Overview
A Welcoming Environment® is a sense of belonging and connectedness that allows individuals to be authentic and feel respected and supported in opportunities and interactions. The WE Committee turns that principle into action—empowering the association community to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI); fostering safe and brave spaces through advisory groups; providing leading education and resources; and advocating for DEI champions.
The committee’s charge holds Association Forum accountable to support and grow the communities it serves.
The Welcoming Environment Committee
- Develops and provides leading DEI education and resources through the Welcoming Environment Resource Center
- Gathers and organizes industry-specific resources, both medical and non-medical, operational and strategic
- Leads DEI conversations and initiatives across the association community
- Equips staff to effectively champion DEI initiatives within their associations
- Integrates DEI principles into AF events and member engagement activities
- Creates and maintains safe and brave spaces through the work of WE advisory groups
- Shares insights from WE Organizational Award nominees with the AF community and beyond
- Supports and promotes DEI champions within and beyond the association community
Recommended for Members Who Are
Individuals with training or background in diversity, equity, and inclusion who 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; and service as WE Ambassadors at programs and events when available.
2026 - 2027 Members
Chair: Cassie Martell
Vice Chair: Jose Marroquin
Gonzo Schexnayder, CAE, UXMC
Meaghan-li McArdle
Sofi Garcia
Amber Welch
Kim Zvolanek, MNM, CAE
Samantha Mazzola, MBA
Katie Keel, MPA, CAE
Debbie Trueblood, MSW, FASAE, IOM, CAE
Jim Pearson, PMP
Adam Gilgour
Nicola Mohan, MSW
Cheré LaRose
Kat Frerichs
Nicola Mohan, MSW
Carolyn Banich, SHRM-CP
Board Liaison: Vicki Loise, CMP, CAE
Staff Liaison: Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE