Lynda J. Patterson, FASAE, CAE

President and Owner

Currently: Member, ASAE Board of Directors; Fellow, American Society of Association Executives
Alma mater: Undergrad UW-Madison; masters UW-Milwaukee
Family: Husband, TJ; Charlotte; Jayne; Henry; James; & dog,Taetum
What I like to do in my off-hours: Kids activities, try to exercise every day, spend time up north at the lake — on water or snow! Attend UW-Madison Badger sporting events.
I’m known in the office for... Coming up with ideas.
My superpower: Organization, planning
One skill or talent I wish I had: Singing
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Pay it forward. Give to others first in any way you can.
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Starting my own business, and opening our D.C. office in 2017 and purchasing another AMC in Colorado. Flexible with remote staff, fun, casual work environment
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Our team!!!!!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndapatterson/ 

See Lynda's resume.

Kris Ackley

Associate Director

Alma mater: UW-LaCrosse BS in Physical Education, Sports Management emphasis and business concentration
Family: I'm the youngest of 5 siblings spanning 9-15 years difference. They were all born in odd years, so I'm the only normal one in the bunch! My significant other lives out of state in South Carolina.
What I like to do in my off-hours: I'm a certified health coach so I coach clients, workout, or stay busy doing DIY projects as I renovate my condo. I also watch way too much HGTV and Food Network and I love to cheer on the Badgers and Minnesota Vikings. 
Leadership contributions: Board member for Box of Balloons, a children's charity that ensures children are celebrated despite their families' financial abilities
Where I volunteer: Fundraising committee for RivALZ in support of the Alzheimer's Association; social media manager for The Business Forum; secretary of the Walbridge Condominium Association
I’m known in the office for... My matchy matchy outfits or sparkly nail polish
Special recognition: Phyliss Broadbent Award for outstanding service to The Business Forum
Professional titles: Certified Health Coach, Credit Union Development Educator
My superpower: If it can be Googled, I'll find it.
Favorite client experience: I love getting to know clients and having meaningful conversations.
Professional accomplishment I'm most proud of: Planning and executing a gala in Washington, DC for 800+ credit union professionals and volunteers to honor three credit union association presidents who were instrumental in helping their member credit unions, employees, and credit union members recover from Hurricane Katrina. The emotion in the room was something I don't think I'll ever experience again in my lifetime.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: We really live the "work hard, play hard" mantra and I'm excited to be part of the team.

Emily Bardach, CAE

Account Executive/Washington, DC

Alma mater: Wittenberg University in Springfield, OH - BA in Psychology)
Family: Married my college sweetheart and have two boys, Jackson and Tyler
What I like to do in my off-hours: I spend most of my time in a basketball gym watching my boys or supporting my husband who coaches at Marymount University. When I'm not with my family I'm with my girlfriends who keep me sane - traveling, walking and almost always drinking wine!
Leadership contributions: I co-founded a networking group for women who own small businesses in my community called Women Connecting Women (in Arlington, VA)
I’m known in the office for... Walking fast!
My superpower: Listening
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Build strong relationships so that when you need to have a hard conversation the trust and respect is already there
Favorite client experience: Dancing and singing for hours with the "party rocker" at the summer board retreat
Professional accomplishment I'm most proud of: Earning my Certified Association Executive designation and transitioning my client to AMPED
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: The people, the resources and the Workplace app!

Michael Battaglia, CAE , CNAP

Account Executive/DC Executive

Alma mater: George Washington University (BBA and MBA)
Family: Newly married to my wife, Katelyn. I’m the oldest of four children, and my parents still live in Northfield, NJ where I grew up. My wife and her family are from Dallas, TX.
What I like to do in my off-hours: Love to exercise (run, bike, hike, sports), travel and spend time with my wife and our dog, Penny. I also enjoy reading and engaging in hobbies that help my personal and professional development.
Leadership contributions: Lecturer in Management at George Washington University. Working toward my Certified Association Executive designation.
I’m known in the office for... Being responsive and easy to talk to. If I’m doing something, it’s going to be done right. Technology is also a strength and I enjoy bringing innovative ideas to the table.
My superpower: Emotional intelligence and a balanced approach to life; I try to not get too up or too down and try to enjoy every day.
Where I volunteer: Steering Committee member for my neighborhood friend's group called Friends of Hardy
Special recognition: DCA Live 2018 Association Innovator
One skill or talent I wish I had: Time travel/transport. Wouldn’t it be nice to avoid airplanes and airports!
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: People support what they help to create.
Favorite client experience: Being promoted to Executive Director of NIBA. Since April 2017, I’d been on a two-year path to assume the role and was delighted to receive the promotion in June 2018. I’ve felt a real connection to this trade group and their members and I’m excited for this new opportunity. NIBA has seen several advancements in the last year and there’s so much more to come. The Board is planning some new initiatives and has set aggressive goals for growth. I look forward to helping lead our team to achieve them.
Professional accomplishment I'm most proud of: Taking over an academic journal with a falling reputation, and in just over four years, returning it to a premier status in the field with little investment.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: The people! I’m really excited to be a part of this dynamic team and contribute positively to the growth of the organization and its clients. The AMPED team works with an entrepreneurial mindset to help associations drive industries through innovation and core competency.

