As ACCESSE26 takes shape, we asked members of the ACCESSE26 Program Committee a question with real operational implications: What distinguishes purpose-driven organizations in the STEM society space? 

Their responses point to a shared theme.  

Purpose-driven societies do not treat mission as simply a statement but rather as a decision-making discipline that shapes priorities, strengthens trust, and clarifies what to pursue and what to de-prioritize. 

These professionals’ insights inform the second installment of CESSE’s three-part blog series exploring the ACCESSE26 conference theme: Rooted in Purpose. 

Note: The responses below are reproduced as submitted. Minor grammar and style variations reflect each author’s voice. 

1) Purpose shows up in disciplined priorities and credibility 

“From my perspective, purpose-driven organizations stand out because they are clear about who they are and why they exist. They don’t just have a mission statement — they actually use that mission to guide decisions. They use it to prioritize programs, communicate with members, and engage their volunteers. I would also so they critically use this to identify what NOT to do. There are always new ideas, new pressures, and new opportunities competing for attention. Purpose-driven organizations are able to stay grounded because they know who they are. Members, employees, volunteers, and partners recognize the difference when an organization is operating with real conviction. It gives the work more focus, and it gives the organization more credibility.” 

Curt Gomulinski, Executive Director, Tau Beta Pi - The Engineering Honor Society 

A clear mission is important, but a mission used consistently to guide trade-offs is what creates focus and strengthens stakeholder trust. 

2) Purpose shows up in mission-aligned trade-offs and faster execution 

“Purpose-driven STEM societies distinguish themselves by making decisions that consistently align with mission, even when it requires hard trade-offs. You see clarity in priorities, faster strategic execution, and stronger member trust because people understand not just what the organization is doing, but why it matters.” 

Toni Kervina, Director of Content and Learning, American Society for Nondestructive Testing

When priorities compete, clarity and consistency are what prevent mission drift and maintain momentum. 

3) Purpose shows up when operations reinforce community and field advancement 

“Purpose driven STEM societies stand out because their work consistently connects back to serving their community and advancing the field, not just running programs and turning a profit. In my experience at the AMS, you see this through the deep involvement of volunteers and committees who bring their expertise and passion to the work, and through meetings like JMM that create space for collaboration, mentorship, and new ideas. When the mission is clear, even the operational work behind the scenes helps strengthen the community and support the people doing the science.” 

Dezmarie Doyle, Senior Meeting Specialist, American Mathematical Society

Strong societies connect programming, governance, and convening back to member community and the advancement of the discipline. 

4) Purpose shows up in advancing members and the broader community 

“By helping their members / community advance their research and careers.” 

Frank Krause, Former CEO, Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology 

Purpose becomes measurable when it translates into progress for members and the communities they serve. 

5) Purpose shows up when leaders act as ambassadors, not just facilitators 

“Looking at those in the field as opportunities to advance the profession and to solidify and advance the skills needed to be successful. Also, being an ambassador of the profession and the field rather than just a facilitator.” 

Robert Morowczynski, Director of Professional Development, Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers 

Purpose-driven organizations strengthen professional identity and capability, not only through programs, but through how leaders represent and advance the field. 

A shared takeaway: purpose becomes a governance and strategy advantage 

Across these perspectives, purpose-driven organizations distinguish themselves by: