Introducing the Membership Engagement Committee

Introducing the Membership Engagement Committee

By: Kathleen Howard
Vice-Chair, Professional Development Committee & Chair, Member Engagement Committee — CMAC Ontario Branch
Director of Food & Beverage, Toronto Cricket Skating and Curling Club

The Ontario Branch of CMAC is excited to introduce a new committee focused on one thing we all value: connection.

The Membership Engagement Committee (MEC) was created to complement our strong professional development programming by offering more opportunities for networking, conversation, and community-building. While education remains a cornerstone of CMAC, we recognize that meaningful engagement often happens in more informal, relationship-driven settings and that’s where MEC comes in.

Our goal is to engage the membership beyond traditional sessions and to create inclusive opportunities that resonate with a wide range of professionals. Not all members are pursuing their CCM, and many talented individuals within our clubs may not yet be CMAC members or fully aware of what CMAC offers. MEC initiatives are designed to bridge that gap by welcoming both members and non-members, helping to broaden awareness while strengthening the professional networks that make CMAC so valuable.

One of our first initiatives is Virtual Coffee Chat, a casual, low-pressure way to connect with peers across the region. These sessions are built around conversation, shared experiences, and learning from one another. Our inaugural Virtual Coffee takes place on February 4 at 10:30 AM and will kick off with the question, “What’s one challenge you’re facing right now?” Attendees will also have the chance to provide input through a live poll, helping shape future Ontario Branch engagement initiatives.

In addition to Virtual Coffee Chat, the committee is planning a February Happy Hour. We are also making strong progress on a Women in Club Management initiative. While the focus is on hosting a women-centred event, the committee believes strongly in inclusivity and intends for the initiative to be open to all.

We hope you’ll join us for a coffee, a conversation, or an event in the months ahead — and help shape what membership engagement looks like for the Ontario Branch.