In this special encore episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher welcomes back David Whited, Principal of Design Research & Strategy at Highland, to walk us through fresh insights from the newly released 2025 Young Professional Membership Index (YPMI)—dropping the same day this episode airs.

Earlier this year, David helped us kick off our Gen Z series with data-backed insights and practical frameworks for attracting and retaining younger members. That episode sparked major interest—and now he’s back to unpack what’s shifted, what’s holding steady, and how associations can take the next step in their engagement strategy for Gen Zs and young Millennials.

🎧 Whether you’re leading a young professionals committee or setting strategy at the board level, this episode will help you benchmark your efforts, spot gaps, and find your next move.

Key Highlights:

Leadership Focus Still Leads – Why leadership alignment remains the single most important driver of young professional retention.

What Tier Are You In? – How Highland’s four-tier maturity model helps associations understand where they stand—and what to do next.

The Power of Bridge Experiences – Only 19% of associations are using them, yet they can drive up to a 50% boost in first-year retention.

Getting Unstuck – Why most organizations stall between good intentions and meaningful action, and how to move from talk to traction.

AI & Innovation Readiness – What the 2025 data reveals about AI experimentation in associations, and where the biggest gaps remain.

One Priority to Focus On – Why prototyping, not perfection, is the best path forward for associations ready to engage the next generation.

🎧 Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that blends reflection, real data, and practical next steps for associations of all sizes.

Resources:

📊 Download the 2025 Young Professional Membership Index (YPMI) National Report: https://www.highlandsolutions.com/member-index/national-report-2025 

🧠 Learn more about Highland: www.highlandsolutions.com

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Coming Soon: We’re heading back into our July series on sponsorships, partnerships, and non-dues revenue—featuring fresh perspectives and bold new models that are helping associations unlock value beyond dues. Stay tuned!