Lori Zoss Kraska, MBA, CFRE

In uncertain economic times, managing meaningful relationships with partners and sponsors is more important than ever for associations. This session will focus on understanding the corporate sponsorship landscape, beginning with an overview of current trends. Lori will share insights on what corporate sponsors seek in association partnerships and provide practical examples of successful sponsorship models. We will then discuss developing a corporate sponsorship strategy with seven actionable steps, techniques for effectively connecting with corporate decision-makers, and tips for maintaining and growing sponsor relationships.

Lori Zoss Kraska, MBA, CFRE

Ashley Morgan, DVM, CAE
Madeline Brezin, JD

In a rapidly shifting political and legislative landscape, veterinary associations must be prepared to pivot as needed, building and maintaining relationships with elected officials, embracing diverse perspectives, and much more. This session will explore strategies and tools that strengthen your association and its members in fulfilling the essential role as effective advocates for the profession. We begin with an overview of effective advocacy, especially at the state and local level, followed by a presentation of available resources and assistance from the AVMA. The final segment will be an interactive exchange of information with VMAE members and partners sharing their experience and advice on a variety of advocacy-related topics such as:

• How to best utilize a political action committee (and should you even have one?)
• In the absence of a PAC, how do you encourage members to donate to legislative candidates?
• Tips on hosting effective legislative events.
• Leveraging your government relations committee and lobbyist.
• Should we conduct advocacy at the city/local level?
• How do we maintain a good working relationship with our veterinary medical board?
• Have you joined any good coalitions lately (or maybe not so good)?
• How to motivate members to engage in advocacy.
• What tech tools are VMAs using to support advocacy efforts?
• All of this sounds great, but we have a small staff and limited budget; what should we prioritize?

Michelle Harcha, DVM, MA, BCC, ACC

In a time of rapid change in the veterinary profession, the role of organized veterinary medicine is more important than ever. This session explores how state, local and national veterinary associations can build deeper, more meaningful connections with recent graduates and foster engagement across every level of membership. We will explore what is working, what could be reimagined, and how to meet the evolving needs of a diverse and multigenerational profession. From mentorship and community-building to acknowledging gender shifts and generational values, we’ll explore practical strategies to help veterinary associations remain relevant, welcoming, and essential.