Cadmium University

Upcoming Live Web Events

  • Trends Shaping Engagement & Success: Future-Proofing Your Association Meetings
    Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 10/28/2025 at 3:00 PM (EDT)

    What does it really take to keep association meetings relevant and impactful today? At Cadmium, we’re in constant conversation about this—from hybrid engagement tactics to evolving attendee expectations. Join our panel of industry thought leaders—including the Director of Events at Association Headquarters—for a dynamic discussion on the latest trends shaping association events. This session explores the intersection of technology, personalization, and business strategy. Learn how to elevate engagement, adapt to shifting models, and leverage real-world examples from organizations already embracing innovation. Whether you’re navigating virtual platforms or rethinking your in-person approach, walk away with insights to keep your meetings thriving in a rapidly evolving landscape.

    What does it really take to keep association meetings relevant and impactful today? At Cadmium, we’re in constant conversation about this—from hybrid engagement tactics to evolving attendee expectations. Join our panel of industry thought leaders—including the Director of Events at Association Headquarters—for a dynamic discussion on the latest trends shaping association events. 

    This session explores the intersection of technology, personalization, and business strategy. Learn how to elevate engagement, adapt to shifting models, and leverage real-world examples from organizations already embracing innovation. Whether you’re navigating virtual platforms or rethinking your in-person approach, walk away with insights to keep your meetings thriving in a rapidly evolving landscape. 

    Key Takeaways: 

    • Real-world examples of successful engagement strategies from top associations 
    • How attendee expectations are redefining the event experience 
    • Ways to personalize events through data and technology 
    • Insights on balancing virtual, hybrid, and in-person formats for maximum reach 
    • Strategic takeaways to future-proof your event planning and drive long-term success 

    Ashton Hald, CMP, DES

    Senior Director of Meetings and Industry Relations

    Association Headquarters

    As Senior Director of Meetings and Industry Relations at Association Headquarters, Ashton leads the strategy and execution of high-impact events that drive member engagement, strengthen industry presence, grow revenue, and generate lasting value for associations. She brings more than 15 years of expertise in meeting and event management for associations and nonprofits, joining AH in 2016.

    Before her time at AH, Ashton served with the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), where she helped manage more than forty scientific meetings annually, ranging from 250–500 attendees, as well as the association’s flagship 15,000-person citywide conference.

    Ashton is a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), the industry’s leading credential for excellence in event management, and holds the Digital Event Strategist (DES) certification, recognizing her expertise in designing and delivering engaging online and hybrid experiences. Ashton is passionate about creating meaningful experiences that advance both organizational goals and industry leadership.

    Brooke Passy, CMP, DES

    Senior Meeting Manager

    Association Headquarters

    Brooke Passy, CMP, DES has extensive experience in meeting management, event planning, and coordination, with a background that includes work in the education sector and the service industry. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater Arts, Brooke has held various roles in companies such as AH & Association Headquarters, Council Rock School District, Starbucks Coffee Company, and Southern Oregon University.

    Melanie Ryan

    Meeting Manager

    Association Headquarters

    Melanie Ryan is a seasoned event manager with 11 years of experience in marketing, wedding planning, and customer service. She has a strong background in management, organization, and time management, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from St. Joseph’s University.

    Amanda Law (Moderator)

    Event Marketing Manager

    Cadmium

    Amanda Law combines her expertise in creative event design, bold marketing strategies, and customer-first experiences to drive success at Cadmium. Before joining the company in 2024, she brought two decades of hands-on experience shaping events spanning industries and audiences of all kinds—leading fundraising and mission-driven programs for the American Diabetes Association, producing large-scale events for Lenovo and Biltmore Estate, and teaching event experience and design at Duke University. Along the way, she mastered both the art of meticulous logistics (ask her about planning hillside events around cattle!) and the craft of designing immersive, memorable experiences that spark connection. Amanda holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Appalachian State University and lives in Apex, NC with her husband and two zany kids. In her spare time, she enjoys hand lettering and experimenting with unusual watercolors—a hobby she insists is under control despite an ever-growing collection.