A Message from Your President: August 2025
Posted by [email protected] on Aug. 7, 2025 / Subscribe 0
August Newsletter: A Year of Connection, Growth & Gratitude
Dear SMPS Tampa Bay Members,
As I write my final message as President, I am reflecting on an incredible year for SMPS Tampa Bay - a year filled with new connections, inspiring programs, and the kind of professional growth that only happens when a community comes together.
This year, our chapter:
- Connected members across the region through monthly Coffee & Connections in both Tampa and St. Pete, helping our A/E/C marketing and business development community grow stronger than ever.
- Delivered impactful programs and educational workshops on AI in proposals, industry best practices, and business development strategies, empowering members to bring fresh ideas and innovative approaches back to their firms.
- Partnered with industry organizations to expand our reach, strengthen connections, and create collaborative opportunities for our members.
- Expanded our Mentor-Protégé Tandem Program, developing meaningful one-on-one connections between emerging professionals and experienced leaders to support career growth and knowledge sharing.
- Came together to give back, participating in meaningful community initiatives and supporting each other both personally and professionally.
- Experienced unprecedented membership growth, expanding our community of A/E/C marketers and business developers.
- Invested over $20,000 in member value, offering free professional development and networking opportunities throughout the year.
Every event, every conversation, and every new relationship this year was powered by you—our dedicated members, volunteers, and friends.
July Highlights: Closing the Year Strong
July showcased the best of our chapter spirit:
- Coffee & Connections | July 17
We kicked off the month with coffee, conversation, and meaningful networking at Raining Berries in both Tampa and St. Pete. - SMPS Tampa Bay 2025-2026 Strategic Planning Meeting | July 30
Led by Jonathan Santiago, President-Elect, Sutter Roofing, our incoming Board gathered at Cigar City Brewing to set the stage for another successful year. Discussions focused on chapter growth, member engagement, and fresh programming ideas to ensure 2025–2026 is our most impactful year yet. We kicked things off with a bonsai tree team-building activity, setting a creative and collaborative tone for the day! - Summer Social | July 31
July wrapped up with an unforgettable evening at 3 Daughters Brewing in St. Pete, where members and guests connected, reconnected, and celebrated our community. A big thank-you to our sponsors: Skanska, Pinstripe Marketing, and Cura Creativa Co.
CHECK OUT & DOWNLOAD ALL EVENT PHOTOS HERE!
Upcoming August Events & Celebrations
As we enter August, our chapter isn’t slowing down:
- August 14 | SMPS Tampa Bay Board Meeting - 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Virtual
Our leadership team will come together one final time to review the year’s accomplishments, finalize outstanding initiatives, and ensure a seamless transition to the 2025–2026 Board. - August 21 | Coffee & Connections - Tampa & St. Pete - 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM
Raining Berries
Kick-start your morning with our signature networking meetups - simple, casual, and impactful. - August 28 | End-of-Year Social - 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen - Prohibition Room
Join us for our signature End-of-Year Social as we celebrate the accomplishments of the 2024-2025 year, welcome the new board, and toast to the exciting year ahead.
A Final Thank You
Leading SMPS Tampa Bay this year has been one of the highlights of my professional journey. The strength of this chapter lies in its members - your energy, passion, and willingness to show up for each other.
I’m thrilled to pass the gavel to Jonathan Santiago, President-Elect, Sutter Roofing, who will lead our chapter into an exciting new year. I know SMPS Tampa Bay will continue to thrive under his leadership, and I look forward to cheering on the next chapter of our growth.
Thank you for making this year truly unforgettable. Here’s to connection, collaboration, and all the great things ahead!
With heartfelt gratitude,
Michelle Casale
President, SMPS Tampa Bay (2024–2025)
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