Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/169596
Like her colleagues, Taylor values the relationships she At MEDC, she works as a statewide advocate for has forged through MSAE. economic development groups and chamber of commerce professionals. "The people of this organization make it easy to get involved and stay involved," Taylor said. "They're the "I enjoy the opportunity each day to work with best!" professionals throughout the state who are creating opportunities and improving quality of place in their communities and, ultimately, our state," she said of her From DC to MEDC new job. Still others are learning the newness of their jobs and the world of associations in general. Henson, too, has learned quickly of the advantages to an MSAE membership. Through it, she is pursing Mary Martha Henson, a former congressional staffer the Certified Association Executive designation – a and Jackson-based government relations specialist, credential shared by a select few association execs in joined the Mississippi Economic Development Council the state, including her predecessor. earlier this year as its new executive director. "The CAE study group has been a great benefit," She succeeded longtime leader Carol Hardwick, a she said. former MSAE board member who retired in 2012. All agreed one of the strongest assets MSAE offers to Henson also spent two-and-a-half years as executive its membership are the fostered relationships. "I miss director for the Mississippi Bio Technology Association, my MSAE family more than you'll ever know," said a relatively new trade group focused on the biotech and Havard. life sciences field. Layne Bruce is executive director of the Mississippi Press Association and immediate past president of MSAE. UPCOMING EVENTS MSAE/LSAE Joint Conference October 14 - 16, 2013 Harrah's New Orleans MSAE 2013 Lunch & Learn September 18, 2013 November 20, 2013 * Cocktails & Conversations the Tuesday preceding each Lunch & Learn Holiday Reception December 9, 2013 King Edward FALL 2013 | CONNECTIONS 25