Impact Report

Through the generous support of its donors, the ASAE Research Foundation sponsors and conducts research in a wide range of areas that empowers foresight, defines effective practices and sustains associations’ value to their industries, professions and society at large.

While research is central to the Foundation’s purpose, it’s not the only way the Foundation advances the work of associations. The following report reflects the broad, positive impact of the ASAE Research Foundation over the past year on the association community.

This is the first impact report since the Foundation underwent an organizational assessment last year to align with ASAE’s strategic framework and continue to play an essential role in the continued evolution of the association sector.

The Foundation’s new mission statement is, “The ASAE Research Foundation transforms the association community through research, scholarships and practical tools critical to our profession.” This statement clarifies that the Research Foundation has three vital functions: research, of course, is key, but it also exists to advance the development and careers of our future talent pipeline via scholarships and grants and provide resources that all of us can use.

Over the course of Fiscal Year 2023, the Foundation distributed more than $38,000 in scholarships and $15,000 in grant monies to deserving individuals in our association community. We’re proud of the ways the Foundation is changing lives and helping to mold the futures of ambitious, career-focused association professionals. This coming year, we will work to increase our scholarship programs to allow greater access to our learning opportunities. As a donor, you can contribute to the future of these professionals and their workforce development through these restricted funds.

The Foundation has also restarted its research function in earnest, and in 2024 we’ll be releasing five new or expanded Drivers of Change. These evidence-based studies are a core part of ASAE ForesightWorks, helping association leaders with environmental scanning and planning for change. We will also be revitalizing a Foundation classic, Seven Measures of Success. In addition, we’re hard at work on a study of accessibility, with a particular focus on neurodiversity.

Helping to manage the Foundation’s important work is a talented and dedicated staff team led by Morgan Maravich, vice president of foundation relations. The team also includes Andrea Wieters, director, strategic and future focused research; Kristopher Nabors, senior manager, grants and scholarships; Travis Major, manager, development operations and donor relations; and Clara Victoria Hunter, foundation operations coordinator.

Of course, none of the Foundation’s important work is possible without the generosity of its individual and organizational donors. An amazing attribute of the association community is its willingness to invest in the future of the profession. For enabling the vital work of the ASAE Research Foundation, we are immensely grateful.

Warm regards,