Conference Speakers

Thursday and Friday Keynote Speakers:

Sheri Jacobs, FASAE, CAE, CEO & President
Avenue M Group

[email protected]
Website: https://www.avenuem.org/
Bio: As the founder of Avenue M Group, Sheri Jacobs, FASAE, CAE, is a leader, innovator and visionary who has helped more than 300 associations, small and large, tackle their most challenging issues. A best-selling author of Pivot Point: Reshaping Your Business When it Matters Most, and association management veteran with nearly 20 years of experience, Sheri created a unique firm that helps associations achieve their goals through market research, financial modeling, and strategy. Prior to opening Avenue M Group, Sheri served in staff leadership roles at the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, the American Bar Association, and the Association Forum of Chicagoland. During her tenure at the Association Forum, she built award-winning campaigns that resulted in double-digit membership and meeting attendance growth. Over the years, Sheri has served in numerous leadership roles including the ASAE Board of Directors and the ASAE Foundation Board of Directors, chair of the ASAE Foundation Development Committee, chair of the ASAE Membership Council and a member of the Marketing Council and Professional Development Committee. She is the author of The Art of Membership, co-editor and a contributor to ASAE’s best-selling membership book, Membership Essentials and author of the ASAE marketing book 199 Ideas: Powerful Marketing Tactics That Sell. She has been invited to speak as a keynote or present at more than 200 industry conferences and events. She is the 30th recipient of the Academy of Leaders Award. It is ASAE’s highest honor given to industry partners who have demonstrated exemplary support of ASAE and the entire association community. She was awarded the John C. Thiel Distinguished Service Award by the Association Forum in recognition for her outstanding service to the association community. In 2021, Sheri completed the Northwestern University Leading Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Certificate program and in 2022, she completed the Disruptive Strategy Certificate Program at Harvard Business School.

 

John Register, CSP, CPAE, CEO & Co-Founder
Inspired Communications International

[email protected]
Website: https://johnregister.beehiiv.com/
Bio:  John Register transforms adversity into advantage. A decorated U.S. Army veteran, two-time Olympic Trials qualifier, and Paralympic silver medalist, he turned a service-related amputation into a launching point for leadership, resilience, and change. Choosing to “amputate fear,” John inspires others to do the same. He founded the U.S. Olympic Committee’s Paralympic Military Sports Program, now central to veteran rehabilitation through sport. As CEO of the Amputee Coalition and a National Board member, he championed employment equity and access for individuals with disabilities. His Re³ Resilience Action Model™—Reckoning, Revision, and Renewal—equips leaders to navigate disruption with purpose. John has empowered organizations including Vail Resorts, Deloitte, Socure, Coca-Cola, and multiple federal agencies. A CSP® and National Speakers Association Hall of Fame inductee, he’s known for his authenticity and powerful storytelling that connects across industries and audiences. Today, John serves as a citizen diplomat with the U.S. Department of State and a leading voice in workforce transformation and disability inclusion. He holds a BA from the University of Arkansas and is a U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program alum. Based in Colorado Springs with his wife Alice, John continues to elevate others—onstage, in coaching, and around the world.

 

National Pre-Conference and Breakout Session Speaker

Jeff De Cagna, AIMP, FRSA, FASAE, Executive Advisor
Foresight First LLC

[email protected]

Website: https://foresightfirst.io/
Bio:  Jeff De Cagna AIMP FRSA FASAE, executive advisor for Foresight First LLC in Reston, Virginia, is an association contrarian, foresight practitioner, governing designer, stakeholder and successor advocate, and stewardship catalyst. He helps association boards set a higher standard of stewardship, governing and foresight to become fit for purpose. Jeff serves as the curator and editor of the Future of Association Boards (FAB) Community Dialogue, presented in partnership with re:Members.

