Anastasia (Stacey) Courtney, Assistant Director of Convention and Events, Modern Language Association
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1. Why did you choose the field of association management and what about it keeps you going?
A: I sort of fell into it. I planned a small conference as part of a theater internship, and that led to a job in the convention office at MLA. I left for about 10 years, then came back in 2002. It’s an amazing organization of dedicated and creative people who really care about the work they do. And as a meeting planner on a small team for a large convention, I love the variety of skills and responsibilities that are necessary and that I’m able to develop. Every day is something new, and I thrive in that changing and creative environment.
2. How has the pandemic impacted your career or your role within your organization? And what time are you clocking in and out? (has that changed?)
A: I’d say the most dramatic change has been in leveraging my Digital Event Strategist (DES) certification and becoming an overnight specialist in digital meetings and events. Navigating the “work from home” change has also been interesting. I live in a small apartment with other people and pets, so I have to build in time for distractions that wouldn’t exist in an office. I also don’t have to commute or pack a lunch, so it’s a balance.
3. What advice do you have for young professionals looking to pursue a career in association management?
A: It can be incredibly rewarding to work for an association. In the end it’s about serving the needs of the membership. If helping people makes you happy, and often being creative with limited resources, then it can be a great fit. For me, it also helps to have a passion for the industry I’m serving. I was an English major and love to read and write, and I’m fascinated by language--how it can be used to unite or divide, how words and phrasing can make such a difference, and how exploring another language can open avenues of communication and understanding, so I’m thrilled to be working for the Modern Language Association and helping to support those who teach and publish and promote the study of language and literature.
4. Tell me about your experience (s) of engagement with NYSAE this past year?
A: I’m continually amazed and challenged by the steady stream of innovative and timely content produced by NYSAE since March. As a planner and as president of the NY chapter of PCMA, I know how challenging it can be to produce meaningful and relevant content when everything is so uncertain and changing so frequently.
5. When you’re not focused on work, where can we find you?
A: My escapes are art, nature, and books; my creative outlet is photography. You’re likely to find me at an art gallery or museum, wandering throughout NYC, taking photos (@amscourt on Instagram; @AnastasiaArts on Facebook), and, when I’m able, traveling.
