Members Only | 03.12.26
President’s Message: Building the Next Chapter of MSP Leadership
By Alison Webster, MBA, CPCS, CPMSM, CPHQ, FMSP
Serving as the NAMSS 2026 president is both an honor and a responsibility. At a time when the medical services professional (MSP) workforce spans five generations and faces rapid change, preparing future leaders is essential. My commitment is to lead with intention, innovation, and a focus on preparing the next generation of MSPs. It was a true privilege to welcome 90 state leaders, representing 46 states from across the nation, to the 2026 State Leadership Conference in late February.
This year’s State Leadership Conference theme, “Together Across Generations: Adapting, Leading, and Powering the Future,” aligned with this focus area. Over two energizing days, we gathered virtually to strengthen state affiliate relationships, exchange practical strategies, and prepare MSP leaders for an evolving healthcare landscape.
In planning for the State Leadership Conference, my assignment was to select a book that was then sent as a gift from NAMSS to all attendees. This year’s selection, “A New Kind of Diversity: Making the Different Generations on Your Team a Competitive Advantage,” by Tim Elmore, provided valuable insight into how generational strengths and expectations shape today’s workforce. NAMSS Secretary-Treasurer Anne Wynne and I led a deep dive review of the book, followed by a breakout discussion.
For the first time in history, we have five generations in the workforce: Generation Z, millennials, Generation X, baby boomers, and builders. Generational diversity matters because today’s workforce not only spans more generations than ever, but our NAMSS data shows we have an aging MSP workforce. This makes intentional engagement and development of emerging MSPs a strategic priority. The book offered perspective to each generation, their strengths and tensions, and provided valuable insights into emerging trends, new ways of working, and what the future workforce values. It’s a great read, so if you’re interested in learning more about generational gaps and tips for bridging them, I encourage you to pick up this book.
Our dynamic keynote speaker, Amelie Karam, a millennial who is passionate about bridging generational gaps, spoke about the power of generational diversity when it comes to building stronger teams and associations. Her keynote concluded with a generationally inspired adaptation of Billy Joel’s song “Piano Man,” underscoring that our differences strengthen, rather than divide, our shared mission.
In addition to helpful and informative NAMSS updates, other inspiring sessions included “Building Stronger Boards: Effective Governance Practices,” led by NAMSS Executive Director Kirsten Shaffer, CAE. We also heard from Missouri State Association Past President Julie Vandenberg, CPCS, and Colorado State President Autumn Kunitz, CPCS, CPMSM, both participants of the 2025 NAMSS Tomorrow’s Leader Program. Their session, “Revitalize Your Board,” addressed common governance challenges and best practices to help association boards operate more effectively and sustainably. Their insights offered actionable approaches that state leaders can begin applying immediately.
Another forward-looking highlight was the session “Artificial Intelligence and Association Growth,” presented by Geneva Million, CPCS, CPMSM, a member of the NAMSS Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task Force. Geneva spoke about how AI is reshaping the ways associations operate and engage members. She explored real-world examples of how AI can streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and drive member value. She also demonstrated practical tools MSPs can use today, including how a well-crafted prompt can generate work products such as draft agendas.
Our closing panel session, “Empowering Leadership Across Generations: Building Inclusive and Resilient Teams in Healthcare,” featured four generations of MSPs, each bringing their own lived experiences and expectations, and explored how intergenerational perspectives can strengthen healthcare organizations to foster inclusivity and enhance team resilience. Their reflections reinforced the importance of learning across, rather than within, generational lines. Many thanks to our panelists, John Pastrano, BBA, CPMSM, CPCS; Stephanie McCoy, BBA, CPCS, CPMSM; Heather Lizardi; and Tuesday Chavez, as well as moderator Monica Martin, MA, CPCS, CPMSM.
During an open chat at the end of day two, one comment particularly resonated — the idea that instead of focusing on generational labels, we can move forward as Generation MSP. This captured the spirit of the conference: unity, diversity, and a commitment to our shared future. This made my heart happy! Reverse mentoring offers us a meaningful way to live out that vision. When experienced leaders intentionally create space to learn from emerging professionals and our younger generations, we foster mutual respect, expand perspective, and build stronger, more innovative teams. By learning across generations rather than leading within silos, we truly become Generation MSP!
As we move toward our 50th Annual Conference in New Orleans, our theme, “Golden Legacy, Powerful Future,” feels especially meaningful. Our legacy was built by leaders who invested in each other, strengthened our governance, advocated for recognition, and believed in the future of this profession. As we look ahead, we must intentionally encourage and prepare the next generation of MSPs.
In the coming months, you will see additional initiatives focused on leadership development, digital readiness, and member engagement — all designed to ensure that NAMSS remains the professional home for MSPs at every career stage.
With gratitude and optimism,
Alison Webster, MBA, CPCS, CPMSM, CPHQ, FMSP
President, NAMSS