February 2026 
President's Message
As we move into February, I hope this message finds you energized and inspired for all the opportunities this year is already bringing our chapter. January kicked off with strong engagement and connection, including our Business Partner Appreciation Event, where members and partners gathered for an evening of networking and a hands-on charcuterie workshop. It was a wonderful way to spend our evening connecting with our Business Partners and showing them how much they mean to our chapter.
February also brings us closer to our biggest event of the year — the Annual Luncheon, Business Partner Expo & Happy Hour on March 6th. This signature gathering is where our chapter’s sense of community truly comes alive. It’s a chance to meet new partners, explore innovative solutions, and strengthen the connections that keep our chapter thriving. I’m excited to share this day with all of you and to celebrate the collaborations that move us forward
February also brings exciting opportunities for education and professional development, both within our chapter and through ALA National programming. Whether you’re attending a local event, joining a webinar, or reconnecting with fellow members, I hope each of you finds something this month that enriches your professional journey.
Thank you for your ongoing involvement. I’m looking forward to a productive month and to seeing many of you at our upcoming events.
Warm regards,
Julie Cooney, Chapter President
In Case You Missed It
January Monthly Luncheon — January 21, 2026
Our first luncheon of the year focused on Client Experience as a Revenue Strategy, offering members practical insights into how elevating client service can strengthen firm performance. The session took place at Legion Place Conference Center and was well received by attendees looking to refine their client‑engagement approach. If you would like to watch the recording, please look to our Chapter's Tradwing page for this and all other educational recordings: Tradewing Educational Recourses
Business Partner Appreciation Post on LinkedIn
We also shared highlights from our appreciation gathering on LinkedIn, celebrating the collaboration and partnership that fuel our chapter’s success. The post featured photos from the event and a recap of the charcuterie workshop enjoyed by attendees. Check out our post here.
Calendar of Events
Annual Luncheon, Business Partner Expo & Happy Hour
March 6, 2026 | Marriott Orlando Downtown
Our biggest event of the year returns with networking, business partner engagement, education, and chapter connection.
Member News
Congratulations, Mindy Ballard!
Chapter News
Upcoming Board Nominations
I’m pleased to share the proposed slate of Executive Board members and Committee Chairs for the upcoming term, as recommended by our Nominating Committee and approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with our Chapter Bylaws.
Executive Board
President: Rebecca Schulte
President-Elect: Mindy Ballard
Treasurer: Trisha Wetherington Alzate
Secretary: Abbi Laney
Committee Chairs
Education: Deirdre Olden
Membership: Lauren Morris
Business Partner: Marelize Dingman and Mindy Ballard
Community Chair: Mellissa Waters
Communications Chair: Julie Cooney
As part of our commitment to transparency and member participation, we are opening a review and nomination period for all chapter members. If you have concerns about any nominee, would like to submit additional names for consideration, OR are interested in volunteering within one of the committees listed, please send them to [email protected].
All concerns and additional nominations must be submitted by Friday, February 27, 2026. Our Expo Event on March 6, is where we will formally swear in the new Executive Board during the luncheon program. The new Board’s term will officially begin on April 1.
National News
Essentials of Chapter Leadership:
The Central Florida Chapter has registered for the upcoming Essentials of Chapter Leadership, taking place Friday, March 13 and 20, 2026. Registration by the chapter grants FREE unlimited access to all chapter members interested in attending Essentials of Chapter Leadership. However, to gain that access you must register yourself individually first!
You do not have to be a part of the board to join, all Central Florida Chapter members are welcome to attend! If you have ever been interested in getting more involved with your board, this is a great place to start!
Look out for an email [email protected]. This email will have the registration link, promo code, and registration deadline of Friday, March 6, 5pm Central.
ALA Event – Essentials of Chapter Leadership: Day 1
March 13, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM (Virtual)
ALA National presents this leadership‑focused session, Amplify Your Impact, aimed at chapter leaders and emerging leaders.
ALA Event – Essentials of Chapter Leadership: Day 2
March 20, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM (Virtual)
The second session in the series continues leadership development and chapter operations education.
ALA 2026 Annual Conference & Expo
April 12, 2026 | National Harbor, MD
ALA’s flagship national conference returns this April with large‑scale education, networking, and business partner opportunities.
