Sara Wood, CAE, MBA | Executive Director

Bio: Sara L Wood is an association veteran with 20 years of experiences leading organizations. Prior to her time with WDS she has served as the Executive Director of the American College of Health Care Administrators, the Public Media Business Association, and the North American Association of Commencement Officers. She also spent 8 years as the Deputy Executive Director of the Association of Water Technologies. Sara holds her undergraduate degree in English from the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, VA, and her Master of Business Administration from the Saunders College of Business at Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY. She also has achieved the Certified Association Executive (CAE) certification from the American Society of Association Executives and holds a certificate in strategic facilitation. When not supporting associations, Sara enjoys travel, film, and singing competitive barbershop. 
Contact: [email protected]

Jess Campbell | Program Manager

Bio: Jess Campbell began her career in association management in 2019, shortly after earning her Master of Science in Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum from Drexel University. She brings a comprehensive skill set, including volunteer management, board development and support, communications and marketing, membership recruitment and retention, sponsor relations, and event management. Jess is particularly adept at designing efficient workflows and is dedicated to empowering associations to define their unique voice as they grow, thrive, and reach their objectives. Committed to professional development, she volunteers on the AMCI Professional Advancement Committee and is pursuing her Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential. Outside of work, Jess enjoys reading, listening to music, and undertaking minor home renovations. 
Contact: [email protected]

Kathleen Kelley | Program Manager

Bio: Kathleen Kelley is an experienced program and project manager with a strong track record of leading complex initiatives, coordinating cross-functional teams, and driving strategic outcomes. With a background in justice policy and association management, she excels at translating ideas into action—whether managing high-impact events, guiding committees, or building collaborative relationships with stakeholders. She holds a master’s degree in Justice, Law, and Criminology from American University and is passionate about supporting organizations that create positive change. In her free time, you'll find Kathleen out in nature running around with her dog, exploring new places, or enjoying a good book. 
Contact: [email protected]

Nelia Dashiell | Marketing Communications Specialist 

Bio: Nelia Dashiell is a marketing and communications professional with over six years of experience supporting mission-driven organizations. She specializes in digital strategy, content creation, and member engagement, with a focus on delivering clear, consistent, and compelling messaging. Nelia holds a bachelor’s degree in English and Mass Media from Virginia Commonwealth University and is passionate about helping organizations connect with their audiences in meaningful ways. In her free time, she enjoys exploring local coffee shops, traveling, and running.
Contact: [email protected]

Lindsay Plath, CMP | Education & Events Manager 

Bio: Lindsay Plath, CMP has over a decade of experience in the meeting industry, focusing on the non-profit and association sectors. She is dedicated to creating welcoming, sustainable, and engaging experiences that leave lasting impressions. Lindsay earned her bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Chicago and holds the Certified Meetings Professional (CMP) certification. Her commitment to the industry is reflected in her active involvement with Meeting Professionals International (MPI) where she currently serves as the Vice President of Education on the MPI New Jersey Chapter Board of Directors. In her free time, she enjoys curling up with a good book, crafting, or tap dancing.
Contact: [email protected]