July 10, 2026
Irene Costello, our Director of Operations, has earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential, the highest professional designation in association management.
The achievement recognizes more than professional expertise. It reflects Irene’s leadership throughout her more than seven years with the organization, where she has helped build the systems, culture, and operational foundation that have fueled Canopy’s growth.
“Strong organizations don’t happen by accident.”
— Irene Costello, CAE
Since joining what was then The Markens Group, Irene has been one of the architects behind the organization’s evolution. She has guided the onboarding of new association clients, developed sustainable operational practices, led the firm’s transition to Canopy Management Group, and played a key leadership role in the company’s recent headquarters relocation. As the organization has grown, she has ensured its people, processes, and systems have grown alongside it.
Today, Irene also leads Canopy’s AMC Institute Accreditation Program, helping the firm uphold the highest standards of governance, financial stewardship, client service, and operational excellence. Her work not only strengthens Canopy but also helps clients benefit from the same best practices that guide the organization’s own success.
“Irene has played a defining role in shaping Canopy into the company we are today,” said Emily Leonczyk, MBA, CAE, President & CEO of Canopy Management Group. “She sees where we’re going without losing sight of what it takes to get there, bringing equal attention to strategy, people, and execution. She leads by example, and her leadership is woven into our culture, the way we serve our clients, and the standard we hold ourselves to every day.
“Earning her CAE reflects what I’ve always admired about Irene: she never stops learning, she’s always looking for ways to make organizations stronger, and she builds relationships that earn trust and make people want to work alongside her.”
The CAE credential is awarded by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) to professionals who demonstrate significant experience in association leadership and successfully complete a rigorous examination covering governance, strategy, finance, membership, operations, communications, and organizational management. The designation is recognized throughout the profession as the highest standard of achievement in association management.
“She leads by example, and her leadership is woven into our culture.”
— Emily Leonczyk, President & CEO
“Pursuing the CAE allowed me to step back and think more intentionally about what makes associations successful,” said Irene. “It reinforced that strong organizations don’t happen by accident. They’re built through thoughtful leadership, continuous improvement, and people who are committed to doing the work well. I’m grateful to be part of a team that challenges one another to keep growing and to partner with clients whose missions make a meaningful impact. That commitment to growth, partnership, and excellence reflects the values that define Canopy.”
This year, Irene is leading Canopy’s reaccreditation process, applying the same commitment to continuous improvement that has defined her career and that the CAE now formally recognizes. Her leadership reflects a belief at the heart of Canopy: that excellence is not a destination but a discipline, one practiced day after day for teammates, clients, and the associations they serve.
Congratulations, Irene.