BAE Chicagoland Kicks Off: Join the Movement!

The energy was high as Black Association Executives (BAE) Chicagoland launched at the Association Forum’s Holiday Showcase on December 4, 2025! With a fantastic turnout of 15 enthusiastic attendees, this kickoff meet-up marked the beginning of an exciting new season for BAEs in the region.

Black Association Executives (BAE), based in Washington, DC, began with the desire to create a space for networking and true community for black association executives across the country. BAE Chicagoland is born from the desire to connect black association executives in the Chicagoland area for a more localized experience.  

BAE Chicagoland is led by a dedicated planning committee that includes Jonathan Adams, Cie Armstead, Lawrence Givens, Dawud Lawson, Shawn Sanford, and LaShawn Williams. Their commitment and leadership have set a strong foundation for serving BAEs in Chicagoland and beyond.

During the kickoff meeting, participants discussed strategies for growing the BAE network, shared ideas for upcoming events, and explored how to best support each other. Their creative conversations offered fresh perspectives and ways to align with BAE national.  Chicagoland BAEs are ready to make a positive impact!

If you’re a BAE in Chicago or anywhere in the Midwest, we’d love for you to join our contact list! Reach out to Cie (cie.armstead@owlservations.com) or Shawn (shawn@esbconsulting.org) to get involved and stay informed about future gatherings and opportunities.

Special thanks to the Association Forum—especially Artesha Moore and Phyllis Scott—for generously providing meeting space, and heartfelt appreciation to BAE National for their continued support.

Together, we’re building something amazing—come be a part of it!