Group organizes as the “Society for Bird Doggers (S.O.B.s)” and months later changes name to “National Society for Marketing Professional Services.”

Andy Zinsmeyer registered as first member.

SMPSnews debuts.

Annual achievement award competition is launched.

National office moves to Washington, DC area.

Convention held outside of the U.S. in Toronto, ON.

First chapter is chartered (Michigan).

Annual budget exceeds $1 million.

First chapter president of the year honored: Ruth Higley, Nashville Chapter.

Website www.smps.org is launched.

Certified Professional Services Marketer program introduced.

SMPS National Conference renamed Build Business.

Inaugural The Pinnacle Experience event is organized.

Formal DEI programs initiated.

Lou Zickler selected as the first president. Andy Zinsmeyer appointed first employee (part time).

First national conference held in Washington, DC.

SMPS incorporates as nonprofit corporation.

First Southeast Regional Conference held in Atlanta, GA.

National office opens in St. Louis, MO.

Marketing Information Report published, “The Marketing Coordinator.”

First full time employee hired.

First issue of Marketer published.

First salary and expense survey of members conducted.

Diane Creel is the recipient of the first Marketing Achievement Award.

SMPS Foundation is formed.

SMPS Foundation published its first research report.

Society for Marketing Professional Services Handbook published.

Testing and certification programs begin.

Fellows Recognition Program established.

First policy statement on diversity is approved.

SMPS University: Leadership Advancement Program begins.

SMPS launches a new brand starring Revolutionary Orange and Business Black.

The annual conference is renamed Amplify A|E|C.