Jen Brydges

Account Executive

Alma mater: UW-Green Bay (undergrad) and Cal State Los Angeles (grad school); BS Political Science, BS Public Administration, MA Political Science
Family: My fun-loving husband Joe and super spunky daughter Kennedy.
What I like to do in my off-hours: I love family time, community service, time with friends, Badger games of any kind (but football is the best), running, reading (I’m a personal/professional development junkie), entertaining and throwing parties.
Leadership contributions: Junior League of Madison Community (Board Member and Vice President); Madison Area Down Syndrome Society Secretary (Board Member); former Rock County Board of Supervisors elected official
Where I volunteer: Junior League of Madison: All Dressed Up program; Cherokee Middle School Partnership Program; Ronald McDonald House dinner program; Youth Leadership programming; MADSS: World Down Syndrome Day programming, Parent Mentor, Down Syndrome Awareness Walk committee; National Down Syndrome Society: Parent Advocate; Madison Mom's Blog: contributing writer; Leadership Greater Madison civic leadership program graduate (2017)
I’m known in the office for... Being the loud one.
My superpower: I’m a master social coordinator. In my next life, I should be a cruise director.
Favorite client experience: Working to create new programs, helping to bring them to life, and seeing the impact they have on participants. ACTRIMS works hard to support its trainees and wanted to start a program for Residents at their Annual Forum. I worked side by side with the Program Chair to develop the program and experience and helped to bring it to life onsite. The gratitude received from the residents was unbelievable and the program has expanded year after year.
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: “The best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been and the memories we’ve made along the way.” (Author unknown)
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: We are a strong team both professionally and personally. We each bring unique strengths to the table and we get to learn from one another both as professionals and as individuals. We also love to have fun outside of the office, which is a HUGE perk!

Chris Caple

Senior Meetings Manager

Alma mater: Attended University of Wisconsin Madison
Family: Husband Mike and two daughters, Alyvia and Leah, a minipin dog named Bella and cat names Tigger
What I like to do in my off-hours: Watching and cheering for our kids as they participate in various sports. Beyond that, I love catching a sunset whenever I can on one of our beautiful lakes in Madison, exploring bike trails, playing tennis, taking last minute road trips and listening to live music.
My superpower: I can make a mean Bloody Mary.
Where I volunteer: Board Member of Breast Cancer Recovery in Madison, WI
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Live for Life!
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Developing a diverse background of professional experiences.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: The opportunity to work with and build relationships with a variety of our clients. And, the support of the AMPED team.

Rachel Connor

Online Learning/Program Manager

Alma mater: Utah State University
Family: We call ourselves the C-Dogs: My husband and I along with our daughter Madalynn Rae and son Walker John.  Our family motto is work hard, play hard.
Leadership contributions: Working toward my Certified Association Executive designation.
What I like to do in my off-hours: Mountain bike, ski (on snow), camp, take the boat to Lake Powell, Utah, enjoy family and friends.
I'm known in the office for . . . eating, every hour, at least.
Where I volunteer: I have just completed a five-year term as the Vice President of my children's School Board. I am taking a little break and staying open for the next leadership opportunity in my community.
My superpower: Enthusiasm when inspired….and writing letters of recommendation.
One skill or talent I wish I had: I wish I had beautiful and legible handwriting where all my notes were works of art.
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Follow your heart.
Favorite client experience: Watching our award winners take the stage in front of a crowd and be recognized for their achievements for working hard for all the right reasons and never expecting to be honored for it. They are humble and grateful and it is always such a pleasure to work with people like that.
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Continuing to learn and add tools to my tool belt. You will not find me okay with status quo. I like to learn new and better ways to accomplish goals and that has led to many accomplishments with a variety of programs, processes, and bodies of work over the years. And I’m proud of it all! 

