AMA Board Update: January 2025

January Board Update: Setting the Foundation for a Strong Year Ahead

As we kick off a new year, the AMA Columbus Board has been focused on one core priority: building momentum early and aligning around what matters most to our members.

January is less about flashy announcements and more about fundamentals—strategy, accountability, and making sure we’re setting the chapter up for long-term success rather than short-term wins.

Here’s where we’re focused as we start the year.

Resetting Around Member Value

Every decision we make as a board ladders back to one question: Does this meaningfully serve our members?

In January, we reviewed our programming mix, communications cadence, and membership experience through that lens. The goal is clarity—clear value, clear expectations, and clear reasons to stay engaged with AMA Columbus throughout the year.

This includes tightening how we communicate upcoming events, reinforcing the value of membership at every touchpoint, and ensuring new members feel welcomed and connected early.

Programming with Purpose

Our programming team is finalizing a forward-looking event calendar designed to balance education, connection, and real-world applicability. That means:

• Practical topics marketers can immediately use at work
• A thoughtful mix of local voices and national perspectives
• Formats that encourage conversation, not just consumption

We’re intentionally planning ahead so members can see what’s coming and engage consistently, not sporadically.

Membership Growth (and Retention)

Growth isn’t just about recruiting new members—it’s about retaining the ones who already trust us with their time and investment.

This month, the board aligned on realistic membership goals for the year and discussed how every board member plays a role in recruitment, retention, and advocacy. AMA Columbus grows strongest when the entire board shows up as ambassadors, not just one committee.

Commitment to Inclusion and Representation

A strong chapter reflects the community it serves. In January, we revisited how diversity, equity, and inclusion show up not as a standalone initiative, but as a through-line in leadership, programming, and outreach.

This work is ongoing, and it’s foundational—not optional—to building a chapter that feels welcoming, relevant, and trustworthy.

Looking Ahead

January is about getting the reps in: aligning the board, setting expectations, and building systems that support consistency all year long.

We’re excited about what’s ahead and grateful for the members, volunteers, and partners who make AMA Columbus what it is. If you’re looking to get more involved this year—on a committee, at an event, or behind the scenes—now is the perfect time to raise your hand.

Here’s to a strong start and an even stronger year.