As football season kicks off and fantasy drafts heat up, marketers everywhere are making their own winning picks. Joining the American Marketing Association (AMA) is like drafting a fantasy team stacked with stars—it sets you up for season-long success. From exclusive resources and certifications to networking and career-building opportunities, AMA membership delivers the kind of championship-level payoff every marketer is looking for.
As President of AMA Charlotte, I’ve sat in countless rooms this year with brilliant marketers trying to crack the same code: how do we build connection in a world overloaded with content? The answer is simpler—and more human—than most dashboards will tell you. In 2025, trust isn’t just a feel-good value; it’s the most important KPI we’ve got. Whether I’m leading a B2B comms team or swapping stories over brunch with friends, one thing holds true: people engage with what (and who) they trust. And Charlotte? We’re primed to lead the way.
Lily Commander steps into her new role as President of AMA Charlotte with deep gratitude and a bold vision for the year ahead. In this welcome message, she reflects on the legacy of past leaders, shares her excitement for a dynamic new board, and outlines a powerful roadmap for connection, growth, and community within Charlotte’s vibrant marketing scene.
Tammy Tufty, AMA Charlotte President
Successful organizations like AMA Charlotte are powered by deeply committed people working shoulder-to-shoulder, behind the scenes to keep them alive. As the Chapter launches its new programming year, I had the pleasure of talking with Tammy Tufty, the new President, about who she is and what she is looking forward to as the chapter is focused on reconnecting with our marketing community after a few challenging pandemic years.
Q: WHAT’S YOUR STORY AS A MEMBER OF AMA CHARLOTTE?
This is my 4th year on the Board of the AMA Charlotte Chapter. I served as VP of Communications for two years before starting our Leadership track.
I got involved with AMA Charlotte several years ago by attending several events. I had let my networking lapse and sought connections with other marketing professionals. So, I attended more events, got to know some amazing people, took the leap and joined the board. It’s been one of the best moves I’ve ever made.
I’ve had the opportunity to work and learn alongside some of the best marketing professionals in Charlotte. Plus, by volunteering, I’ve stretched my capabilities and seen new professional possibilities I hadn’t considered before.
“I moved into my current role at Dell Technologies last year and was able to leverage relationships I’ve built through AMA as part of my interviewing process. The relationships I’ve built over the past few years have been invaluable. ”
~Tammy Tufty, AMA Charlotte President
Q: WHAT’S YOUR VISION FOR THE CHAPTER DURING YOUR TERM?
The pandemic impacted our ability to deliver on our vision to be that go-to knowledge source for marketing and sales professionals in the Queen City. I’m excited to bring back a full slate of diverse, in-person events that help our marketing community face their challenges and opportunities head-on in this crazy, ever-changing field.
Q: WHY TAKE ON THE EXTRA WORK?
I love this group of people. They’re passionate, dedicated, and fun to be around. I want to support them and create an environment where they can continue to grow, personally and professionally.
And that helps me grow. It’s also a great way to expand my leadership skills and I’m sure a whole host of other skills that I haven’t even considered.
Finally, I love connecting with people in the Charlotte marketing community. It makes me happy to help others out. Whether it’s introductions, brainstorming or collaborating on events with fellow associations.
