LaShawn Duckett serves as senior director of convention and strategic operations at the National Communication Association, functioning as a key strategic partner to the executive director. She oversees convention operations, leads cross-functional strategic initiatives and coordinates organizational planning efforts. With a background in creating revenue-generating conferences and programs, Duckett has partnered with senior executives for more than a decade to develop strategic, logistical and budgetary approaches that ensure organizational goals are met.

Before joining the NCA, Duckett was the director of meetings at the National Science Teaching Association, where she exceeded revenue and attendance goals. Previously, she served as director of education, meetings and special interest groups at the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry, where she was known for improving operational efficiencies and creating high-value experiences for attendees.

Committed to professional development, Duckett earned Certified Meeting Planner and Certified Association Executive designations. She has served on numerous industry committees and groups with the American Society of Association Executives, the Association of Women in Events, the Professional Convention Management Association and Meeting Professionals International. She has also served as a facilitator at the MCP Boot Camp.

Duckett has received several industry honors, including the American Optometric Association’s President’s Award, the digitalNow Leaders of Distinction Award and Connect Association’s 40 Under 40. She is an ASAE Diversity Executive Leadership Program scholar.

Duckett earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Strayer University. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.