Episode 145 • 06/26/2025

Mike Moss, President of SCUP, on Integrated Planning, Member-Led Learning, and Strategic Transformation

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How do we prevent strategic plans from sitting on a shelf and instead embed them into an organization’s DNA? How can associations become true communities of practice where learning and innovation are peer-led?

In this episode of Associations Thrive, host Joanna Pineda interviews Mike Moss, President of the Society for College and University Planning (SCUP). Mike discusses:

  • SCUP’s mission as a professional society focused on integrated planning in higher education.
  • The difference between strategic planning and integrated planning—ensuring plans are continuously executed, aligned, and adjusted across departments.
  • Why SCUP’s members are often responsible for planning, even when it’s not in their job titles.
  • SCUP’s new strategic plan that emphasizes becoming a peer-led community of practice rather than an expert-driven organization.
  • Major structural changes to governance, including a new set of flexible bylaws and reimagined committees to better support member collaboration.
  • The transition of SCUP staff—via retirement and new hires—to reflect the new direction, along with upskilling existing staff.
  • Enhancements to their annual conference to foster group-based learning and peer-driven sessions.
  • The SCUP Exchange, a digital collaboration platform that empowers members to connect and lead discussions without top-down oversight.
  • A new, simplified, and more affordable membership model designed to increase access and participation across campuses.

References:

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About Associations Thrive

Associations Thrive podcast is hosted by Joanna Pineda, CEO & Chief Troublemaker at Matrix Group International. Joanna’s personal mission and the mission of Matrix Group is to help associations and nonprofits increase membership, generate revenue and thrive in the digital space. 

We believe that every association has a unique mission and unique story that demonstrates how they’re serving their members, impacting their industry, and ultimately changing the world. Every guest is an association Chief Executive, Executive Director or President. We’re here to help amplify their stories so all associations can learn and thrive, together.

If you and your organization have a great story,  apply to be on Associations Thrive!