09/16/2026
AFCEA South Florida Chapter
Monthly Board of Executives Meeting Minutes
Date: August 6, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM โ 7:00 PM
Duration: 1 hour
Board Members Present:
Jay Hunter Anson, President
Waldemar โWaldyโ Cruz, Secretary & 2nd Vice President
Bethany Peterson, 1st Vice President
Devon Stephenson, Membership Director
David Durham, Treasurer
Absent: None
1. Call to Order
The AFCEA South Florida Chapter Monthly Board of Executives Meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM. All Board members were present.
2. Happy Hour Program
The Board discussed the Chapterโs Happy Hour Program as an opportunity to increase member engagement, provide informal networking opportunities, recognize members, and strengthen connections among the defense, government, industry, academic, cybersecurity, and technology communities in South Florida.
The Board discussed continuing to develop the program as part of the Chapterโs broader events and membership strategy.
3. Operation Collaboration โ Weston
The Board discussed plans for the upcoming Operation Collaboration event in Weston, Florida. Discussion included event coordination, outreach, participation by community and government partners, sponsorship, and opportunities to introduce AFCEA to new audiences.
The Board emphasized using Operation Collaboration to strengthen relationships across the South Florida defense, government, law enforcement, cybersecurity, technology, and business communities.
4. Event Coordination โ Studio Solian
The Board discussed hiring Studio Solian to serve as the Chapterโs events coordinator. The role would support planning, organization, logistics, and ex*****on of Chapter events and help establish greater consistency as the Chapterโs event calendar continues to grow.
5. Membership and Chapter Growth
The Board emphasized membership growth and engagement as a major Chapter priority. Discussion focused on increasing awareness of AFCEA South Florida, recruiting new members, engaging existing members, and using Chapter events and partnerships to expand the organizationโs reach throughout South Florida.
The Board agreed that programming, outreach, partnerships, and networking activities should continue to support the broader objective of building a larger, more active, and engaged Chapter membership.
6. Upcoming Activities
The Board reviewed upcoming Chapter activities and discussed maintaining a consistent schedule of networking, professional development, community outreach, STEM, and fundraising events. Members discussed leveraging these activities to increase visibility, develop partnerships, attract sponsors, and provide additional value to Chapter members.
7. Adjournment
With no additional business raised, the meeting concluded at approximately 7:00 PM.
Prepared for:
AFCEA South Florida Chapter Board of Executives
2026โ2027 Term
