New Millennium

As AWC headed into the new millennium, the organization continued to hone its online presence, depending more and more on the online membership directory and database, publications and chapter leadership pages and guides. It added an online chapter reports tool, and searched for novel ways to address members' severe time constraints in an increasingly fast-paced environment. Association demographics increased in the small business and entrepreneurial arenas, as women's communications skills increase and salaries continue to lag behind their male counterparts at 75 cents to the dollar. AWC has worked hard to address these challenges.

AWC's educational affiliate, Matrix Foundation, began offering a unique certification program for professional communicators in late 2004, with a discount for AWC members. The inaugural recipient was Cindy Wallace of the San Antonio chapter and National Board, who earned her Certified Communications Professional (CCP) in July 2005. Interest in the program grows as word spreads.

AWC changed administrators in 2005, moving its headquarters from Severna Park, MD, to Alexandria, VA. Under the guidance of Pamela Valenzuela, ASCENT Management, LLC now provides member and chapter services, financial accounting, Clarion Awards management and web maintenance for the organization.

AWC One of the Originals
The '70s; A New Name and New Strengths
The '80s: A Decade of Growth, Change and Leadership
The '90s: Looking Ahead
The 2000s: New Millennium, New Experiences
AWC Chairs & Presidents