At ASQ’s 2025 World Conference on Quality and Improvement (WCQI) I had the opportunity to speak from the ‘big stage’ about community. Oxford defines community as 1. a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common; and 2. a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals. ASQ is one large community, and there are dozens of communities of various sizes that are aligned with the second definition within the larger community.

ASQ members have access to 26 technical communities, often referred to as divisions or forums, that cover a wide range of industries and topics within ASQ. These communities are designed to support networking, best practices, and professional development for our members.

In addition to technical communities, members also have access to nearly 240 sections (local member communities) worldwide. Sections are geographically based and provide opportunities for networking, professional development, and leadership at the local level. Each section is led by member leaders (volunteers) and offers activities such as social events, meetings, newsletters, educational courses, seminars, and conferences.

Additionally, each of ASQ’s committees and task forces is a small community working within a defined framework to advance the work of ASQ. Such committees include the Conference Council, Society Examining Committee, Bylaws Committee, Governance Committee, Awards Board, and Standards Committee, just to name a few.

Community is at the heart of everything we do within ASQ. What community looks like can vary for each of our members, but no matter how we define it, it is something that binds us together.

As I participated in the events at WCQI, I saw and felt the sense of community. I witnessed and met members and participants from across the globe coming together, strengthening existing relations, and building new ones. At WCQI, it is always inspiring to see our communities in action. Our technical communities host technical sessions as well as provide a physical presence in the exhibit hall, meeting members where they are. Local communities also have a presence in the exhibit hall hosted by the Geographic Communities Council, where members can meet with region and section leaders.

Communities have been the foundation of ASQ and provide a sense of belonging for as long as ASQ has served our members. As the next generations join the workforce and begin to engage with ASQ, their sense of community will likely look different than those of the past. Many of our newer members are more digitally native so community might be something that happens online only. They find connections on platforms like myASQ, where they are able to engage in global discussions on quality topics and attend virtual learning sessions that fit their needs. The virtual sense of community is just as real and important as the in-person connections many of us cherish. It’s simply another way of connecting, learning, and growing together.

We must continue to build a community where everyone we engage with – whether formal members, clients, prospective members, event attendees, and others – feels a sense of belonging, partnership, and growth. To do this, we must meet our members where they are, with the best content, resources, and engagement opportunities to help them grow as quality professionals and practitioners.   

And that’s where each of us comes in. As leaders within ASQ, we must be proactive in ensuring our communities are inclusive and welcoming to all. If you belong to a community that engages in person, I encourage you to think about how you can extend that community to those who may not be able to attend events in person. If you are part of a virtual community, think about ways to reach out to those who may not be digital natives and help them feel connected. We are at our strongest when every member feels they have a place and when we offer meaningful engagement opportunities to all members of ASQ.

ASQ’s mission outlines the importance of community perfectly: ASQ is a global community collaborating to advance excellence through quality. That’s what it is all about: collaboration, excellence, and quality – all powered by the communities we build together. As I prepare to assume the role of Chair next year, I commit to continuing the work of strengthening our community within ASQ.