Sports Innovation Forum: The Future Starts Here—Join Now!
Push the boundaries of what’s possible—claim your spot at the Sports Innovation Forum!

2020 Connect Association 15 Over 50: Kristen Dearden

Kristen Dearden is an event management professional for Association Management, Ltd. She is based in Ankeny, Iowa.

Ca 15 50 Dearden

Kristen Dearden describes herself as focused, passionate and an optimist. Learn more about her.

How I got here: My career path started with a single state association. Working within this association, I wore many hats, which I am thankful for, as it gave me the experiences I would need to take an event from start to finish. Currently, I am with AML, an association management company, where I am an event management professional for three different associations. 

Greatest career accomplishment: Helping plan the year-long 150-year anniversary celebration for a professional organization. 

Specific improvements I’ve made: I introduced a health and wellness and a community initiative by including a local blood drive within the conference agenda; initiated a new method to enhance networking between exhibitors and participants by conducting reverse exhibits (speed-dating with vendors); improved sponsorship levels and expanded event opportunities by offering exclusive vendor receptions/dinners; and combined the structure of two committees into one to make the association client’s overall planning efforts more efficient.

What I do outside of work: I was recently appointed  to serve on the Iowa Society of Association Executives Board of Directors as Program Committee Vice Chair. I also love to golf and am involved in a women’s league.