Meet the Team
The strength of our team is in our diverse pool of talent and expertise.
We come from different backgrounds and specialize in different areas, but we all share a common love for supporting professional communities that change the world in positive ways. Together, we approach each day with a simple philosophy: If you dare to look at things differently, the possibilities are endless.
Max Suzenaar
CEO
John Folks, CAE
President
Sue Dykema, CAE, IOM
Senior
Strategist
Sue Castro
Senior
Strategist
Stephanie Kusibab
Senior
Strategist
Marybeth Sharp
Senior
Research Strategist
Birdie
Chief
Entertainment
Officer
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Why are associations important to me?
I believe in the positive impact associations have on our society, health, well-being, and professional lives.
How have associations impacted my life/career?
As a member and volunteer, associations have guided my personal and professional development. From my early days as a Big Brother to my education as a psychologist, HR executive, and strategic consultant (shout out to APA, SHRM, AMA, PCMA, and ASAE!)
A few words I’d use to describe myself...
Passionate, inquisitive, quick to connect the dots.
When I'm not working...
I love travel, learning about other cultures & religions, nature (my “church”), animals, outdoor activities (skiing, diving, anything water-related), cooking, entertaining – and trying anything for the first time.
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Why are associations important to me?
Associations are the ideal forum to connect people around purpose, many to advance ideas and improve society. It’s a powerful synergy.
How have associations impacted my life/career?
I think my passion for associations might have started as a 10-year old Boy Scout. There was the excitement of meeting new people and learning new things and the fulfillment of volunteerism and feeling a part of a much bigger community. Little did I know it would launch a lifetime commitment and career!
A few words I’d use to describe myself...
An active listener, open to possibilities, problem solver…and fun!
When I'm not working...
Hopefully I’m exploring the world, or in the garden, or hiking with Birdie. I love spending time with family and friends and it’s usually around our dining room table with lots of food, wine, and laughter!
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Why are associations important to me?
They help to shape future leaders and provide valuable resources, networking and training to advance fields and professions to ultimately solve the world’s problems.
How have associations impacted my life/career?
Associations have helped me personally grow and succeed in ways I never imagined.
A few words I’d use to describe myself...
Creative, Strategic, Solutions-driven.
When I'm not working...
I’m outside hiking, traveling, and spending time with my dogs. I love animals!
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Why are associations important to me?
Associations hold the unique role of being able to change the trajectory of a whole industry or profession. I love helping to enable that impact by bringing smart, capable leaders together around the big ideas that move mountains and create a better future for everyone.
How have associations impacted my life/career?
I have learned so much working with talented volunteers and staff teams of associations as a member, director, volunteer, paid staff, and strategy consultant.
A few words I’d use to describe myself...
Driven. Intelligent. Inquisitive.
When I'm not working...
I’m a tiger mom driving my college-age son crazy, visiting Memphis for football games and mock trial tournaments, enjoying a day at the lake, and dreaming of once again checking global destinations off my bucket list.
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Why are associations important to me?
Associations represent an amazing array of businesses, interests and specialties that drive the world. They represent a “tribe” with a focused interest. Being part of such a community is an enriching experience both professionally and personally.
How have associations impacted my life/career?
My exposure to associations started when I answered a two-line ad in a local newspaper while still in college. This was the beginning of my journey from association service provider to working for a professional medical society where I served as Executive Director for 13 amazing years. Membership in PCMA and ASAE provided access to the professional education I needed to excel. Volunteering for those organizations elevated the benefits of membership through the friendships I formed over the years. The people are the “why” for me!
A few words I’d use to describe myself...
Thoughtful, mentor, cheerleader for my team, detailed, and positive.
When I'm not working...
I LOVE to travel and am always working on my next trip. Cruising is one of my favorite ways to “taste test” the world and figure out where I must go back and spend more time. I enjoy painting and caring for our menagerie of 4-legged rescues with my husband.
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Why are associations important to me?
I love what associations represent and do. They have a common goal to serve their members and their respective industries or professions. They provide valuable collaborative opportunities for their communities and I appreciate being a part of this all for one and one for all structure.
How have associations changed my life/career
I have had the opportunity to work with many associations throughout my career and being able to provide strategic direction from member insights continues to be both enriching and gratifying.
A few words I’d use to describe myself...
Analytical. Enthusiastic. Strategic.
When I'm not working...
I spend as much time as possible with my amazing daughters, husband, and puppy (Maddie).
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Birdie
Chief Entertainment Officer
A few words I’d use to describe myself...
A tail-wagging, critter-chasing, mostly obedient, couch potato.
When I'm not working...
I’m outside chasing anything that moves and looking forward to my next belly rub!
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