Breakout Session Speakers (In Alphabetical Order)

Keith Bailey, Founder
Articulated Intelligence
[email protected]

Website: https://www.articulated-intelligence.com/
Bio:  Keith Bailey’s journey from the Netherlands to the U.S. at age 8 wasn’t just culture shock — it was full-contact immersion. No English. Hand-sewn clothes. And a crash course in human connection. Instead of retreating, he got curious. How do people connect? Who gets listened to — and why?  That question followed him into the Marine Corps, where he served as a photojournalist. There, Keith learned that storytelling wasn’t fluff — it was force. A well-told story could cut through noise, rank, and red tape. It became his mindset: person before profession, message before marketing. From hotels to health clubs to global sales floors, Keith became a student of connection — using Toastmasters, improv stages, and National Speakers Association chapters as his real-world training grounds. He didn’t just talk about communication; he practiced it relentlessly.    Now, as co-founder of Articulated Intelligence, Keith helps professionals own the room, ditch the fluff, and speak with clarity, purpose, and presence. His mission? To make powerful communication a practiced skill, not a lucky break. Because in Keith’s world, life doesn’t reward the loudest voice. It rewards the most well-spoken one. 


Rob Bean, Senior Strategist
Senior Strategist at BizStream

email: [email protected]
web: https://www.bizstream.com/

Rob specializes in helping associations build better website experiences through a thoughtful application of strategy, creativity, and technology. He has generated great results for organizations such as CSU College of Business, Investments & Wealth Institute, the National Society of Black Engineers, The American Society for Non-Destructive Testing, and Western Research Institute.


Christian DeSousa, Director of Membership and Engagement

Obesity Medicine Association

[email protected]

Website: https://obesitymedicine.org/
Bio: 

 

 

Jordan Ellertson, Senior Account Strategist
BizStream

Website: https://www.bizstream.com/

Bio: 

 

 

Teresa Fraker, FACHE, RN, CPHQ, CBN, CAE, Executive Director
Obesity Medicine Association

[email protected]

Website: https://obesitymedicine.org/
Bio: Teresa Fraker is the Executive Director of the Obesity Medicine Association. Previously, she was the Program Administrator for the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) at the American College of Surgeons (ACS) in Chicago, IL.

 Teresa has held certifications in both oncology as well as bariatric nursing and she has worked in multiple clinical and healthcare administrative areas over the last 35+ years of her career in the areas of women’s health, breast cancer, perinatal services and bariatric surgery. Prior to her role at ACS, she worked as a hospital administrator with oversight of multiple hospital-based outpatient clinical departments.

Professionally, Teresa is extensively involved with the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). In addition, she actively participates in the Baldridge Program as a Senior Examiner, having served three different states in this capacity. She currently also serves as the 2024/25 Programs Committee Chair for CSAE, is a frequent speaker for the association, and co-chaired the Case Study component of the 2024 Annual Conference.

Joan Hablutzel, Senior Director, Education, Events and Operations
Obesity Medicine Association

[email protected]

Website: www.obesitymedicine.org
Bio:  Joan Hablutzel is a detail-oriented leader with over 20 years of experience in executing multifaceted events and educational programs for healthcare associations. She excels in increasing attendance, optimizing guest experiences, and driving growth through innovative content delivery. As Senior Director of Education, Events, and Operations with the Obesity Medicine Association, Joan has pioneered new methods for delivering content both face-to-face and digitally. She holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin, an MBA with a Health Administration focus from the University of Colorado, and certifications as a CMP, PMP, and HMCC.

J. Michael Hoehn, CAE, Chief Operating Officer
International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer

[email protected]

Website: www.iaslc.org
Bio:  Michael serves as Chief Operating Officer for the IASLC overseeing the conferences, education, IT, marketing and membership teams. He has 20 years experience in association management with a background in business consulting, for-profit and not-for-profit operations, strategic planning, product development and process improvement.  Before joining the IASLC, he was the president of an association management company that provided management and consulting services to healthcare associations. Michael has been instrumental in helping organizations evaluate, plan, and implement improved systems and processes, develop growth strategies, and build effective professional teams.  Outside of work, Michael pursues a deep interest in history, fosters dogs, plays an active role in CSAE.

