In the Spotlight
Tell us about your background. Where you were born, raised, etc.?
I was born in Fordham, England and raised in Minneapolis, MN and Fort Lauderdale, FL. I attended college at Rollins, Winter Park, FL, then completed my undergraduate degree at Western College for Women in Oxford, OH with a major in English. I earned an MAT (Master of Arts) degree at Montclair State University, Montclair N.J. and taught high school English. I raised a family and went back to work in the family sales and marketing business (Peabody Advertising) based in Ft. Lauderdale – selling, hiring, training reps for recreational advertising space in bowling and golf industries. I managed a satellite office in New Jersey, covering the Eastern region. I represented the company at multiple annual conventions, promoting Peabody Advertising’s services.
How did you get started in association management?
I took over management of a regional 21 state bowling association in 1998 to manage its convention in Atlantic City. In the eight years with them, the show tripled in size in attendees and sponsorships. I also worked with many other associations and foundations, handling parts of their management and/or their meetings and events. I went on to earn the highly regarded CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) designation in 2005.
When did you start with the GCSA of New Jersey?
I was hired in April 2007 to manage the GCSANJ along with the NJTA (New Jersey Turfgrass Association).
What do you consider to be your strengths? What do you love to do when it comes to association management?
I have strong detail management and administrative skills, multi-task, work well with people, respond quickly to requests, and have experience in creative design, and web management. I love the logistics of setting up conferences and making the association and its members look great!
Anything else you would like to add?
I love the members! They are friendly, down to earth, and willing to jump in and help. The board members are very involved. They made me feel right at home, and I am very pleased to be their executive director!
Share your stories by emailing them to Leann Cooper.
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