2022 Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

The Michigan Society of Association Executives Board of Directors is pleased to announce the 2022 Inductees to the Michigan Association Hall of Fame. Denise McGinn, CAE, Ann Parker, CAE, and Rich Studley will be recognized with this high honor on September 27 during the Diamond Awards Luncheon. "The Review Committee Members and I are thrilled to advance such remarkable association leaders for induction into the Hall of Fame," commented Ara Topouzian, Hall of Fame Review Committee Chairman and Michigan Venture Capital Association Executive Director. "These individuals - each in their own special way - are the embodiment of what the Hall of Fame is about."     

Denise McGinn, CAE, Founder and President of Association Guidance

Denise McGinn, CAE, is the Founder and President of Association Guidance. Throughout her 37 years in the industry, Denise has been passionate about professional growth - for herself and others. She is a Certified Association Executive (CAE) and proctor for the exam, a graduate of the Institute for Organization Management, and Instructor Emeritus of the Academy of Association Management, having taught for 11 years. When Denise served as Chairman of MSAE's Board of Directors in 2019, it was the culmination of nearly three decades of service to MSAE via dozens of committee and board positions. 

 "Denise has continually employed best practices for association management into the development of her business and the associations she manages," said Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO Julie Pingston, CTA, CMP, CDME. "She is never afraid to try new ways, which typically have become standards. She is always seeking ways to advance her profession by engaging in continual education and not being afraid to ask questions on how to make improvements." 

Ann Parker, CAE, COO of the Small Business Association of Michigan

Ann Parker, CAE, has been a leader in the association industry for nearly 30 years. Having spent 27 of those with the Small Business Association of Michigan, Ann's tenure reflects a skill set and breadth of knowledge that spans many disciplines. SBAM's Chief Operating Officer since 2004, Ann previously served as Director of Government Relations and Vice President of Human Resources, respectively. An active member of MSAE and ardent supporter of the industry, Ann has volunteered in many capacities over the years, from serving on committees to presenting and facilitating conversations among colleagues. A Certified Association Executive, Ann has been mentoring CAE candidates for many years and continues that mentorship informally long after candidates have earned their credentials. 

Sarah Hubbard, Principal at Acuitas, describes Ann: "Ann is a tireless advocate on behalf of members of the Small Business Association of Michigan and represents the profession of association management in a way that exudes integrity and confidence. Ann is frequently consulted by other up-and-coming association leaders for her expertise in association financial management and organization. She is viewed as an authority in her role and freely shares her knowledge with those who need it."

Rich Studley, IOM, President & CEO (retired) of the Michigan Chamber

Rich Studley, IOM, is an icon in Michigan's association community, having represented Michigan business in one fashion or another since 1981. Before his retirement, Rich served as the President & CEO of the Michigan Chamber from 2008 thru 2021 and was a frequent contributor to the Capitol Club, MSAE, and Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals. Rich set a high bar for professionalism during his tenure, leading the Chamber to three consecutive accreditation achievements through the US Chamber of Commerce, making it one of only three chambers in the nation to achieve the distinction as many times. Rich established a legacy of involvement in industry groups to help keep associations relevant in Michigan. This included encouraging staff engagement in MSAE and serving as faculty for the US Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organization Management (IOM).

Michigan Chamber COO Bob Thomas, IOM, CAE, CMP, commented on the remarkable nature of Rich'sRich's career. "There are few association leaders with a reputation and career longevity to match those of Rich...His service to Michigan and his leadership among association professionals is one of the most exceptional and remarkable over the last decade."

The Michigan Association Hall of Fame

The Michigan Association Hall of Fame honors those individuals whose association career reflects remarkable achievement, demonstrated a commitment to advancing the profession of association management, made significant contributions and service to MSAE, and have conducted themselves with professionalism and integrity among their peers. MSAE Chairman Scott Ellis endorsed the selection of Studley, Parker, and McGinn: "With their induction, Denise, Ann, and Rich will join a distinguished group who exemplify the very best in association management. With their service to MSAE and unique contributions to the association industry, they are eminently worthy of such recognition."