Letter from the President
February 2026 | Charlotte AMA
Dear AMA Charlotte Members,
As we move through February, I’ve been spending time reflecting on the energy, intention, and momentum that define this point in the year. After the excitement of January and the pace of a new calendar year, February gives us space to pause, recalibrate, and refocus on what truly matters.
For us, as marketers and as members of this community, that reflection starts with one important question:
How are we using our skills to create meaningful impact?
At AMA Charlotte, we know that marketing is more than campaigns, analytics, and KPIs. At its core, it is about connection. It is about storytelling. It is about building trust, elevating voices, and strengthening the communities we serve.
As we recognize Black History Month, this reflection feels especially important. Our industry continues to evolve, and with that comes a responsibility to be thoughtful about representation, inclusion, and equity. The stories we tell, the brands we support, and the leaders we uplift all shape the future of our profession.
Purpose-driven marketing is not about one-time initiatives or seasonal messaging. It is about sustained commitment. It is about embedding our values into our strategies, our teams, and our leadership.
Here in Charlotte, I am continually inspired by the way our members show up—for one another, for our partners, and for our broader community. One of the things that makes AMA Charlotte so special is our shared belief that strong brands are built by people who care deeply about the people they serve.
As marketers, we sit at the intersection of business and culture. We influence perception. We shape narratives. We create moments that matter. That is both a privilege and a responsibility.
As we look ahead in 2026, your board remains focused on delivering meaningful value to you through:
Relevant, high-quality professional development
Thoughtful and engaging programming
Strong local partnerships
Accessible mentorship and leadership opportunities
A welcoming and inclusive community for marketers at every stage
Our goal is simple: to ensure that AMA Charlotte continues to be a place where you feel supported, challenged, and inspired.
Whether you are early in your career, navigating a transition, growing a team, or building something new, this organization exists for you.
On a personal note, I want to thank each of you for your commitment to this chapter. Your participation, ideas, volunteerism, and generosity of time are what allow us to thrive. Leadership is never a solo effort—it is a collective one—and I am deeply grateful to serve alongside such a dedicated community of professionals.
As we move through the rest of the year, I encourage each of us to lead with intention.
Be curious.
Be courageous.
Be collaborative.
Be kind.
And be purposeful in how you use your voice and your talents.
Thank you for being part of AMA Charlotte. I am truly honored to serve as your president, and I look forward to everything we will continue to build together.
With gratitude,
Lily Commander
President, AMA Charlotte
