What makes ARS different?
Meet your team. We are committed to your cause and work to develop an understanding of the unique individual needs of your organization. We strive to provide you with fresh, innovative ideas that are focused around helping provide the greatest benefit to your mission. In addition to our core team of professionals, we work with an extended team of expert and experienced contractors as needed, providing clients access to highly skilled individuals for a fraction of the cost. Let’s begin working together towards a more efficient, effective and successful organization.
Brandice Pittard Pelfrey
Brandice P. Pelfrey, CMP has worked in the association management profession for more than 15 years, ranging from regional to international organizations. Though adept in all areas of the field, her expertise is in fundraising/sponsor development, membership recruitment and retention, continuing education, and event management. Brandice understands the drive, process, and procedures involved in making organizations the most successful they can be and possess the abilities to identify and meet the desired outcomes. In her work experience she has developed and honed the skills needed to work as a team and promote success. Not only can she meet and exceed her goals, she has proven ability to assist volunteer and staff members in doing the same. As a professional, she enjoys learning from others and knows that collaboration leads to innovation. Brandice is currently preparing to take the Certified Association Executive (CAE) exam.
Leah Bozeman
Leah Bozeman is an experienced Account Executive and Education Director with a proven track record in the non-profit sector. In her current role, she oversees the operations, finances, programs, staff, and volunteers of various non-profit organizations. With expertise in strategic planning, fundraising, and stakeholder relationship management, she leads teams in achieving the mission and goals of each organization, ensuring impactful and sustainable outcomes. As Education Director, Leah works closely with organizations to develop and implement professional education content, including print and digital resources, webinars, and certification programs. Her focus on innovation and partnerships drives the creation of educational experiences that empower individuals and support organizational success. Before joining ARS, Leah amassed more than a decade of experience in the education sector. This background provided her with a robust skill set in program management, educational program development, and resource allocation. Her deep understanding of pedagogical strategies and commitment to fostering academic excellence continue to inform her approach to achieving organizational objectives and driving growth.
Megan McCrae
Megan McCrae is a seasoned Event Manager with 15 years of experience in organizing and executing both large-scale and intimate events, including corporate functions, social gatherings, galas, fundraising campaigns, and more. She is recognized for her strong project management skills and problem-solving abilities, consistently providing exceptional customer service and ensuring each event exceeds client expectations. Megan specializes in transforming client visions into reality while maintaining strict budget guidelines. Her creativity, organizational expertise, and time management skills allow her to design and execute flawless events. Although she is skilled across all aspects of event planning, Megan’s primary expertise lies in fundraising and sponsor development, membership recruitment and retention, continuing education, and comprehensive event management. With a strong command of event logistics, Megan excels in negotiation, budgeting, venue and travel coordination, and maintaining client and VIP relations. Her adaptability and decisive approach ensure smooth and efficient event execution, even in high-pressure environments. Whether planning a corporate meeting, a gala, or a personal celebration, Megan brings a unique balance of creativity and precision to every event. Driven by a passion for crafting exceptional events, Megan McCrae’s attention to detail and commitment to flawless execution make her the trusted expert for creating memorable, stress-free experiences that leave a lasting impact.
Karen Thrower
With over two decades of dedicated experience as an Accountant, Karen Thrower has had the privilege of serving diverse entities ranging from non-profit organizations and religious institutions to for-profit enterprises across multiple industries including real estate, insurance, legal, and professional associations. Throughout her career, she has diligently refined her organizational acumen and adeptly managed multifaceted responsibilities while meticulously prioritizing client needs. As the Finance Administrator of our team, she champions compliance with financial policies, standard procedures, and regulatory requirements. Through close collaboration with both Board members and Account Executives, Karen orchestrates the meticulous monitoring of financial reports, conducts insightful trend analyses, and furnishes pertinent financial insights to facilitate informed decision-making processes. Beyond the mere preparation of financial reports for stakeholders, Karen is committed to delivering actionable recommendations aimed at maximizing profitability and optimizing expenditure.
Hedley Warren, MPA
Hedley holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Furman University and a Masters degree in Public Administration with a Concentration in Non-Profit Management from the University of Tennessee Chattanooga. She brings to clients an expertise and knowledge of social media management, marketing, and event management. In her current role, Hedley leads organizations to build their bottom line through strategic marketing campaigns, signature events, and improved social media presence. She is adept at project management, creative marketing and fundraising strategies, and building relationships with the media, sponsors, and key partners. She maintains a big picture philosophy with focus on the goals and a critical eye on the details.