Association Forum Names Denise LeDuc Froemming as 2026 Woman of Influence™

Association Forum proudly announces Denise LeDuc Froemming, CPA, CAE, President & CEO of the California Society of Certified Public Accountants (CalCPA), as the recipient of the 2026 Woman of Influence Award. This prestigious honor recognizes extraordinary association leaders whose influence, integrity, and leadership elevate both their organizations and the broader association community. 

“Denise exemplifies the spirit of the Woman of Influence Award—a leader who not only drives mission-focused results but creates environments where others can grow, contribute, and thrive,” said Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO of Association Forum. “Her dedication to empowering talent, innovating boldly, and shaping a more inclusive future for our profession has made a lasting impact.” 

Froemming’s career embodies transformational leadership—modernizing organizations, strengthening cultures, and nurturing inclusive pathways for future leaders. Her executive roles at CalCPA, the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM), and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) have been marked by daring innovation, governance reform, and an unwavering commitment to people-first leadership. Froemming also served as Association Forum’s Board Chair in 2022, further demonstrating her long-standing dedication to advancing the association profession. 

“Denise leads with clarity, purpose, and a generosity of spirit that brings out the best in everyone around her. She invites people to think bigger and approach challenges with intention, and she does it with grace. Her impact is already felt across our profession; in the leaders she’s developed, the standards she’s elevated, and the community she’s strengthened. This recognition is a true reflection of who she is and the excellence she brings to our field,” said Michelle Mills Clement, FASAE, CAE, RCE, 2025-26 Chair, Association Forum’s Board of Directors. 

Froemming will be formally honored at Association Forum’s 2026 Women’s Executive Forum™ on March 13, 2026, at Chicago’s Convene Willis Tower. This year’s theme, Legacy in Motion, perfectly reflects the enduring impact of her leadership. Throughout her career, she has created momentum—lifting others, opening doors, and sparking positive change that will shape the next generation of professionals. Her story demonstrates that a true legacy is built not through titles or accolades, but through empowering people, driving purpose, and making a meaningful difference. 

“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive the 2026 Woman of Influence Award,” said Froemming. “The association community has shaped my career and my heart. This recognition reflects the collective work of mentors, colleagues, and the incredible professionals I’ve been privileged to serve alongside. Together, we are building a strong, inclusive, and future-ready profession, one that is built to last.” 

The Woman of Influence Award recipient will also be recognized at Association Forum’s annual Honors Gala™ on June 25, 2026, one of the association industry’s most celebrated traditions. 

The Woman of Influence Award was previously awarded to Cie Armstead, DBA, and Founder & Principal of Owlservations, LLC; Wendy-Jo Toyama, MBA, CAE, FASAE, CEO of the American Epilepsy Society; Jacqualine Price Osafo, MBA, CAE, Executive Director of the Society of American Archivists;  Robin L. Rone, Executive Director of Apra International and Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Smithbucklin; Mary Lynn Fayoumi, CAE, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, President and CEO of HR Source; Deborah J. Bowen, FACHE, CAE, President and CEO of the American College of Healthcare Executives; Kathleen T. O’Loughlin, DMD, Executive Director of the American Dental Association and to Dawn Sweeney, President and CEO of the National Restaurant Association. 

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