Lisa Hough, President and CEO
Adams County Regional Economic Development Corporation

[email protected]

Website: https://www.ac-rep.org/
Bio: I lead with purpose, bringing together business, government, and community partners to drive inclusive growth, spark innovation, and elevate economic vitality across Adams County and beyond. Whether launching impactful initiatives, curating leadership experiences, or celebrating Gamechanging businesses, I’m passionate about building strong regional ecosystems where opportunity thrives. Strategic by nature and collaborative at heart, I believe in the power of connection to shape a stronger, more resilient future.

Daniel Kravitz, Vice President
AMG National Trust
Website: https://www.amgnational.com/about-amg/locations/denver/
Bio:  

Corky Kyle, President
The Kyle Group/Hardball Strategies Academy

[email protected]

Website: https://thekylegroup.com/
Bio: Henry “Corky” Kyle is an accomplished lobbyist and association manager with over 38 years of experience managing and representing businesses, associations, and public entities before state and local governments. He is a featured speaker at numerous conferences and conventions across the country. He has published articles, magazines, and booklets on all areas of government relations and advocacy. Corky has an innate knowledge of how associations work and the legislative process they work within. His enthusiasm and service to clients is unequaled in Colorado’s association management and political industry. He can help your organization with planning, development, and implementation of your lobbying and advocacy program.

Cara Lawrence, Partner

Tierney Lawrence Stiles LLC

Website: https://www.tls.legal/

Bio: Cara specializes in transactional law, with an emphasis on tax-exempt organizations including private foundations, public charities, business associations, corporate foundations, political organizations and all other types of nonprofit organizations. Cara is a member of the Colorado Bar Association, the Denver Bar Association, the Colorado Women's Bar Association and the Colorado Nonprofit Association. Cara is a frequent presenter at the Annual Institute on Advising Nonprofit Organizations in Colorado on topics ranging from obtaining tax exempt status or complex legal structures for nonprofits organizations.

Lauren Leeman, Director, Investor Relations

Colorado Chamber of Commerce

[email protected]

Website: https://cochamber.com/
Bio: With over fifteen years of experience in business development, I am a passionate and innovative professional who excels in creating and delivering value for diverse stakeholders. I have successfully managed and grown multi-million-dollar membership, sponsorship, and fundraising portfolios through approachable relationship-building, meeting donors and members where they are, and having an excellent grasp on donor and industry priorities, from legislation to grassroots change. My mission is to help businesses and communities flourish by building and strengthening the tools, programs, and relationships that support their growth and development.

Alex Mozeley, Director, Education Development and Outcomes Strategy

Pri-Med
[email protected]
Website: www.pri-med.com
Bio:  Alex Mozeley brings over a decade of experience in continuing education for healthcare professionals. In her current role at Pri-Med, she oversees grants and outcomes strategy, ensuring the delivery of high-quality educational programs for primary care providers. Alex holds a Bachelor’s degree from DePauw University and earned her Master of Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health.

Emily Musser, Vice President
AMG National Trust

[email protected]

Website: https://www.amgnational.com/about-amg/locations/denver/
Bio: 

 


Kelly Nevins, Director, Education
International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer
[email protected]
Website: www.iaslc.org
Bio:  Kelly Nevins-Kraines is a visionary leader in medical education with extensive experience in grant funding, instructional design, and accreditation compliance. As Director of Education at the IASLC, she has spearheaded global strategic initiatives, launched innovative learning platforms, and led international accreditation efforts. With a career spanning leadership roles at SCCM, Evolve Medical Education, and Med Learning Group, Kelly excels in program development, business strategy, and cross-functional collaboration. A recognized CME/CE innovator, she has successfully built and scaled education programs across various healthcare sectors. She is also a published author, lecturer, and dedicated advocate for advancing continuing medical education worldwide.

