Keys to Success in Community Building and Leadership within Associations

Lori Anderson, FASAE, CAE, the President & CEO with the International Sign Association (ISA) is our fantastic guest this week on the Six Degrees of Associations Podcast. Lori’s career began as a music teacher before transitioning into government relations and ultimately taking the helm at ISA. Lori draws parallels between her experiences in music education and leadership, noting that running an association is a lot like conducting an orchestra where each member has a vital role to play. She highlighted the joy of bringing people together for a common purpose, actively engaging with members, and building community—which she believes is the heartbeat of any successful association. She spoke highly of the value of peer networks, emphasizing how vulnerability and open communication among colleagues can significantly impact one’s leadership journey.With over 20 years at ISA, Lori’s passion for her work has not waned; instead, she sees each day as a new adventure. Her tenure reflects a commitment to collaboration and continuous growth, underscoring the importance of creating a culture where everyone feels valued. As Lori said, "If you can be your authentic self, there’s no reason to leave."Learn more about ISA:https://signs.org/