Kathleen “Katie” Herndon, Ph.D., has been named as executive director of the Society of Government Meeting Professionals (SGMP).
In this role, Herndon will be responsible for overseeing SGMP’s administration, programs, and strategic vision. Other duties include membership, marketing, sponsorship/fundraising, and community outreach.
According to a news release, Herndon brings more than 10 years of experience in leading trade associations, non-profits, and professional networks. Prior to accepting this position, she successfully served as executive director of the Marine Technology Society, the Virginia Land Title Association, and the Maryland Land Title Association. Herndon holds a Ph.D. in research psychology and is a certified family mediator. Notably, she served as a consular officer with the U.S. Foreign Service in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and was the recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award.
Herndon officially assumed all leadership responsibilities as executive director effective April 1, 2023. Over the course of the next two months, Herndon will cooperatively work with ASCENT Management (SGMP’s current management company) to ensure all key priorities are properly transitioned. All information related to SGMP headquarters, including contact information, will remain intact leading up to the National Education Conference (NEC) on June 6-8, 2023, in Bloomington, Minn.
Pam Valenzuela, CAE, and ASCENT Management have served as SGMP’S management company for seven years.
“They have been a huge asset to SGMP. We are grateful for the services they have provided, and we wish them the very best,” a news release from SGMP states.
