W.A.C.E. CEO Excited About Future of Association

Every so often, an opportunity presents itself in one’s life that feels like the perfect next step forward.   For me, the chance to assume this role was exactly that moment. 

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I was fortunate to be introduced to WACE very early in my career and to have a board that saw the value in investing in their new CEO’s professional development.  So, just a few months into that journey, I was off to Academy!   The coursework was essential in helping me strengthen the foundations of my work and my Chamber.  The ideas shared by my fellow class members gave me fuel to drive that Chamber to relevance in our community.   Most importantly, the networks and friendships I developed with my class and with faculty members have provided me with life-long mentors as my career progressed.

Since that beginning, WACE has continued to be an essential part of my professional life.   Opportunities to serve on committees and the association board, to join the Academy steering committee and, ultimately, to become a faculty member have allowed me to continue to refine my leadership, to add to my professional networks, and to be able to give back to a profession that has meant so much to me.    All of that culminated this year when I was offered the chance to take that relationship full-time as your next CEO.

WACE now enters its 2nd century serving chamber professionals, and frankly, I couldn’t be more excited or optimistic about our future.   As members of WACE, you should know that you are led by a board that is engaged, committed to driving value for you, and to evolving our services, programs, and traditions in ways that will keep us relevant as the premier organization supporting chambers in delivering on our shared mission.

In the coming months, you will see changes in how local chambers affiliate with WACE.   You’ll also see expansion of programs that you tell us are important and working - and you’ll see changes to programs you tell us aren’t hitting the mark as well as they should.   New programs will come as we identify specific needs and develop responses that address them well.   You will also see increased opportunities for more members to directly engage in making an impact on WACE itself - so get ready because we will be looking for volunteers!
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Fully completing the transition from a managed association to an independent organization will take us a few months and will, undoubtedly, include a full bumps along the road.   Please call us on mistakes we make and let us know how we can support you along the journey.

Glenn Morris, ACE
WACE President & CEO
[email protected]
559.909.1012