Kristin Richeimer, CAE, Executive Director
Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine

[email protected]

Website: www.CCAHM.org
Bio:  Kristin Richeimer, CAE, is a seasoned association executive with over 20 years of experience advancing nonprofit organizations at the state, national, and international levels. She currently serves as Executive Director of the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (CCAHM) and is the founder of e7m International Consulting, LLC, specializing in member engagement, surveys, data strategy, exceptional events, and fractional and interim executive leadership.  Kristin has held leadership roles across multiple association industries, with a focus on expanding membership, impact, and reputation. She has led education and events across the U.S. and globally in at least 17 countries across 6 continents.  A recognized speaker and expert faculty member for ASAE and CSAE and past associations, Kristin has presented on ethics, member growth, crisis management, diversity, and patient advocacy. She is a 2024–2025 scholarship winner and graduate of the National Speakers Association Colorado Chapter Speaker’s Academy.  Kristin speaks English and German (near) fluently, along with conversational French, Japanese, Russian, and Samoan. Originally from Maryland, she has called Colorado home for nearly 25 years and enjoys travel, gardening, and the beauty industry. She and her husband recently started a YouTube Channel (@303Timoteos) featuring Samoan travel and family life which has over 1,600 subscribers and over 335,000 views.  

Mike Skinner, Executive Director
National Asphalt Pavement Alliance

[email protected]

Website: https://www.driveasphalt.org/
Bio:  Mike Skinner is the Executive Director of the Asphalt Pavement Alliance, bringing over 34 years of experience as a technical expert and association leader in the infrastructure and construction industries. A Certified Association Executive and licensed Professional Engineer, Mike has led strategic initiatives that have elevated industry influence, grown market share, and shaped public policy. He previously served as Senior Director of Engineering at the Colorado Asphalt Pavement Association.  Mike is a passionate speaker and trainer who has used public speaking throughout his career to build credibility, expand networks, and raise the visibility of both his organizations and the industry at large. He believes every association professional has the power to amplify their voice—and their impact—by stepping confidently into the spotlight.

Travis Skodak, Director of Membership and Sponsorships
American Oil Chemists Society

[email protected]

Website: https://www.aocs.org/
Bio: With a wealth of experience in membership development and membership relations in the Association industry, I am passionate about building and growing communities that support its members to achieve success in their careers, connect deeper with mentors, colleagues, and business partners in their field, and support them to achieve their personal and professional goals. As Director of Membership & Partnerships, I work with the board, staff, and members to create and implement strategies that enhance member value, member engagement, member recruitment, & member retention. I work with a talented team that facilitates programs, education, and initiatives that foster collaboration, learning, and networking among our diverse and international community of members.

Shannon Stone, Senior Relationship Manager
AMG National Trust

[email protected]

Website: https://www.amgnational.com/about-amg/locations/denver/
Bio:  I AM the trusted financial partner you can trust today. I reverently believe in the power of the passionate servant leader to elevate and uplift and effect positive changes that make the difference for millions of people. I am a Senior Relationship Manager at AMG National Trust and I am committed to serving my client base of nonprofits, foundations, businesses, associations and individuals by helping them find a better way to manage their business operations, capitalize their key initiatives and serve their constituents. Every day, I am looking for new ways and better pathways to achieve the greatest impact on the critical issues that are most relevant and meaningful for my clients today.

Dan Streeter, CEO
Mission Fuel

[email protected]

Website: https://missionfuel.ai/
Bio: 

 

Kelsey Wood, CAE, Director, Membership
International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer

[email protected]

Website: https://www.iaslc.org/
Bio: I'm a Certified Association Executive (CAE) with extensive international healthcare association leadership experience, specializing in strategic member engagement, governance initiatives, and technology-driven organizational growth. My expertise spans cross-functional project management, membership strategy, team leadership, and translating executive vision into measurable outcomes that strengthen member communities through data-driven decision making. As a detail-oriented leader with a passion for AP Style and a belief that humor and genuine relationships are essential to success, I've driven record membership growth while implementing innovative systems and governance frameworks that enhance organizational effectiveness. A proud two-term AmeriCorps alum committed to mission-driven work, I'm equally passionate about hiking Colorado trails with my family, good food and wine, and crushing Peloton workouts.

David Worley, President & CEO
Denver South

[email protected]

Website: https://denver-south.com/
Bio: