How do you redefine a field that’s widely misunderstood, even among its own professionals? And how can associations become essential hubs for interdisciplinary collaboration in such a space?

In this episode of Associations Thrive, host Joanna Pineda interviews Nathan Victoria, Executive Director of the Society for Personality Assessment (SPA) and Vice President at NextGen Association Management. Nathan discusses:

• Why “personality assessment” doesn’t mean pop personality tests like Myers-Briggs or StrengthsFinder, but instead refers to integrated and multi-method clinical assessments used by psychologists.
• The clinical and legal applications of personality assessment, including for law enforcement, immigration, air traffic controllers, and reality TV casting.
• SPA’s historical roots as the Rorschach Institute, Inc., and how it’s evolving to reclaim and redefine personality assessment.
• The effort to define personality assessment within the organization and clarify its public perception.
• SPA’s reinvestment in infrastructure: website, branding, database, and strategic plan.
• The organization’s shift to AMC management through NextGen, and the benefits of a more efficient staffing model.
• How SPA supports international engagement with its first-ever conference outside the U.S., despite visa and travel challenges.
• SPA’s unique conference partnerships with smaller psychology organizations to share resources and cross-pollinate ideas.
• Nathan’s broader role in managing multiple associations simultaneously through NextGen and how technology and transparency enable success.

References:

• SPA Website
• NextGen AMC Website
• 2025 Expert Insights on Personality Assessment Virtual Conference
• 2026 SPA Convention