multiple sessions explored AI’s growing role in associations. From Ready-Set-Go! 99-Second Upskilling to The Art of Prompt Engineering, speakers emphasized that AI is only as effective as the human strategy guiding it. The phrase “human bookends” stood out: 10% human input, 80% AI support, and 10% human review. Presenters shared that, when used well, AI can streamline content creation, automate routine work, and free leaders to focus on relationships and strategy.

Meeting Members Where They Are

A powerful theme came from sessions on segmentation and member personas. Associations thrive when they serve members, not just recruit them. That means tailoring engagement by looking beyond demographics into psychographics, such as values, motivations, and interests. The challenge is designing experiences where every member feels seen, heard, and valued.

The Ripple Effect Mindset

In one of the most thought-provoking sessions, attendees were encouraged to shift from a siloed mindset to a ripple effect mindset, thinking beyond immediate problems and considering how actions shape trust, culture, and long-term impact. Vulnerability, curiosity, and empathy emerged as essential traits for leaders who want to create sustainable change.

Moments that Stood Out at FSAE Annual Conference 2025

Beyond the sessions, the conference created space for meaningful networking and community building. Evening receptions at stunning venues offered great food, music, and laughter, while “walk-and-talk” discussions invited deeper personal reflection, such as the question, “What advice would you give your younger self?” These conversations were more than icebreakers; they sparked connections that will continue to shape our work long after the conference.

Looking Ahead

The FSAE Annual Conference once again proved to be more than just an event. It is a catalyst for ideas, relationships, and innovation in the association world.

At AMC Source, we are energized by the themes of leadership, intentional member engagement, and the thoughtful use of technology. We left the conference inspired to bring these ideas back to our clients, ensuring we are not just keeping pace with change but helping shape it.

Learn more about AMC Source's longstanding partnership with FSAE here.