51³Ô¹ÏÍø

Shonzia Thompson is the managing vice president of association partnerships, functioning as the Executive Director of the Council of Manufacturing Associations (CMA) at the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø (51³Ô¹ÏÍø). With over 15 years of association management experience, she oversees the leadership, direction and management of over 250 trade association members. She represents the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø to industry and association leaders and is responsible for engaging Council of Manufacturing Associations members to broaden and advance the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s advocacy efforts.

Prior to this role, Shonzia led the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøs Conference and Operations team, providing strategic direction and oversight of the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s portfolio of events at its headquarters and across the country. She also managed the operations of their headquarters facilities and internal services, including conference center operations. Prior to joining the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, she worked for the Professional Development Division at the American Bankers Association.

Shonzia has served in numerous volunteer positions with the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) and the board of directors for Meeting Professionals International, Potomac (PMPI).

Shonzia received her Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Maryland-University College. She is a Certified Association Executive (CAE) and a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP). She resides in Maryland and enjoys sci-fi movies and cruising with her husband and two daughters.