Grace Czosek

Intern

Alma mater: Currently attending Belmont University, pursuing a degree in Business Management
What I like to do in my off-hours: I like to spend my time outdoors or with friends. I also really enjoy traveling.
Where I volunteer: I volunteer with my church and do volunteering through my sorority, as well.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: My coworkers are very welcoming and friendly. Also, there are a variety of things to do in the office every day.

Michelle Czosek, CAE

Senior Account Executive

Alma mater: University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana
What I like to do in my off-hours: Spend time with family
I’m known in the office for... My love of warm weather!
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: “Act now, beg forgiveness later” and “There’s no bad weather, just inappropriate clothing!”
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: My co-workers, members and the variety that keeps things exciting every day!

Julia DeBrosse

Executive Intern

Alma mater: Junior at Virginia Tech; Double major in Hospitality and Tourism Management & Business Management, with a concentration in Management Consulting and Analytics
Family: I am the youngest of 3. I have an older brother who graduated from Virginia Tech and an older sister who graduated from East Carolina. My mom works in the hospitality industry and my dad is a CFO.
What I like to do in my off-hours: I play on the women's club lacrosse team at Virginia Tech. I enjoy working out at Orange Theory, boating in the summers, skiing in the winters and going on walks with my dog, Bo.
I'm known in the office for: Being organized, using my reminders app constantly, and never having a messy space.
My superpower: Being a "neat-freak"
Leadership Contributions: Captain of the Women's Club Lacrosse team at Virginia Tech
Where I volunteer: Work alongside other Zeta Tau Alpha members to raise money for breast cancer awareness and education

Yvette Dominquez

Meetings Coordinator

Alma mater: California State University, Los Angeles
What I like to do in my off-hours: Spending time with my family and friends, going to the movies, zumba classes and traveling
My superpower: Attention to detail
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” ― Maya Angelou

Terry Driscoll

Account Coordinator

Family: Irish mother, German father with 3 sisters, one brother. We all agree that we are the funniest people we know
What I like to do in my off-hours: Crochet, weave, read, play with dog
I’m known in the office for…Torturing my Wisconsin co-workers with tales of warm Virginia weather
My superpower: Efficiency
One skill or talent I wish I had: Patience
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Don’t worry about doing something great, do a great many good things.
Favorite client experience: Getting to meet the people I talk with on the phone throughout the year. Attending conferences allows me to get to know the members on a deeper level and to meet, putting a “face to the name.”
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Serving in the U.S. Navy
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Working with so many excellent professional women

Michael Fiez

Marketing and Communications Manager

Alma mater: University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations (and a history minor)
What I like to do in my off-hours: I love movies, fantasy novels, musicals, and all things sports. Throw in a side of cold craft beer, and I'm a happy man.
Leadership Contributions: I'm a writer, editor, and CMO for a football website started by a former NFL player.
Where I volunteer: I work with a couple of young professional groups doing volunteer work surrounding social causes.

Nathan Florek

Marketing Coordinator

Alma mater: University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Bachelor's of Business Administration with a major in Business Management and a certificate in Business Analytics
Family: I grew up in a very philanthropic household, my dad runs a non-profit in Madison that serves individuals with substance abuse disorders and my mom is a Physical Therapist in the Sun Prairie Area School District. I am very close with my parents and my siblings as well as my extended family. We like to take weekends at my parents cabin in Northern Wisconsin.
What I like to do in my off-hours: I like to stay active and moving and if I can do that on the water even better. I love to spend my summers skiing, tubing, fishing, and riding on my ATV.
My superpower: Making people laugh

Jackie Fowler

Account/Membership Coordinator

Alma mater: Sweet Briar College. B.A. International Relations and Business Management, Minor in Economics
What I like to do in my off-hours: Travel and embroider a record of it on my travel pillow
I’m known in the office for: Being a Jackie-of-all-trades
My superpower: Finding strange things to do in new places
Professional accomplishment I'm most proud of:  Onboarding a new employee at my client's office, teaching her and watching her exceed everyone's expectations
My favorite thing about working at AMPED: The workplace culture

