STEM Society Leaders Gather in Philadelphia for the ACCESSE25 Conference
A Meeting that Propelled the STEM Society Profession Forward
For professionals working to advance science, technology, engineering, and math, this year’s ACCESSE25 conference in Philadelphia offered more than just a chance to connect with colleagues and industry partners. Anchored by the theme "Expanding Impact,” this conference was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when mission-driven leaders come together to share knowledge, elevate their disciplines, and address the most pressing challenges facing the STEM association community today.
This year's program committee, comprised of 12 CESSE member volunteers, was thoughtfully designed to foster innovation, spark collaboration, and deliver actionable insights.
What made the experience even more meaningful? Let’s take a look.
By the Numbers: Impact at a Glance
The energy and engagement were clear in the numbers:
- 243 Total Attendees
- 168 STEM Society Professionals
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Registration grew up 36%
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59 First-Time Attendees (+11%)
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70 STEM Organizations Represented
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59 Partner Organizations
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955 Connections Made Via Conference App (+313%)
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21 Concurrent + 2 Keynote Sessions
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9.25 CAE credits earned per attendee
In Their Words
Here’s what conference attendees had to say:
“This was my first time attending and everyone that I met was very warm and welcoming, especially at the opening reception. I've never walked into a reception and been greeted by so many people who were welcoming me. When it's your first time and you don't really know anybody, it makes you feel a lot better and more at ease and it makes a good, positive first impression. Thank you!”
Paula White, MPM, Membership Manager Society for Industrial & Applied Mathematics (SIAM)
“I was able to connect with both people I already knew, and able to meet new people. The breaks were just the right length to let us relax, recharge and chat, but not so long that we lost momentum.”
Brian Calvary, CAE, Membership Director, AIAA
“As always, I enjoyed connecting in-person/network with other CESSE members. I also greatly appreciated the ability to speak 1:1 with CESSE Partners and learn about services, software, apps and other solutions to common challenges everyone is facing especially related to use of AI and membership engagement.”
Jennifer Zeitzer, Deputy Executive Director & Director, Office of Public Affairs, FASEB
What It Means for STEM Societies 
Whether the focus was on exploring tangible solutions to shared challenges, strengthening one’s leadership capacity, or bringing new ideas back to your STEM society, ACCESSE25 delivered.
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95% agree or strongly agree: “I feel refreshed an inspired after attending ACCESSE.”
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90% agree or strongly agree: “ACCESSE helped me feel more proud of the work I do.”
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95% agree or strongly agree: “I left ACCESSE with new ideas I can apply to my work.”
What’s Next: Stay Connected
The CESSE team is already looking ahead to ACCESSE26 on July 14-16, 2026 in Raleigh, NC. Sign up for updates to get notified when registration opens and be the first to hear about ongoing opportunities to connect and grow as a STEM society professional.
Thank you to our 2025 attendees, partners, speakers, volunteers and hosts in Philadelphia for creating a valuable experience for the CESSE community. We look forward to seeing you in 2026.
