Strategic Association Management

The Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association (TWGGA) held its annual Grape Camp this month in Lubbock. The three-day conference brought together new and veteran grape growers to explore the grower-winemaker relationship, discover solutions to equipment and technology needs, and dive into discussions about the future of the industry. SAM is proud to provide association management services to and partner with TWGGA in supporting Texas wines, wineries, and grape growers. #championgrowth

Fast Growth School Coalition (FGSC) hosted its annual luncheon at Texas Association of School Administrators/Texas Association of School Boards' txEDCON last month, bringing together more than 200 members and corporate partners to connect with each other and learn from speaker Ross Ramsey, co-founder and former executive editor of the Texas Tribune. SAM is proud to provide association management services to FGSC and support the organization in advocating for the fastest growing school districts in the state. #championgrowth

SAM is thrilled to have been selected as the staffing solution for Collaborative Divorce Texas, a nonprofit organization that empowers couples and families to resolve divorce through interest-based negotiation rather than traditional litigation. SAM will deliver a comprehensive range of services, including executive, board and governance, financial management, communications and sponsorship support. https://buff.ly/48hyN3w #championgrowth

The Texas Alliance of Energy Producers recently held its Annual Conference in Fort Worth. This two-day event gathered more than 150 oil and gas producers, professionals, and thought leaders working to promote the domestic oil and gas industry. SAM is proud to provide association management services and support to TAEP in representing the oil and gas industry at both the state and federal levels.

We're thrilled to welcome Leslie Briones as a Finance Coordinator at SAM! Leslie joins the team with a bachelor's degree in finance from Texas State University, past experience in administrative roles, and an active dedication to community outreach and service. Welcome, Leslie! https://buff.ly/4dqTVFx

The AMC Institute recently announced its 2025 Board of Directors, and we’re excited to share that SAM Founder and co-CEO Megan Woodburn, CAE, will continue her board service for the 2025 term. In this role, Megan will have the opportunity to further impact the AMC industry through strategic support for AMCI efforts. #championgrowth

Twenty-eight SAM team members attended the Texas Society of Association Executives’ “New Ideas” Conference earlier this month in The Woodlands, Texas. We connected with industry leaders, networked with fellow association professionals, and dove into innovative ideas. The team was especially proud to support Paulina van Eden Hill, CAE, Chief Operating Officer, who served in her role as current TSAE Chair, and Megan Woodburn, CAE, our Founder and co-CEO, and Emily Armstrong, Communications Manager, who took the stage as session speakers. We are also proud to celebrate the seven staffers who served as Newbie Ambassadors, as well as Katy McDowall, Senior Communications Manager, who was recognized as a 2024 TSAE Rising Lone Star, and Lauren Turner, CAE, CMP, Account Director, for her TSAE board service. Way to go, team! #championgrowth #NewIdeas24

At SAM, we’re proud to partner with several nonprofits and believe in the importance of giving back to the community. Recently, members of the SAM team had a rewarding day volunteering with the incredible organization Mobile Loaves & Fishes! A huge thank you to our hosts for welcoming us and for the meaningful work they do in their mission to provide housing and community to those who need it most.

The SAM team recently spent the day with strategic consultant Sharon Newport as part of our ongoing commitment to fostering a thoughtful, inclusive company culture at SAM. During the half-day retreat, we explored the power of critical conversations to empower us to serve our partners more effectively and grow our personal and professional perspectives. Thank you to AT&T Hotel and Conference Center team, including Director of Sales and Marketing Josh Delgado, for hosting us!

Michele Gonzalez, CMP, Senior Meetings Manager at SAM, has been elected as President-Elect of the MPI Texas Hill Country Chapter for the 2025 board term. Based on her experience, creativity, and integrity, it’s no surprise that her meetings industry peers have elected her to this position. Congratulations, Michele! https://buff.ly/3XFp7fE