Welcoming Environment® Committee

Welcoming Environment Committee

The Welcoming Environment® Committee plays an important role in determining the focus and agenda for Association Forum's diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility principles and programs. The Welcoming Environment is a concept that embodies our commitment to creating a sense of belonging and value for all individuals who engage with the broader association community. As one of Association Forum's core values, the committee's work focuses on this commitment. The work of the committee extends beyond our organization's boundaries. We aim to expand this welcoming spirit to every interaction with Association Forum, creating a ripple effect that resonates throughout the association management industry. Annually, the committee works on thoughtful initiatives, strategic interactions, and ongoing self-evaluation.

The Committee

  • Encourages the development of a Welcoming Environment within every aspect of Association Forum
  • Monitors metrics to gauge the efficacy of Welcoming Environment efforts
  • Scans the association community to contribute to the development of the online Welcoming Environment Resource Center.
  • Actively promotes and encourages diversity and inclusion within Association Forum
  • Supporting the work of the WE® Advisory Working Groups—Latinx Advisory Group; BIPOC Advisory Group; and LGBTQIA+ Advisory Groups 

These Opportunities Are Recommended for Members Who

  • Have diversity, equity and inclusion training or background 
  • Are passionate about increasing diversity and inclusion within Association Forum

Time Commitment

  • Monthly committee meetings
  • Participation in conference calls and sub-committee meetings as necessary
  • Act as WE Ambassadors at programs and events when available 


2024-25 OPEN Call for Volunteers

2023-24 Members
Jonathan Adams, CAE, Chair
Kathleen M Bell, FASAE
Cassie Buchanan, MBA, SHRM-CP
Malia Cook-Artis, CAE
Josie Hernandez, IOM
Summar Jonas, SPHR
Kerri Leo, MATD, CAE, CHCP
Jose Marroquin
Charmaine Osborne, CAE
Jorge Rivera, CAE, IOM
Emily Thompson, CMP, DES
Debbie Trueblood, MSW, FASAE, IOM, CAE

Board Liaison
Jose Segarra, MNA, CAE

Staff Liaison
Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE
executiveoffice@associationforum.org

Carrie Dellamano, CPRP
dellamano@associationforum.org