2025 NASSM State of the Society
On Friday, December 5, 2025, the North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM) held its first-ever mid-year State of the Society Address, led by President Dr. Michael Naraine and moderated by the association’s Marketing and Communications Chair, Jeff Farr. This update provided a candid look at where the organization stands, the challenges it faces, and the exciting opportunities ahead.
The Current State of the society: Fluid and Challenging
Dr. Naraine opened with transparency and a candid presentation about the challenges facing NASSM in its current state. In his words, NASSM is experiencing ongoing “operational turbulence” resulting from the shift from an operational board to a governing board. While theoretically sound and still, currently, the right call for NASSM, this has created layers of bureaucracy that have slowed execution at times. As members are aware, this shift led to the creation of an Executive Director (ED) role designed to increase operational efficiency. However, the part-time role has operated at roughly 25% of the full-time ED roles in other organizations, and this dynamic has therefore not resulted in the full-speed outcomes expected by the membership, leading to gaps in business continuity and member communications.
To address these gaps, NASSM plans to examine new models, including (but not limited to) contracting an association management company (AMC) to strengthen operations and align them with the strategic plan.
Financial Outlook
The society ran a deficit in 2025, mainly due to costs related to hosting the annual conference in San Diego. While the 2026 conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico, will cost significantly less to host, NASSM still anticipates deficits through 2027 as it invests in operational improvements.
The goal: break even or generate surpluses by 2028.
Strategic Progress
Despite operational challenges, the governing board remains committed to NASSM’s four strategic pillars:
Fostering a culture of inclusivity
Enhancing membership value
Elevating the conference experience
Increasing industry influence
Recent successes in maintaining adherence to these pillars include reinstating in-person governing board meetings and renewed focus on KPIs. The October 2025 GB meeting in Chicago marked a significant step toward establishing strategic renewal.
Conference Evolution
Following Dr. Naraine’s planned remarks, members were encouraged to ask questions. During this portion of the meeting, members raised essential questions about the conference format, suggesting shifts from abstract-only submissions to full papers and developmental sessions. In his responses, Dr. Naraine confirmed that changes could arrive as soon as the 2026 Puerto Rico Conference, which may feature innovation hubs and feedback-driven sessions. Moving forward, it is expected that robust paper options and other format adjustments will be added, some as soon as Vancouver 2027.
Inclusivity and Member Engagement
Due to the nature of the world we find ourselves in as scholars, questions were presented that asked Dr. Naraine about his understanding of how NASSM would address concerns about DEI initiatives and provide a welcoming environment for all members of society. In his response, Naraine noted that NASSM will continue to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that conferences and other aspects of the society remain accepting and welcoming for all members. Future plans include strengthening ties with HBCUs and exploring partnerships with other organizations to create shared benefits.
Additionally, members raised longstanding concerns about the exclusivity of NASSM, noting they have not seen value in membership due to feeling ostracized or not part of the “in-crowd.” Dr. Naraine noted this concern and encouraged members (prospective and otherwise) to “be the change” by volunteering for committees and leadership roles and to continue to make their voices heard.
Looking Ahead…
The society is preparing for major strategic lifts in the 2027–2028 cycle. While challenges remain, the message was clear: NASSM is not in crisis; it is evolving. With collective effort, the organization will emerge stronger, more inclusive, and better aligned with its mission both now and for the future.
Watch the whole State of the Society Address video below to hear the discussion and member questions in detail.