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Chapter Leader Newsletter

July2026

Schedule your midyear chapter check-in, review bylaws and CPSM dates, and explore upcoming Leadership Thursdays, CLS Plus sessions, and chapter resources.

5 sections22 updates

Section 01

Feature Story

1 update

Schedule by July 31, 2026

Midyear Chapter Update Governance Growth and Support

As we move through the second half of the year, I’ve enjoyed connecting with chapter leaders during our midyear check-ins. These conversations have highlighted the incredible work happening across the Society and provided an opportunity to discuss both successes and challenges.

Some common themes emerging from our discussions include:

  • Strong member engagement through creative programming and networking events

  • Increased focus on succession planning and leadership pipelines

  • Board conversations around role clarity, committee structures, and volunteer engagement

  • Innovative approaches to membership retention and recruitment

  • Strategic planning efforts to support long-term chapter growth

During our check-ins, we’re also reviewing Chapter Scorecards, discussing annual Education and Finance Report requirements, bylaws progress, and identifying opportunities to leverage available Society resources and support.

Schedule Your Chapter Check-In

If your chapter hasn’t scheduled its midyear check-in yet, please do so by July 31, 2026. These conversations are designed to provide support, answer questions, review chapter progress, and ensure your leadership team has the resources needed for a successful year.

If you have questions in the meantime, please contact me at volunteers@smps.org.

~Kai Wright
Associate Director, Volunteer Relations

Section 02

Chapter Updates

6 updates

Target August 31

Bylaws Adoption Target August 31

A reminder that the target date for chapters to adopt the updated model bylaws is August 31, 2026.

If your chapter hasn’t completed its review and approval process yet, now is the time to assess where you are in the process and identify any remaining steps. Whether you’re preparing a member vote, reviewing draft language, or addressing chapter-specific questions, I’m here to help.

Please reach out if you have questions, concerns, or would like to schedule time to discuss your chapter's progress. My goal is to ensure every chapter feels supported and confident throughout the transition.

Thank you for your leadership and for the work you do every day to strengthen your chapters and the Society as a whole.

~Kai Wright
Associate Director, Volunteer Relations

Ends July 10

Call for Leadership Ends July 10

Our Call for Leadership is now open through July 10! Please share the news with your chapter members. It’s a great opportunity to serve the Society and make a difference within the profession and industry.

Board Service Information Session Recap

ICYMI: SMPS HQ hosted a complimentary webinar on June 11 to share more about available positions and the selection process. Society leaders, along with SMPS and SMPS Foundation board members, were on hand to answer questions and shared information about board service.

Take the Chapter Recognition Survey

Recognition plays a critical role in engaging and retaining chapter leaders and volunteers. This survey is designed to better understand how SMPS chapters currently recognize contributions, identify what’s working, and uncover opportunities for growth. Your input will help inform resources and strategies to strengthen a culture of recognition across the Society.

Please take 2-3 minutes to give us your feedback if you haven't already. Thank you!

August 5

CPSM Application Deadline August 5

Each year, the CPSM examination is administered during three-week testing periods in March and September. PTC will send approved candidates an email called the Scheduling Authorization approximately 11 weeks before the first day of the testing window.

Candidates may not make an appointment to test until they receive this authorization. For 2026, the next testing period will be September 5-26. Application deadline: August 5 for the September testing window. Please spread the word to your chapter members, and for more information about applying to sit for the CPSM exam, visit our website.

Section 03

Learning Opportunities

5 updates

CX Immersion Program

Following the success of our 2025 pilot, the 2026 CX Immersion workshop, presented by SMPS + ClearlyRated, is now underway. Upcoming host chapters include SMPS Utah, SMPS Southeast Michigan, SMPS Kansas City, SMPS Indianapolis, and SMPS Twin Cities. For program details and additional locations, visit the SMPS website.

Guided by SMPS Foundation research, CX Immersion delivers practical, research-backed client experience strategies that members can immediately apply within their firms.

What This Means for Your Chapter:

  • No cost. No financial risk. No operational burden

  • SMPS HQ manages curriculum, contracting, registration, and delivery

  • Chapters support promotion and member engagement locally

  • Participants may earn up to 10 CEUs

  • A contribution is made to the SMPS Foundation on your chapter’s behalf

Programs will continue to roll out nationwide this year and in 2027. Thanks to the following chapters and regionals who have already participated: SMPS Sacramento, SMPS North Texas, Southern Regional Conference, Pacific Regional Conference, and Missouri Valley Regional Conference.

Contact marci@smps.org for more information.

Section 04

In Case You Missed It

5 updates

Section 05

Save the Dates

5 updates