As CDA's new vice president, thought leadership & strategy, I have the privilege of making sure that you, our members, receive world-class education and first-rate member engagement. This week, I attended one of the most progressive business education conferences in the country. Convening Leaders in Nashville brought together thought leaders in the education and events sector to share ideas on building attendee engagement and top-notch learning programs for associations. The conference also provided enlightening sessions on how to better engage business partners and customers. As consumers' buying habits change, we must adapt and innovate, and the way we provide education for our members must also change. The way you digest information and resources is evolving and we want to make sure we are meeting your needs.

Over the next several months, expect to be engaged in new and original ways. We are finding first-class speakers and are making sure that our topics are relevant and help elevate your businesses. We will be reaching out via surveys and focus groups to make sure we are hitting the mark when it comes to your needs. Most importantly, you will see the way we engage with you at our annual conference, the Convenience Distribution Marketplace, evolve. Make sure to sign up today to be a part of the movement!

If you have ideas to share, speakers to suggest, or feedback, I would love to hear from you. In the meantime, you can always reach me at CarrieA@cdaweb.net. I look forward to implementing the strategies that I learned from the Convening Leaders conference with all of you soon—-stay tuned!