Fantastic people, great conversation, and good food are three elements that make family reunions so memorable. And all three were present in July in Detroit, when more than 80 Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP) scholars gathered for their own reunion to welcome the members of the 2012–2014 class.

The reunion began with a welcome dinner and reception, where previous DELP classes had the chance to welcome the 12 newbies to the club. “It was overwhelming to meet everyone and really understand what a tremendous opportunity we’ve been given,” said Shomari McCrimons, data analytics manager, AARP Services, and a member of the 2012–2014 class. “We were welcomed into the DELP and ASAE families right away, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”

Other highlights of the weekend included education sessions led by fellow DELP scholars on how to remain relevant through change and use technology to build your personal brand, as well as a breakfast cruise along the Detroit River. There was also a visit to First Congregational Church, one of the national forerunners of the anti-slavery movement, for the underground railroad tour, and a tasting at B Nektar Meadery.

The Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau is the exclusive sponsor of the DELP program. “Being part of this and working with ASAE to support such an important program is something we can’t imagine not being a part of,” said DMCVB President and CEO Larry Alexander, during his remarks at the welcome dinner. “The amount we get back is more than we ever expected, and we are so happy to play a role in developing the next generation of association leaders.”

To learn more about the DELP program, visit www.asaecenter.org/delp.