Welcome Washington Community

On March 1, 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, Nevada, and Washington.

Washington’s strong history of collaboration and professional excellence remains an important part of our shared future. This page is designed to guide you through the transition and highlight what’s next.

What to Expect

Over the next few months, you’ll 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

Association Professionals

Join - Association Professional

Join - Association Unlimited
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 Partner

Upcoming Events

All Washington members that transitioned over during the merger receive a $100 event credit (valid through 6/30/27). Questions? Contact Jessica Barker

Washington Events Coming Soon

  • August 28 – Peer Lunch
  • October 4–6 – Washington Conference (Semiahmoo Resort)
  • February 3, 2027 – Social
  • March 17, 2027 – Elevated Lunch
  • June 4, 2027 – Social
  • View the Events Calendar for all upcoming events

Washington Regional Identity

Washington will have 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 will be open March 16-April 20.

Volunteer

WSAE Traditions & Their AW Counterparts

We know many members want to understand how familiar programs continue:

  • Annual Convention → Washington Conference (Oct 4–6 at Semiahmoo)
  • 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.

Tell Us Your Story

The Spring 2026 issue of The Washington Confluence will be the final edition. We invite you to share your WSAE story — how membership shaped your career, a favorite memory, or a meaningful moment.

Submit a short paragraph (75–125 words) to andrew@myassociationswest.org by March 23, including your name, organization, position, and (optional) headshot.

Let’s celebrate WSAE’s legacy together!

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