2026 Conference

Marketing Forward Graphic Southwest Michigan AMA 2026 Conference

REGISTER

In an industry defined by constant evolution, marketers need fresh ideas, actionable insights, and meaningful connections to stay ahead. Join the Southwest Michigan American Marketing Association on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 in Kalamazoo for our premier annual conference, an exclusive gathering designed to elevate your thinking and strengthen your strategy.

This year’s event will bring together marketing leaders, innovators, and local professionals for a day of learning, inspiration, and collaboration. Through expert-led sessions, real-world case studies, and interactive discussions, you’ll explore the trends and tools shaping the future of marketing.

Whether you’re focused on brand growth, digital strategy, analytics, creative storytelling, or emerging technologies, you’ll leave equipped with practical takeaways you can apply immediately.

Don’t miss Southwest Michigan’s must-attend marketing event of 2026, where ideas spark, connections grow, and the next era of marketing comes into focus.

Speakers:

Adam J. Wilson

Leslie Youngblood

Tinashe Chaponda

What To Expect:

Enjoy a dynamic half-day experience starting with a networking lunch, followed by presentations from three industry-leading speakers. Connect with fellow marketing professionals, gain fresh insights you can put into practice, and take advantage of fun giveaways throughout the event.

 

EARLY BIRD PRICING

February 2nd to February 28th

Members – $99

Non Members- $119

Students- $39

REGULAR PRICING

March 1st to April 20th

Members- $139

Non Members -$159

Students- $39

Refunds are available within seven days of purchase. Approved refunds will be issued minus any Eventbrite or payment processing fees incurred at the time of registration

Conference 2026 Sponsors

Conference Details

WHERE

Fetzer Center

Western Michigan University

2251 Business Ct

Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5200

WHEN  

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

12 PM – 5:00 PM

2026 National Presenters

Adam-J-Wilson_headshot

Adam J. Wilson

Averages Are Killing Brand Differentiation
Marketing today feels more complicated than ever. With more screens, more data, new technology and constant competition for attention, many marketers feel overwhelmed. Even with more tools available, it has become harder to stand out and connect with audiences in a meaningful way. This presentation explores why relying too heavily on averages and surface-level data can limit creativity and impact. Attendees will learn how to move beyond “data rich but insight poor” thinking and discover practical ways to create clearer direction, stronger ideas and more distinctive brands.
Leslie-Youngblood-Headshot

Leslie Youngblood

From Chaos to Clarity: Building a 90-Day Marketing Strategy That Actually Gets Done
From Chaos to Clarity is a fast-paced, interactive workshop that helps marketing leaders, strategists and hands-on practitioners cut through the noise and build a 90-day marketing plan that actually gets executed. With an emphasis on clarity, structure, and ease, this session gives attendees the tools to stop spinning their wheels and start building momentum.
Tinashe Chaponda Headshot

Tinashe Chaponda

Keynote Speaker

Hypercharge Your Local Influencer Marketing + Paid Media Strategy
Influencer marketing isn’t just for global brands and viral moments—it’s becoming one of the most effective growth levers for local and regional businesses. As trust shifts from institutions to individuals, localized creators and college athletes are emerging as powerful connectors between brands and their communities. This session breaks down how influencer and NIL marketing actually works at the regional level—from small budgets to real business outcomes. Using small business and local based case studies, learn how brands can activate local creators, partner with student-athletes, and build content strategies that drive awareness, credibility, and sales. Discover what’s working, what’s overhyped, and how marketers can apply influencer strategies in practical, scalable ways—starting immediately.