ACAMS Today ( AT ): What was your greatest accomplishment in 2023 ? What do you have in store for 2024 ?
ACAMS Carolinas Chapter ( ACC ): Overall , our biggest
accomplishments in 2023 were getting back to a full programming schedule and making a key leadership decision for the future . We continued our flagship event ― the AML and OFAC Symposium ― and delivered 14 events . We are certainly proud of our programming , but we also spent time refreshing our board membership , ensuring that we migrated leadership positions , and most notably , named Nicolas Khouri and Beth Herron as our next chapter co-chairs . Jim Arndts and Megan Hodge are thrilled to have both Nicolas and Beth step into the co-chair positions in 2024 and are certain they will continue the chapter ’ s positive momentum .
AT : What was your most popular event in 2023 , and what were the main topics discussed ?
ACC : The Carolinas Chapter aims to provide diverse and impactful programming to ACAMS chapter members throughout North and South Carolina . The board of the Carolinas Chapter provides frequent programming to ACAMS members and potential members . In the past 12 months , the chapter has delivered 14 different sessions to over 1,800 attendees in forums ranging from daylong symposiums with topics relevant to the financial crimes landscape to member appreciation events .
Our most popular event in 2023 was “ FinCEN National Priorities ― A Tactical Approach ,” hosting 369 attendees . On June 30 , 2021 , the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network announced the first set of government-wide anti-money laundering ( AML )/ counter-terrorist financing priorities , as required by the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020 . Our panel of experts shared how their institutions have reacted to those priorities and what steps they took since these were announced . Our experts shared tactical and strategic steps as well as best practices on what to do while waiting for additional guidance .
Our second most popular event in 2023 was the “ 2023 AML and OFAC Symposium ,” which had 234 attendees . This event was the ACAMS Carolinas Chapter ’ s third symposium , which offered a full day of education that explored hot topics , best practices and networking opportunities . Topics covered included the Bank Secrecy Act officer round table , organized retail crime , fraud , governance to accelerate innovation , sanctions , human trafficking and a keynote from David Chenkin , managing partner and chair of Government Investigations , White Collar Defense and Anti-Money Laundering Group at Zeichner Ellman & Krause LLP .
AT : You have an active presence on LinkedIn , in addition to running a page for the Carolinas Chapter . What should members be looking for on these pages ?
ACC : We try to reach out to members and future members where they are most active . By sharing across email , LinkedIn and our website , we hope to capture a broad group of AFC professionals in our area to ensure their participation in our educational and networking opportunities . We also recognize that , at times , schedules do not allow participation . The event blog available on our website is a resource where members can access summaries and key takeaways from prior events .
AT : What motivates you to continue hosting events and educating AFC professionals ?
ACC : Our board comprises passionate professionals who believe we are all more successful at combating financial crime when we share knowledge . Creating opportunities for people in our market to build their professional network further amplifies the impact beyond the events themselves . We also recognize that the AFC space is continuously evolving , creating a need for a platform that enables established and emerging thought leaders to share their innovative ideas , practical advice and future projections .
AT : What recommendations do you have for other rising chapters ?
ACC : Our chapter is continuously adapting and maturing as we “ learn by doing .” Chapters are run by volunteers , and it is unlikely that your board members are experts in marketing , event planning , programming , etc .― but a board member willing to jump in and take on the challenge can make a huge impact ! Take the time to take note of successes and opportunities for improvement so that you can better serve your members as you mature .
Programming is critical to the success of the chapter . We have found that focusing on case studies and real-life examples has been beneficial to our members . Events that have actionable takeaways receive the best feedback .
And finally , have fun ! Working in AFC is a rewarding but demanding career . Get creative about networking , volunteering and other opportunities for members to build relationships with each other .
Interviewed by ACAMS Today editorial , ACAMS , Miami , FL , USA , editor @ acams . org
ACAMS Today | December 2023 – February 2024 67