Jenny Frey

Meetings Manager

Alma mater: University of Florida: BS in Recreation and Event Management; Dual Specialization: Tourism and Hospitality Management
Family: Husband Aaron and cat Ramona
What I like to do in my off-hours: Explore Madison restaurants, attend concerts/art festivals/baseball games, cook and recently got into DIY crafting!
I’m known in the office for: Writing everything down, asking lots of questions, making lists and my crazy cat decor :)
My superpower: Proofreading and music trivia!
Favorite client experience: Helping attendees learn something they can use in their professional career.
Professional accomplishment I'm most proud of:  Implementing a streamlined solution to a current process.
Professional growth: Working toward completing my Certified Meeting Planner designation

Jordan Haag

Program and Communications Manager

Alma mater: University of Wisconsin-Madison, BA in Strategic Communications and Reporting
What I like to do in my off-hours: Travel non-touristy areas, find delicious hole in the wall restaurants, and go to happy hour
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: It’s not the destination, it’s the journey
Favorite client experience: Being onsite during client meetings to see all our hard work come together, making a valuable attendee experience
I’m known in office for… Creating a forest in my office
My superpower: Forgetting to drink coffee and still being able to make it through the day
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Working with such welcoming and talented people that inspire me to grow within the industry

Suzanna Hogendorn

Executive Administrator

Alma mater: University of California at Davis, and University of Wisconsin-Madison
Family: Husband - Courtney.  Kids - Bennett, Darcy, Colin, and Tristan
What I like to do in my off-hours: Attending tennis tournaments (I have been to the U.S. Open, Roland Garros, Cincy and Indian Wells), playing tennis, running, spin classes, and working on home improvement projects.
I’m known in the office for...Taking the draft of our football fantasy league very seriously, bringing in snacks from Costco, and being a Swiftie
My superpower: Repairing and refurbishing old furniture.
One skill or talent I wish I had: A great singing voice.
Professional accomplishment I'm most proud of: Being able to independtly resolve problems and complete any project thrown at me
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: It is a Mark Twain quote, "If it is your job to eat a frog, it is best to do it first thing in the morning. And if it is your job to eat two frogs, it is best to eat the biggest one first.”  Meaning, do your worst task first thing in the morning. 
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: My brilliant co-workers, fitness Fridays and our office space in Middleton Center.

Cora Kinney

Office Manager/Accounting Assistant

Alma mater: Currently working toward a Bachelor's in Marketing from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater
Family: I grew up on the west side of Madison with my mom (Carla), sister (Elle), and brother (Thomas). We enjoy staying active, watching sports especially the Badgers, and having competitive family game nights. We value supporting our community by finding new local restaurants to try out.
What I like to do in my off-hours: I enjoy being active outside, working out, and spending time with my friends and family, as well as attending church on Sundays.
My superpower: My magnetic personality!
Leadership contributions: I teach a fitness class twice a week, where I push my clients to be the best and strongest versions of themselves.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: The talented people I work with and the collaborative environment.

Karie Krantz

Association Manager

Alma mater: Indiana University - BS Business (Computer Information Systems, International Business, French)
Family: My husband, Steve, and I live in Madison with our three wonderful boys - Clay (17), Tanner (15), & Dylan (13) - and our 2 dogs - Bella & Sadie.
What I like to do in my off-hours: Travel, workout at Orangetheory, read, spend time outdoors and with friends
Where I volunteer: I do a lot of volunteer work at Edgewood High School
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: This is such a brilliant business model, incorporating shared costs and resources in the nonprofit world. AMPED delivers with a fun team of people who like to be busy, solve problems, improve efficiencies, and get things done!

Christina McCoy, CAE

Account Executive

Alma mater: B.A. Public Relations and Organizational Communication; B.A. Telecommunications, University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
Family: Loving husband, daughter Joanna and sons James and Logan. No pets yet… maybe we’ll get a dog when the kids are old enough to help.
What I like to do in my off-hours: Take walks, host game-nights with friends, and listen to the "Stuff You Should Know" podcast. I also pretend to be good at yoga.
Leadership contributions: Past chair, American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) - Young Professionals Advisory Committee.
Special recognition: 40 Under 40 - class of 2017 (Association Forum & USAE), 2016 ASAE NextGen Alumni, 2017 ASAE NextGen Mentor
I’m known in the office for... Having a very clean and organized workspace.
My superpower: Cleaning and organization. I’m basically the character “Monica” from Friends on a less dramatic scale.
One skill or talent I wish I had: To actually be good at yoga, especially the really advanced poses like upside-down balances and holds.
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: You do you. Be your authentic self.
Favorite client experience: Onboarding new members to the Board. It’s exciting to work with such passionate individuals who are filled with new ideas and inspiration toward leading the association into the future.
Professional accomplishment I'm most proud of: Earning the CAE credential early in my career.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: The friendships I’ve made.

