Experience

Association of University Research Parks (AURP)

• United States
• Higher Education
• 1 - 100 Employee

• Chief Executive Officer

  • Apr 2022 - Present

  Recipient of the 2021 AURP Vision Award, Palmer brings to AURP a proven record of success in association management primarily with The Kellen Company, a global association management company. She has over 25 years leadership experience

• Director of Operations & Events

  • Jul 2007 - Apr 2022

  Lead the operations and event management of AURP, a global network of research, science and technology parks. Works alongside the CEO and Board of Directors and oversee staff. Deliver the promises and strategies established by the top leadership. Design and manage conferences, meetings and events, both domestically and internationally, from inception through completion. Lead event committees and build strong relationships to meet the needs and goals of multiple stakeholders. Demonstrate strong attention to detail with exceptional organization skills and proven ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Show less



Kellen

• United States
• Non-profit Organizations
• 100 - 200 Employee

• Executive Director / Account Representative / Meetings Manager

  • Oct 2000 - Jun 2007

  I also held the positions of: Account Manager of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers and National Guardianship Foundation Executive Director of the National Guardianship Association Management Plus, Ltd., merged with The Kellen Company in January 2004. Coordinated all aspects of events for not-for-profit associations while working for a for-profit association management corporation. Doubled the expected exhibitor/sponsor revenues for two years (2006 and 2007). As Accounts Manager and Executive Director, managed daily activities of numerous not-for-profit associations and foundations, including identifying objectives of committees and Board of Directors and communicating those goals to association staff. Show less



Hilton El Conquistador Resort & Country Club

• Catering & Convention Services Executive

  • Jun 1989 - Oct 2000

  Coordinated all details of both large and small conferences, from hotel standpoint, including negotiation of meeting space and menu prices. Total revenue produced in 1999 – an all-time high in revenue for local catering at the property. Awarded an all-expense paid trip to Napa Valley for sales contest. Coordinated all details of both large and small conferences, from hotel standpoint, including negotiation of meeting space and menu prices. Total revenue produced in 1999 – an all-time high in revenue for local catering at the property. Awarded an all-expense paid trip to Napa Valley for sales contest.