Two years ago, our board chose a single word to guide everything we did: Connect.
It was more than a theme—it was a commitment. We wanted to create a chapter where marketers could build meaningful relationships, where our programs complemented one another, where students could find a pathway into the profession, and where AMA Cincinnati was more connected than ever before to AMA National and chapters across the country.
As I reflect on the past two years, I’m incredibly proud of what our chapter has accomplished.
Together, we strengthened one of the nation’s premier AMA chapters. For three consecutive years, AMA Cincinnati has been recognized as one of the Top Three Chapters in the country—an incredible achievement made possible by the dedication of our volunteers, members, speakers, and partners. That recognition belongs to all of us.
We connected more marketers.
Over the past two years, our chapter hosted 120 events, including more than 100 Communities designed to educate, inspire, and connect marketers throughout Greater Cincinnati, including a new Design Community to bring even more marketers into the conversation.
We expanded opportunities for young professionals by hosting Young Professionals events and a Mentorship program, and invested in local nonprofits and start-ups through our Agency program,
Our events continued to thrive with Pinnacle Awards celebrations, Trailblazer events, Mixed Media Mixers, and the IGNITE! Conference—each one creating opportunities for our community to learn, connect, and grow.
We strengthened our community.
Our chapter continues to grow because of the people who believe in it. Membership is up, and so are our volunteer numbers!
Behind every event and every program is an incredible team of volunteers. During these two years, our chapter was led by an 18-member volunteer board, supported by 42 chapter volunteers. We were fortunate to welcome a returning past president back to the board while continuing to benefit from the wisdom and leadership of four past presidents who remain actively involved today.
Their willingness to give their time, ideas, and energy is what makes AMA Cincinnati such a special organization.
We celebrated marketing excellence.
The 2026 Pinnacle Awards reached new heights, with attendance nearly doubling over the previous year and 10 new companies submitting entries. Watching our local marketing community come together to recognize outstanding work has been one of the highlights of my presidency.
We invested in the future.
One of our priorities was strengthening relationships with the next generation of marketers. Thanks to the leadership of our Young Professionals committee, we deepened our connections with three local collegiate AMA chapters, helping bridge the gap between the classroom and the marketing profession.
These relationships will continue to strengthen our chapter—and our profession—for years to come.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
While these accomplishments are exciting, the numbers only tell part of the story.
Over the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of learning alongside some truly remarkable people. Leading this group has taught me when to speak and when to listen. It has reminded me that great ideas can come from anyone and that the strongest teams are built on diverse perspectives, experiences, and strengths. I’ve had the opportunity to connect with chapter leaders across the country, learn from their successes, navigate unexpected challenges, and celebrate milestones together.
AMA National hosted two Board Leadership Accelerator weekends, equipping incoming leadership with the tools needed to run successful chapters. I was honored to speak at the 2026 event, offering insight into how we navigate the documentation and planning for the Continuing Excellence Awards.
Most of all, I’ve been reminded that organizations don’t thrive because of one person. They thrive because people choose to show up—for one another, for their profession, and for a shared purpose.
Looking Ahead
Serving as President of AMA Cincinnati has been one of the greatest honors of my professional career.
As I pass the baton, I couldn’t be more excited for Betty Rodriguez-Hakes to become our next President. She is a thoughtful, innovative leader who will continue building on this momentum while leading our chapter to even greater heights. I look forward to supporting her and remaining actively involved as AMA Cincinnati continues to grow.
To every member, volunteer, sponsor, partner, speaker, student, and attendee—thank you.
Thank you for investing in this community. Thank you for sharing your talents. Thank you for making AMA Cincinnati a place where marketers connect, learn, lead, and belong.
The past two years have reinforced something I will carry with me long after my presidency ends: the most meaningful thing we build isn’t a program or an event—it’s the connections we create with one another.
I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together next.
With gratitude,
Betsy Wolking
President, AMA Cincinnati (2024–2026)