Kristin McGuine

Creative Services Manager

Alma mater: UW-Madison, same as my grandma (during Prohibition), husband (we met in the dorms) and both our sons. One fun fact my grandma shared with me was that Tripp Commons in Memorial Union was THE place guys took a dinner date to really impress. Another was that she sometimes snuck out of Barnard Hall after curfew to visit a basement speakeasy somewhere off Regent.
Family: Husband Patrick and two sons. We don’t have any pets, although over the years we’ve had fish, birds, a tree frog and a leopard gecko, whose name was Stripe even though he was spotty.
What I like to do in my off-hours: Family - Friends - Active Lifestyle - Outdoor Activities- Hiking - Biking - Kayaking - Paddle-boarding
I’m known in the office for... Being easy to work with, getting it done, and listening to Jimmy Buffet on my PC.
My superpower: Making people smile
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Something is only a big deal if you let it be a big deal.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Cliché, perhaps, but it’s the people. Every single co-worker of mine is competent, collaborative and supportive. It makes all the difference in the world. I love that!

Brittany Marsala Olson

Meetings Director

Alma mater: Edgewood College - Bachelor of Science: Communication Studies;  Minor: English
Family: Dan (husband); George and Olive (four-legged fur babies)
What I like to do in my off-hours: Entertain, try new restaurants (especially brunch spots!), travel
I’m known in the office for... My spunky (maybe sometimes sassy?) personality
My superpower: Details
Favorite client experience: The process of a meeting or event begins as an idea. I love being a part of its evolution into a valuable attendee experience.
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Words of wisdom written by my grandfather before he passed away. “Do your best with all the challenges in life. We all have them. Respect others and they will respect you. Be there for your family and friends. We need each other. Enjoy life! There is so much we take for granted. Get up in the morning and thank God. Then go out and live life to its fullest. It’s the only one you have.”
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Co-workers that are like family!

Amy Motyka, CMP

Meetings Manager

Alma mater: B.S., Marketing, University of Maryland, College Park; Master of Tourism Administration (M.T.A.), George Washington University
Family: Husband Matt, two children (Bobby, Quinn) & cocker spaniel (Zoey)
What I like to do in my off-hours: When I’m not traveling for conferences, I enjoy getting the kiddos out and about for family fun.
I’m known in the office for... Remaining calm under pressure
My superpower: Organization
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Believe in yourself
Professional accomplishment I'm most proud of: My growth as a planner while supporting SYTA's Annual Conference - from meetings coordinator to overall project lead within 5 years
What is your favorite thing about working at AMPED: Feeling inspired by truly amazing colleagues

Olivia Mueting

Membership and Communications Coordinator

Alma mater: UW-La Crosse; B.A. in marketing and minor in communications
Family: I grew up in McFarland with my parents, sister, and brother (my parents had three kids under 3 years old!). We are a very active family and were always busy with sports and extra curriculars. I am getting married in October to my high school sweetheart, and we recently adopted a 2-year-old puppy!
What I like to do in my off-hours: I enjoy boating, running, reading, traveling, and exploring local shops and restaurants.
My superpower: Coming up with good snack ideas
Accomplishment I'm most proud of: Finishing my first half marathon 2 years ago
What is your favorite thing about working at AMPED: The people - everyone is so kind, welcoming, and talented.

Jayne Patterson

Finance

Alma mater: University of Wisconsin - Madison
What I like to do in my off-hours: Work out, bake, attend Badger sporting events.
I’m known in the office for... Making people laugh
My superpower: Ability to negotiate with the best of them — like Brittany!
One skill or talent I wish I had: Dance: Hip-hop or ballet
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Live and learn.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Traveling and meeting members onsite at meetings

TJ Patterson

Consulting Partner

Alma mater: Ripon College, Ripon, WI
What I like to do in my off-hours: Watch our kids grow in all aspects of their lives, be outdoors, support Lynda in her successes at AMPED.
I’m known in the office for... assembling office furniture without reading instructions and saving all the left-over parts (why do they ship those?)
My superpower: “MacGyvering” concepts into reality
One skill or talent I wish I had: Ability to play piano or guitar
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: "It's not mine to judge."
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Learning the lost art of sawing lumber in my younger days.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: The dedication of the staff and watching our clients exceed their objectives with our services!

