You couldn’t help but be moved by the range and passion of Mikky Ekko’s vocals and performance. If you haven’t heard the melodic sound of the Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter and indie pop artist, you’re missing out. His raspy, alluring voice, accompanied by the soothing rhythms of Kyle Ryan on acoustic guitar, captured everyone’s senses and attention in much the same way the monumental contributions of the association industry touched our hearts that same night (October 5, 2016). The population of the sold-out room was paralyzed with delight.
Indeed, Mikky was a fitting performer at the 17th Annual ASAE Summit Awards.
It was my first ASAE event, and it couldn’t have been more impressive. The National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. was a stunning backdrop and the perfect destination to more than 1,100 association executives, as well as business and industry leaders.
Those there gathered to recognize the valuable and charitable programs fellow non-profit associations donated to society during the past year. And in doing so, raised more than $750,000 for The Power of A Fund (which provides resources ASAE needs to lobby Congress, activate grassroots networks, hold forums with elected officials, perform research and continue to share The Power of A message).
Throughout my career, I’ve belonged and contributed to numerous associations. But, seeing so many in one place, having accomplished so many wonderful things and asking for nothing in return, truly moved me.
Along with many associations each winning a Power of A Gold or Silver Award, six distinguished organizations were honored with a 2016 Power of A Summit Award. They were the: American College of Chest Physicians; American Counseling Association; Association for Corporate Growth; Indiana CPA Society; National Association of State Boating Law Administrators; and Public Library Association.
The diversity, scope and scale of the organizations in attendance and those honored were as sundry as the sounds and three-set performance shared by Mikky. I felt humbled by the magnitude of the event and the breadth of the many contributions made locally, nationally and globally. At the same time, I’m proud to be affiliated with the ASAE Foundation through YourMembership’s meaningful contributions to its cause.
In parting, YourMembership would like to thank all of the 2016 Power of A Award winners, the distinguished leaders of the ASAE, and the individuals and organizations that continue to support the ASAE Foundation. And thank you Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp and Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center for selecting Mikky to entertain us.
That magical night, Mikky and Kyle’s sounds conveyed the power of people working in harmony to serve others.
