Seminar Series

VSAE's Annual Seminar series includes six (6) two-and-a-half (2.5) hour educational seminars. Topics cover nearly all aspects of association management including communications, leadership, membership, strategic planning, and so much more. VSAE is an approved provider of CAE credit hours and each seminar in the series is worth up to 2.5 CAE credits. See the CAE Information page for more, including a printable chart to track your CAE credits.

Each seminar is accompanied by a networking breakfast, luncheon, or reception. You can attend the seminar, the networking event, or both. VSAE members can attend the networking portion (breakfast, lunch, or reception) for free provided they are registered by the deadline. See VSAE's registration policy for more details.

For more information about VSAE's Seminar Series, see the FAQ below or review VSAE's Registration Policy.

2019 Seminars

Title - TBD
Content Leader Information - TBD

Friday, February 1

TBD

Key Takeaways
After attending this session, participants will be able to...

Shifting from Informal to Intentional: Pathways to Innovation
Carol Hamilton, Grace Social Sector Consulting, LLC

Friday, March 1

Recent research shows that most associations have yet to establish intentional practices to cultivate innovation within their organization. Using a human centered design approach builds focus and intention into innovation processes. Design Thinking is a human-centered and systematic approach to problem solving and innovation. By focusing on empathy and iteration, the design thinking process helps you create solutions that are grounded in the experience of your stakeholders and informed by their feedback through a co-creation process. This helps protect your organization from costly program development that you ultimately discover has no audience. Practice design thinking tools such as customer journey mapping or personas that enable you to uncover unmet member needs.

Key Takeaways
After attending this session, participants will be able to:

• Review findings from recent research on associations and innovation.
• Learn principles and phases of design thinking processes.
• Practice using design thinking tools such customer journey mapping or personas to discover unmet member needs.

Title TBD

Charm Bullard, Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities

Friday, April 5

The seminar topic will be on Diversity and Inclusion. Specific details are forthcoming.

Lobbyist or Barber: It's About Relationships
Robert Keaton, Keaton Associates, LLC

Friday, June 7

Imagine a world where the right relationships in the political arena built a strong country. A world where lobbyists are respected for having a relationship above reproach with elected officials. Inspired by the city council members, school administrators and mayors who came in for a haircut and passionate political debates in the barbershop where he worked, Bob Keaton has written a refreshing guide to principled lobbying. "Lobbyist or Barber" illustrates just how incredibly lucky Americans are to live in a country where we are free to jump in and become a part of the political process. According to Bob, government is not some high and mighty separate entity out of our reach. Instead, with the help of elections and lobbyists, the everyday citizen can reach out and put in their two cents at any time. Bob Keaton loves being a lobbyist, because he gets to effect change every day. In his book he gives the reader an understanding of why lobbying is important and reveals his insights about the workings of government and how a lobbyist can become a forthright and principled advocate. The book expands on how lobbyists help, especially in navigating the structure of government, giving guidance on how one can use their two cents in the most efficient manner possible. "Lobbyist or Barber" also explores how lobbyists can guide one toward the best processes to implement and whom to connect with to get a seat at the table. For young lobbyists or those unfamiliar with the profession, "Lobbyist or Barber" is an eye-opening insight into the halls of government. It is also a mindful reminder to mature practitioners of what their role should be in creating good government – building strong and principled relationships with our elected officials. "Lobbyist or Barber" is more than just another how-to book. Ultimately, it’s a challenge to the status quo and an empowerment to those who long for good government and lobbying as the greatest and most simple form of advocacy that effects real change, lends a real voice and unites us all. 

Key Takeaways
After attending this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand the term "lobbyist"
• Describe the elements of government affairs
• Learn how to hire a lobbyist
• Apply ways to effectively use social media
• Grow your membership 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I attend just the seminar or just the networking breakfast/luncheon/reception?

Yes, you can attend the seminar, the networking event, or both.

Is there still a networking reception before the luncheon with free drinks?

At many (but not all) seminar events, there is a networking reception before luncheon or after the seminar.

How much are registration fees?

* deadline is typically the Tuesday before the event.
** Executive non-Resident & Semi-Retired members pay $15 to attend the luncheon/breakfast/reception.

Is there a limit to how many times a non-member may attend?

Yes, non-members are limited to three events per calendar year.

How do I use my Seminar Pass to register?

Register for the event and use the Seminar Pass discount code on the payment page. If you need your code again, please call the office at (804) 747-4971.

Where do I find my Seminar Pass discount code?

The code is in the confirmation email sent to you when you purchased your Seminar Pass(es).

I am a member. How do I register a staff member who is not a member?

You will need a code to register them on the website. Call the office at (804) 747-4971 to verify your membership and receive the code.

Can I register multiple people from the same organization at the same time?

Yes, the main contact for an organization can register multiple members during registration using the "register linked profile" button. See the registration form for details.

How do I register a guest?

If you would like to register a guest, you may call VSAE at (804) 747-4971 or the guest will need to login/create a profile within the database.