originally posted on 4/21/2025
Photo: courtesy ACE Collection. View full-sized image.
The Executive Committee (EC) met in Nashville, Tennessee, for one of its three in-person meetings held each year. The weekend focused on teamwork, problem-solving and putting plans into action. As this group continues to grow stronger together, it has become clear that making the most of our limited time requires trust and open communication.
After the meeting, several EC members shared their thoughts on the weekend. Publications Director Rob Ascough said, “It was a great example of collaboration between the EC members to make the organization better.” Region Director Javan Townsend echoed that feeling, adding, “I really appreciated how everyone came together to work towards common goals for the betterment of ACE.”
The agenda included reviewing old business, continuing past discussions, introducing new topics from various members and evaluating ACE’s strategic plan for 2025. Key topics included Higher Logic integration, special designations for 100 year-old roller coasters and the making of ACE News posts public (instead of existing behind a paywall for only ACE members). Many found great value in the thoughtful and dynamic conversations — especially around the strategic plan. These discussions helped us focus on measuring outcomes, expanding ideas and ensuring the organization continues to meet the needs of its members. Insights were shared that will lead to stronger long-term results and more efficient execution.
Progress was also made in several key areas: the EC advanced event planning, began preparations for IAAPA Expo 2025, coordinated support for the National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives and evaluated the purpose and structure of both the business meeting booklet and the meeting itself — along with much more.
Reflecting on the weekend, History and Preservation Manager Josh Brown shared, “I'm most proud of supporting the mission of ACE through preservation projects as well as being an advocate for the membership.”
Meeting minutes will be available within 60 days. Why not sooner? Once ACE’s secretary, Jeff Niemiec, completes the initial draft, committee members review it. The minutes are then edited to meet ACE’s style guide and finalized through an email vote. Once they are approved, they will be published for review by all ACE members. Please keep an eye on the bi-weekly email updates for a notice when the meeting minutes are available for review. To access minutes from past meetings, look for them here.
— Elizabeth Ringas, ACE President
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