Client Stories

Don’t take our word for it. Here are a few examples of how Smart Association Management makes a difference for our clients.

The Geographic Society of Chicago

It’s All About Location
When the 115-year-old Geographic Society of Chicago (GSC) was looking for a change in management, the pros at Smart Association Management were there to help chart a new course for the organization. We began by reinventing the organization, taking on an extensive rebranding effort to rethink all of GSC’s programs and publications.

In two years, our team also helped GSC revise its bylaws, renovate the website, and establish its first-ever Geographic Visionary Award event, which honored journalist and documentary film producer Bill Kurtis.

Now, Smart Association Management assists GSC with all of its programming, including its Geosphere and Giant State Traveling Map programs, and coordinating Bioblitz events.

“Jay Lyon has been a tremendous asset to the Geographic Society of Chicago. His knowledge of how to manage boards, connections to additional services and resources, and quiet leadership have been instrumental in our transformation over the past year. In addition to his creativity and work ethic, Jay is also a joy to be around. I appreciate his partnership and look forward to continuing to work with him and his team.”

Jillian Elder, Walgreens
(Former) President, The Geographic Society of Chicago

West Suburban Association of Plumbing Contractors

Leading Contractors Out of the Woods and Into the Future
Formed in 1933, the West Suburban Association of Plumbing Contractors (WSA) was revitalized with new leadership in 2013, turning to Smart Association Management for its organization management needs.

In a span of five years, TSA established a number of new programs for WSA, including a Safety Materials Program, as well as educational initiatives on construction site safety – through a series of animated safety messages that present familiar concepts in new and interesting ways.

In 2018, TSA conceived and implemented WSA’s CEO Camp, a conference aimed at those currently at the management level, or up-and-comers who’ve been identified as future management. The program received rave reviews, and it is now a cornerstone of WSA’s annual education offerings.

“Smart Association Management really turned things around for us. They helped us focus on the needs of our contractor members and provide programs and services that would help them compete more effectively in the market. Our Safety Materials Program is a case in point. Members appreciate the no-cost tools and resources, which provided real savings on an annual basis … a win for our members and a win for WSA.”

Steve Marquardt, AMS Mechanical Systems, Inc.
Immediate Past President, WSA

Get in touch … we’re here when you need us!

205.797.6278 | info@thesmartassociation.com
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3759 N Ravenswood Avenue, Suite 129
Chicago, IL 60613

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Smart Association Management helps nonprofit associations work smarter and get the most for their money by keeping staffing costs in check so budgets can be used for things that matter most to members: benefits and programming.

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