Emily Petersen

Chief of Staff

Alma mater: Bachelor of Science, Retail and Entrepreneurship, University of Wisconsin-Madison
What I like to do in my off-hours: Cook (eat), travel (beach, mountain, desert – anywhere!), host people at my home for a meal or happy hour.
Where I volunteer: Hands on Nashville, Nashville Food Co-Op
I’m known in the office for... Being an Excel wizard. Seriously… I use Excel for everything. It’s a sickness, really. Formatting? Formulas? I’m your girl.
My superpower: I make a mean spicy margarita.
Favorite client experience: I love working with new clients and onboarding them onto our teams, systems and processes and really seeing the difference we can make right off the bat! As a remote employee, I also love being onsite at client meetings because it’s a chance to see both members and colleagues that I rarely get to see.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: The people! Everyone at AMPED is so passionate about (and good at!) what they do and, as cheesy as it sounds, it is inspiring to be around. The cherry on top is that we all get along well outside of work, too, and are known to spend time with each other after hours.

Diana Peterson

Client Support Specialist

Alma mater: B.S. in Business Administration, UW Platteville; Marketing emphasis, Minor Psychology
Family: My husband Wayne and 2 adult daughters
What I like to do in my off-hours: Travel to warm beach locations, concerts, good food and wine, creating whatever!
I’m known in the office for... A variety of aromas wafting from my office (good I hope!—essential oils)
My superpower: I truly thrive on making others feel special – it’s a good day if I can make someone smile 😊
One skill or talent I wish I had: Painting, as in painting a wall — can’t do it!
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Take time to be creative! 
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Our sweet new office space in downtown Middleton! Also, being surrounded by incredible talent every day, plus the variety of work and clients we serve.

Laura Ransone

Account Executive

Alma mater: B.S. in Business, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Virginia Tech, MBA, George Mason University
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair. - Shirley Chisholm
Where I volunteer: Assistant High School Field Hockey Coach; Middle School Field Hockey & Basketball Coach; Advisor, Alpha Delta Pi; Assistant Commissioner Arlington Field Hockey Association
Special Recognition: 2019 Washington Women in PR Emerging Leader Awardee - In House Communications & PR; 2018 Rising Star in the Meeting Industry, Meetings & Conventions
Favorite Client Experience: Working with the strong, powerful and wonderful women of Women in Government Relations

Erin Roosa

Association Administrator

Alma mater: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Christopher Newport University
Family: I am the oldest of three siblings with two younger brothers, Jack and Sam.
What I like to do in my off-hours: Spend time with my friends and family and take my dog, Wally, on hikes at Great Falls.
Favorite Client Experience: Being able to learn from the incredible and inspiring women of Women in Government Relations.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Working in beautiful Old Town Alexandria!

Amanda Safa

Senior Meetings Manager

Alma mater: Iowa State University (undergrad) and Loyola University Chicago (grad)
Family: Fun-loving, hard-working husband, Mike
What I like to do in my off-hours: Spend time with family and friends, watch the Chicago Cubs (win the World Series) and eat
Professional goals: Working toward completing my Certified Meeting Planner designation
I’m known in the office for... My hotel routine to ease my fear of germs. I wrote an AMPED blog with a few of my travel tips, but I only shared a glimpse of my somewhat ridiculous routine when I first step into a hotel room.
One skill or talent I wish I had: As much as I love to eat, I’m a mediocre cook. I wish I could whip up a delicious meal with ease and confidence.
Favorite client experience: Each client meeting that I've been involved with in planning is a favorite experience. We get to see all of the work from many hands come together and experience the end result. 
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Wake up with purpose and choose to be happy each day.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: The people. So much talent and dedication to help our associations grow and perfect operations, all while having a great team to laugh with and celebrate professional and personal successes!

