Stephen E. Peeler
Vice President, Development, ASAE: The Center for Association
Leadership/ASAE Foundation, Washington, D.C.
Describe what your job entails.
I am responsible for overseeing all aspects of the ASAE Foundation’s fundraising efforts, from annual and planned giving programs to fundraising events like our Executive Golf Series, The Pour—a wine and beer tasting event at our Great Ideas Conference—and intimate receptions throughout the year to recognize our generous donors.
Describe your recent meeting in Detroit.
The ASAE Foundation held several events as part of the ASAE 2015 Annual Meeting & Exposition, including a donor reception held at Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center; a pinning ceremony for the members of our Leadership Society, also held at the Marriott Renaissance Center; a wellness and spa day at IMMERSE Spa at the MGM Grand [Detroit]; a Q&A session with our opening general session speaker at the Cobo Center; and a concert with Lionel Richie at the Fox Theatre.
Was anyone particularly helpful in executing the event?
Michael O’Callaghan and Bill Bohde at the Detroit Metro CVB, and Sharonda Wray at Westin Book Cadillac Detroit.
Did you incorporate any sporting events?
Yes, we hosted a scramble-style golf tournament at TPC Michigan for over 120 golfers and a round-robin tennis tournament at the Fairlane Club. Both TPC Michigan and Fairlane Club are located in Dearborn, Mich., a suburb of Detroit.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most about meeting in Detroit?
Detroit’s volunteers were a huge help throughout our meeting, and the entire city was so welcoming to our group.
Would you return/recommend Detroit to other planners, and why?
Absolutely, I would recommend Detroit to any planner who is looking for a unique venue with lots of history. From The Henry Ford museum to the exquisite Fox Theatre to the beautiful RiverWalk, there is so much to discover. Our meeting also happened to fall during a lovely time of year in Detroit: August. The weather was warm and inviting and the city was alive with locals and our meeting attendees dining alfresco, taking in the sights and sounds, and enjoying what is truly America’s great comeback city.