Welcome Washington Community
On March 1, 2026, the Washington Society for Association Excellence (WSAE) officially merged with Associations West.
We are honored to welcome you to a broader regional community of association professionals serving California, Oregon, and now Washington. Washington’s strong history of collaboration and professional excellence remains an important part of our shared future. This page is a resource for you during the transition.
What to Expect
Like all members of Associations West, Washington member receive communications introducing you to Associations West programs, services, and opportunities.
- Happenings Email – Bi-weekly updates featuring regional and virtual events.
- Update eNews – Weekly AI-curated industry news and resources tailored to your interests.
- Highlights Email – Quarterly organizational updates.
- AW Connect Digest – Community discussions and idea-sharing (customizable frequency).
- Social Media – Follow @associationswest on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
To ensure email delivery please add the AW domain "@myassociationswest.org" to your safe senders list. In Outlook this setting can be found under Home > Block > Junk Email Options > Safe Senders Tab > Add Button.
Discounted Washington Member Pricing
July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027
Industry Partners
Suppliers and vendors to the association industry, typically providing hospitality-based or professional services. Examples include hotels, CVB personnel, financial services, tech and website services, consultants, etc.
First Member: $360
Additional Members: $170/each
Join - Industry PartnerSponsorship Opportunities
Industry Partners in Washington are invited to take advantage of the many sponsorship opportunities in the state and throughout Associations West. We have one Sapphire Partner option and multiple smaller sponsorships left for the Next Wave Conference at Semiahmoo Resort on October 4-6: Next Wave Conference Partner/Sponsor - Associations West. There are also several opportunities available throughout 2026-2027 including other upcoming events. Check out the 2026/27 Sponsorship Prospectus for details. Questions? Contact Andrew Estep.
Upcoming Events + Event Credit
Any Association Professional member that resides in Washington receives a $100 event credit, which can be applied to any Associations West event (valid through 6/30/27). Questions? Contact Jessica Barker.
Washington Events Coming Soon
- September 2 – Peer-Powered Lunch - Non-Dues Revenue in Action, Lacy, WA
- October 4–6 – Washington Conference (Semiahmoo Resort), Blaine, WA
- February 3, 2027 – Social
- March 17, 2027 – Regional Education + Lunch event
- June 4, 2027 – Social
- View the Events Calendar for all all upcoming events
Confluence Magazine
The Spring 2026 issue of The Washington Confluence serves as the final publication of the Washington Society of Association Excellence, capturing more than five decades of leadership, learning, and community. Through stories from past presidents, member reflections, and historical highlights, the issue reflects on the relationships and shared experiences that defined WSAE—and continue to shape the association management community in Washington today. As the Washington region moves forward within Associations West, this publication offers both a meaningful look back and a clear connection to what comes next.
Washington Regional Identity
Washington has its own Regional Council, providing leadership, engagement, and programming within the state. Members are encouraged to participate in volunteer roles, committees, and leadership opportunities across Associations West. Volunteer applications were open March 16-April 20, but are now closed. If you'd like to volunteer in some capacity, reach out to Denize Maldonado.
WSAE Traditions & Their AW Counterparts
We know many members want to understand how familiar programs continue:
- Annual Convention → Next Wave Conference, October 4–6 at Semiahmoo Resort
- Fast Five → Washington Edition of Happenings
- Professional Interest Communities → AW Connect
- Resource Hub → AW Knowledge Hub
- Next Level Leadership → Insights Executive Summit
- Art of Association Management Workshops → Expanded AW In-Person Programming
- Shop Talks → AW Asks
- Partner Zone → Industry Partner Business Directory
Some programs do not have direct counterparts (e.g., WSAE Knowledge Base, DEI Toolkit, and listserv). We continue to evaluate future resource development.
We’re Glad You’re Here
This merger marks a new chapter — one that expands opportunity while preserving the spirit of Washington’s association community. We look forward to learning from you, supporting you, and building a strong future together across the region. For support or question please contact Andrew Estep, CAE, Consultant, Washington Region

