As WSAE and Associations West continue exploring a potential merger, we’re introducing the 2026 GEM Sponsorship Program to help industry partners maintain and expand their visibility during this transition period. The six-month program (January–June 2026) offers a range of sponsorship levels with benefits across workshops, newsletters, and online platforms in both Washington and the broader Associations West network.

The long, dark days of winter are the perfect time to curl up with a good book. Join us for a special Shop Talk led by Bracken Killpack, Executive Director of the Washington State Dental Association, as we share reading recommendations for the holiday season and beyond.

This session isn’t about professional development (no CAE credit here!)—it’s about fun. Whether you’re into novels, nonfiction, or the latest business bestsellers, bring your favorite titles and discover new ones from your peers. Think of it as a cozy book chat with colleagues to help brighten the Big Dark.

Your website can be much more than an online brochure—it can be your most effective tool for attracting and engaging members. Join Charles Stanisce of Novi AMS for an interactive Shop Talk packed with practical tips to turn your site into a powerful marketing asset. Learn how to enhance the user experience, strengthen your marketing funnel, and apply technology tools that help your association stand out online.

The Washington Confluence Magazine is the official quarterly publication of the Washington Society for Association Execellence. This issue features a series of article on the impact of artificial intelligence on associations and association management. It also includes a special announcement from WSAE President Monette Anderson. 

WSAE is at a turning point. The board has approved moving forward with drafting a merger proposal with Associations West—but the direction isn’t set without member input. Watch this short member update from Board President Monette Anderson to see how your participation will directly influence the final decision.

The Washington Society for Association Excellence (WSAE) Board of Directors voted in September to create a merger task force to explore a potential merger with Associations West (AW, formerly CalSAE). While this was a difficult decision, we are confident that with your participation, we can determine whether this is the right direction for WSAE. This vote signaled the beginning of an evaluation process, not a completed merger. While the legal structure under consideration takes the form of an acquisition, the intent is to unite Washington professionals with a larger regional network—if members ultimately approve.

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming a practical tool for marketing and communications. Join Jeanette Kebede, CAE, Vice President of Communications & Technology at the Washington Society of CPAs, for a hands-on session exploring how AI can help draft and refine copy, create slides and social posts, and build marketing playbooks. You’ll learn how to guide AI step by step while keeping your brand and organizational voice front and center.