Trevor Schachner

Association Coordinator

Alma mater: The University of South Carolina. B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and M.S. in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
What I like to do in my off-hours: I am a musician and composer and love to spend time practicing. I also love hiking!
My Super Power: Math. I've spent a lot of time working with math.
Where I volunteer: I love to teach music to high school students whenever possible. I have been involved with teaching since college and continue to do so in my spare time.
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: So far, I love the people at AMPED. They have made me feel welcome from day one!

Donté Shannon, FASAE, CAE

Account Executive

Alma mater: Undergrad - College of Charleston (Charleston, SC)
Currently: Chair, ASAE CAE Commission; DELP Scholar, 2011-2013
Family: Spyder, my 11-year-old Pitbull/Chinese Sharpei mix
What I like to do in my off-hours: Work on my own non-profit organization, watch TV and play with my dog.
I’m known in the office for... Being heavily involved with ASAE
My superpower: Crisis management and patience
One skill or talent I wish I had: Computer programming/coding
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Being elected Chair of the association industry credentialing body
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: The fun and innovative culture
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dontepshannon/

See Donté's CV.

Nate Sperloen

IT Director

Alma mater: Xavier’s school for gifted youngsters
What I like to do in my off-hours: Work
I’m known in the office for... Rolling up my sleeves. Literally.
Leadership roles: Owner, Remachines
My superpower: The ability to translate the language of Nerd for others
One skill or talent I wish I had: A better vertical
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: “Know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ‘em.”
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Running my own business
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Everyone has their own unique talents.

Gina M. Staskal, CNAP

Finance Manager

Alma mater: Lakeland University - Bachelors in Accounting
Family: Husband Jim and son Eric and wife Carly in Washington state. I'm #4 of 5 and blessed to have most of my family close by.
What I like to do in my off-hours: BPO Elks functions, family, the outdoors and lighthouses!
I’m known in the office for... Not giving up but not afraid to ask for help.
My superpower: Able to fix most anything.
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: "It's easier to ask for forgiveness than permission" and "You do what you think is right"
Leadership Contributions: Secretary, Beaver Dam Elks Lodge; State Chair of (WEA) Wisconsin Elks Association Government Relations Committee; Treasurer for WEA Central District; Treasurer for WILD (Wisconsin Lighthouse District).
Recognitions: WEA Secretary of the Year 2017-18. Published in the American Payroll Association newsletter
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Finishing my bachelor's degree while working full time and tending to family.

Amanda Stimart

Meetings Manager

Alma mater: Master of Arts in Liberal Studies, University of Miami
Family: I come from a very large extended family though I am an only child. I have more cousins than I can count! My husband and I recently adopted a Border Collie/Labrador puppy who was rescued from Puerto Rico after the recent hurricanes.
What I like to do in my off-hours: I love to go treasure hunting at flea markets. I volunteer through the Junior League of Washington at historical Old Town Alexandria museums. I am also teaching myself calligraphy.
Where I volunteer: Member, Junior League of Washington; Volunteer, Historical Alexandria Docents Committee
I’m known in the office for... Always having the best snacks!
My superpower: Eternal optimism.
One skill or talent I wish I had: I wish I could sing. I still do it, but it’s not pretty. No American Idol here!
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first.
Favorite client experience: The NIBA 2018 Annual Convention. There were many moving parts, but it was brilliant to see it all come together and see happy attendees enjoying the hard work we spent on the front-end. We also had a small, but efficient team onsite to pickup tasks and get the job done. Great teamwork!
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Organizing and conducting successful educational conferences in low resource locations such as South Africa, Indonesia, Malaysia and Mozambique.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED:The people! I am grateful to work with talented and genuine people who truly love what they do.

Kim Striebel

Finance Manager

Alma mater: Adrian College, BA Accounting; UW-Madison, MBA-Finance
Family: Husband, Dan and two adult sons
What I like to do in my off-hours: Read, snowshoe, walk, spend time with family
I’m known in the office for… “In your face” sweaters
My superpower: Efficiency, a need to tie down the little things, Excel
One skill or talent I wish I had: I wish I was better at the advice I was given below.
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Attack and embrace the project that you know nothing about. It’s all about continuing to learn. Wish I was better at it.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Lynda and her staff. They feel like family.

