By Mary Tucker | Sr. Communications & Content Manager | IAEE
With an impressive IAEE membership spanning 28 years, members of the IAEE Southeastern Chapter praise Yalonde Tanner as a cornerstone of dedication and commitment. She presently serves as Chapter Chair, however, has held various positions on the Board consistently for many years.
Yalonde’s exceptional leadership was showcased as she successfully chaired the 2022 Southeastern Classic, a hallmark event of the chapter. This two-day educational conference not only exemplified her strategic prowess but also granted attendees continuing education credits toward their CEM designation. Under her guidance, the SE Classic blossomed into a platform that provided invaluable educational avenues for the chapter’s membership. Beyond her role as Chair, Yalonde has steadfastly represented the SE Chapter at crucial IAEE Chapter Leader meetings and other key industry events.
Yalonde’s commitment to helping her chapter deliver outstanding benefits to members earned her the IAEE Chapter Merit Award last year, for which he was recognized this past December during Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Dallas, Texas (watch Yalonde’s acceptance speech here).
Here, Yalonde shares with IAEE what she enjoys most about contributing to the IAEE Southeastern Chapter.
What brought you to exhibitions and events industry and what do you enjoy most about the work you do?
Yalonde: Working for an association that believed in my skills and attention to detail.
You have served in every position available on the chapter’s board of directors. How has each role shaped your approach to leadership, and do you have a favorite?
Yalonde: With each position on the board you learn different facets of leadership which is exciting and keeps you energized to continue growing and servicing. I do not have a favorite position.
Chapter members hail you as a pillar of the chapter’s success. What fuels your passion for serving at the grassroots level and what do you consider the greatest benefits of being involved with your local chapter?
Yalonde: Seeing others invest in our industry and getting involved.
The Southeastern Chapter is very active! What does 2024 have in store for chapter members?
Yalonde: Growing involvement in our chapter.
