Jennie Trower

Executive Director

Countdown to Connection: AWMAI's 25th Annual Conference Is Next Month!

Excitement is building as we approach our landmark 25th annual Teaching the Teacher Conference! In a few weeks, we'll gather again in Columbus, Ohio, to celebrate, learn, and strengthen the bonds that make our association so vital. This year's conference promises to be a truly special occasion, marking a quarter century of empowering, supporting and inspiring women in martial arts.

We've curated a dynamic program designed to cater to every level of expertise and interest. Expect engaging networking opportunities, cutting-edge professional development workshops, and skill-based sessions led by renowned instructors. Whether you're looking to refine your technique, explore new teaching methodologies, or simply connect with fellow martial arts instructors, you'll find it here.

This year, we are especially thrilled to honor four extraordinary individuals as inductees into our Hall of Fame. These women have dedicated 30 years or more to the martial arts, leaving an indelible mark on our community. Their stories of perseverance and mastery are sure to inspire us all.

Furthermore, we'll have the unique privilege of hearing from the founders of AWMAI. They'll share the organization's rich history, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of the past 25 years. More importantly, they'll offer their vision for the future, guiding us as we continue to champion women in martial arts for generations to come.

This conference is more than just an event; it's a celebration of our collective strength and a testament to the power of women supporting women. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a historic moment. Register today and join us as we celebrate 25 years of AWMAI.

I can’t wait to see you there!

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Sarah Sponzo

Events Director

I cannot believe that it’s only a few weeks until we will be celebrating together! I am looking forward to seeing everyone enjoying the sessions, the meals and each other’s company.

We’ve been putting the finishing touches on the schedule, meals, activities and the Hall of Fame Banquet. The team at the Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center has been a joy to work with and they are ready to welcome AWMAI with comfortable guest rooms, spacious meeting rooms and a great restaurant and pub. Not to mention the lovely grounds and indoor pool!

The Nationwide does not provide shuttle service from the John Glenn Columbus International Airport. However, Lyft, Uber and taxi service are readily available, and it’s just about a 20-minute ride.

Please see our list of things to bring and our travel tips in this newsletter. Hopefully, this will help make your preparation and travel as smooth as possible. Don’t forget to pack something festive for the banquet. This is a big year to celebrate!

We have everyone’s meal selection and requests, but if you have any questions or any special dietary needs, please contact Sarah.

The official date to book you room has passed, but if you are still in need of a room, please reach out and I can help.

Make your list, pack your bags, travel safe and we’ll see you in Columbus!

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Katie Murphy Stevens

Financial Director

It has been about nine years since I began my tenure as the AWMAI Financial Director. Through AWMAI, I've had a chance to meet so many accomplished martial arts instructors and self-defense instructors.

This group is all about helping one another grow, improve and deliver quality martial arts and self-defense instruction. I can't think of any other group that is so invested in helping each other succeed. The wealth of knowledge and experience is limitless.

No matter where you turn at an AWMAI conference, you will see a friendly face. Someone who wishes you every success and has some kind words to guide you in that direction.

Sometimes it can seem that the whole world is trying to tell me to be quiet, to disappear, to fade into the background. But I know that is not right. AWMAI is an association of people who know how to stand up, who know how to support others, who want to work together to build something positive. It is wonderful to have allies who will stand together with me.

This will be my sign-off article for the AWMAI newsletter as its Financial Director. A hearty welcome to Michele Montag, the incoming AWMAI Financial Director! Michele and I have been working together over the past several months to ensure a smooth transition. Michele is a great addition to the AWMAI board of directors, and the AWMAI finances are in good hands.

Looking forward to seeing many of you soon at the 2025 AWMAI Conference in Columbus, Ohio! If you can't make it this year, please join us at an online event. And watch for the announcement of our next conference. Plan to join us there!

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Dr. Amelia E. Jones, L. Ac.

Certification Director

All across the land the warriors are beginning to experience the thrill of anticipation. In a short period of time we will begin to converge in Ohio in pilgrimage to our annual gathering. This year will be especially jubilant, celebrating a quarter century of the organization, revering the founders and honoring the lifelong martial artists.

Yet, simultaneously our awareness is heightened and there is a sense of impending violence. It will be an important time to strengthen our bonds and forge new ones. To train and teach and learn from each other. To look backward and inward for the knowledge that will serve us in the future. To generate the collective power that will enable us to resist, persist and ultimately prevail.

To paraphrase a sage: we fight with one hand and love with the other, but in our dreams we love with both hands and the fighting is over. We have the power to make our dreams a reality. We must!

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