Kim Thompson

DC Managing Director / Client Services Specialist

Alma mater: UW-Madison
Family: Married to a former Madisonian, Bill; one daughter, Carly; and one son, Will
What I like to do in my off-hours: Re-purposing vintage finds, running, tennis, spectator at kids’ sporting events
My superpower: Multi-tasking, problem solving, juggling several businesses at once
Best piece of advice: Life rewards risk; don’t be afraid to aim high and go for it!
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Running multiple businesses at once and helping AMPED open the new DC office in Old Town Alexandria.

Chris Turek

Marketing and Communications

Alma mater: Sam Houston State University, BBA in Information Systems Management
Family: My family and I live in Traverse City, Michigan where my wife and my little boy love the outdoors and living the #PureMichigan life. From kayaking to hiking to fishing - we are always outside doing something fun.
What I like to do in my off-hours: I am an avid fisherman and outdoorsman always looking for that next outdoor adventure.
Where I volunteer: I love to advocate for renewable energy in my local community and educate people on the role our energy use and production affects our planet
Special recognition: In my final year of military service in the U.S. Army I was awarded the soldier of the year award.
I’m known in the office for: Being the guy who loves analytics a little too much.
My superpower: Fish-finder sonar vision
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: It is better to have and not need than to need and not have
Favorite client experience: AEMP Technician of the Year ceremony 2016 watching the family of the award recipient cry with happiness watching their dad get the award and giving him a big hug. Priceless!
Professional accomplishment I'm most proud of: Launching the AEMP Online University and hitting conference registration records for attendance.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: I love how the AMPED team rallies around each other to get things done. The support network is amazing!

Tony Veroeven

Membership. Sales and Marketing Manager

Alma mater: Bachelor's of Business Administration - Marketing, Edgewood College
Family: Married to Rhonda. Have two sons: Brendan and Andrew
What I like to do in my off-hours: Boy Scouts, Martial Arts, camping, kayaking, running
Leadership contributions: 2019-20 President-Elect, AMA Madison; Assistant Scoutmaster, Boy Troop 155
Where I volunteer: AMA Madison, Boy Scouts, American Red Cross, Northwest Dane Senior Services
Special recognition: Inbound Certified; Google Adwords Certified; working toward Certified Association Executive designation
I’m known in the office: I have a particular set of skills; for fixing computers, taking care of bugs, moving furniture, and taking on new challenges.
My superpower: Pop culture knowledge and movie quotes
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: When I was 13 I was taught how to give a proper handshake.
Favorite client experience: I was recently asked to assist in the transition of a new client. The retiring executive director and staff made us feel so welcome and trusted to continue the association’s success, while being very open to change and improvement.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: Trust. All of my coworkers are rock stars at what they do. Lynda knows we will exceed our clients’ expectations every day.

Emily Viles-Monari

Association Manager

Alma mater: BA in Political Science, BA in Spanish, UW-Madison
Family: Max, my husband and two fur-babies, Bowie and Stevie
Leadership contributions: 2016-2018 WSAE Young Professional Task Force Chair
Special recognition: 2017 WSAE Young Professional Award, Association Forum/USAE's Forty Under 40; ASAE Next Gen participant
My superpower is: Knowing when there is food in the office and getting there before everyone else does.
Celebrity you’ve been told you look like: Marion Cotillard, Kat Dennings, Emmy Rossum, Madonna…I must have missed my calling as a celebrity.
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Being selected for the 2018 Class of Forty Under 40
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: My favorite thing about working at AMPED is being surrounded by such talented and innovative colleagues – whom are also my friends!

Jeanne Weiss

Communications and Marketing Director

Alma mater: BA in Telecommunications and Journalism, Mount Mary University
What I like to do in my off-hours: Watch classic movies; experiment in the kitchen; read kitchy, vintage cookbooks
Where I volunteer: Middleton Outreach Ministry clothing closet, Middleton High School Choral Boosters
Special recognition: ASAE Gold Circle Award recipient
I’m known in the office for...Telling it like it is.
My superpower: I'm a mom.
Best piece of advice anyone ever gave me: Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you.
Favorite client experience: More than anything, I love showcasing what my team is capable of. When we can take things to the next level for a client — a website, a publication or a meeting — it's extremely gratifying.
Professional accomplishment I’m most proud of: Around 1990, when “cut and paste” literally meant “scissors and glue,” I recognized early the need to transition to electronic publishing. I taught myself how to use the first version of Pagemaker (flashback!) and launched one of the first creative services departments in association management.
Favorite thing about working at AMPED: I really love everyone I work with, and I know how blessed I am to be able to say that.