Making the Case to Attend
Conference Value Summary
Did you know?
MSAE25 fits your PD budget! You can attend 2.5 days of conference programming, connect with some of the foremost thought leaders in association management, and participate in unique networking experiences all while enjoying two nights at the beautiful Grand Traverse Resort and Spa all for just over $1200 total?
Investing in professional development isn’t just about attending another conference—it’s about fueling your impact. MSAE25 is designed to deliver measurable value for both you and your organization. From nationally recognized keynotes and practical, solution-focused sessions to exclusive networking opportunities, every element of the experience strengthens your ability to lead, innovate, and drive results for your members.
This webpage provides everything you need to make a strong case for attendance. You’ll find tools and information to:
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Demonstrate how MSAE25 aligns with your organization’s goals and priorities.
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Highlight the immediate and long-term return on investment of participating.
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Estimate and manage costs—including travel, lodging, and meals.
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Show how you’ll bring value back to your team through shared learning and actionable insights.
Whether you’re preparing a formal request or simply outlining the benefits for your supervisor, these resources will help you present MSAE25 as a smart, strategic investment in your professional growth and your organization’s future.
👉 Ready to make your case? Explore the resources below to build your personalized Business Case for Attending MSAE25.
Build Your Case
Step 1: Review the conference agenda and concurrent sessions to identify sessions that will help you succeed in your role. Looking for suggestions? Please see the Recommended Sessions by Role table below!
Step 2: Calculate the mileage-related expense for your travel to Traverse City. The chart below contains calculations from common origins at the 2025 IRS mileage:
|
Origin |
Round-trip miles |
Estimated cost (0.70 × miles) |
|
Lansing → Traverse City |
~ 365 miles |
$255.50 |
|
Detroit → Traverse City |
~ 510 miles |
$357.00 |
|
Grand Rapids → Traverse City |
~ 288 miles |
$201.60 |
Step 3: Download and update the letter to your supervisor. Make sure you fill in the details and remove the highlights from the text.
Step 4: Submit your request according to your association's policy.
Step 5: Plan to follow through on your commitment to share what you learn with your colleagues!
Step 6: Have a great time learning and connecting with colleagues at MSAE25!
Recommended Sessions by Role
Click the Ì to view the suggested sessions for each role.
Keynote: MemberShift: Why Members Leave and the Strategies to Bring Them Back Freemium Membership Model: A Real Time Case Study Digging for Truth: Uncovering the Drivers of Membership & Retention Unlocking Member Value: Using the Value Proposition Canvas to Strengthen Your Product Portfolio Capturing the Voice of Your Future Member: Analytical Tools Leveraging Education to Drive Member Acquisition and Retention |
Keynote: Learning That Pays: Delivering Education Members Value—and Invest In! Brand Boldly: Social Media That Connects and Grows Why Print Still Matters Four Strategic Communication Steps for Real Results The ROI of AI: Personalizing Member Communications That Drive Results Mic Check: Why Every Association Should Be Podcasting |
Keynote: Learning That Pays: Delivering Education Members Value—and Invest In! Designing Event Programs That Engage & Deliver! The Neuroinclusive Imperative: Strategies for Inclusive Event and Education Design Cultivating Belonging: Inclusive Association Meetings and Events Profitable & Unforgettable: Building Revenue Generating Events That WOW! Creating and Managing Online Learning with AI: What Works, What Doesn’t, and How to Get Started |
Keynote: All Keynotes Work Smarter, Serve Better: Streamlining Workflows for a Stronger Association Mastering Cash Flow: Best Practices for Receipts, Controls, and Payments Small Staff, Big Impact: Strategies for Thriving with Limited Resources Quick Tips for AI Productivity Featuring Microsoft Copilot Beyond Membership: The Essential Role of Non-Dues Revenue in Association Success |
Keynote: All Keynotes Strategic Board Leadership: Elevating Governance for Impact Keeping Good People: The Value of Creating a Leadership Pathway Long Range Planning That Makes Sense Beyond the Heir Apparent: Building Resilient Associations Through Strategic Succession Planning Building a Culture of Continuous Improvement: Practical Strategies for Association Success |