The legacy DNA of associations and their conferences

Abstract

This study examines how international associations create lasting impacts through their conferences. By analyzing mission statements and conference descriptions, it identifies legacy-driven strategies. Using Latent Dirichlet Allocation, the study uncovers key themes and their alignment with associations' missions. Findings show that international associations actively integrate legacy-building into their conference strategies, shaping knowledge dissemination, stakeholder engagement, and long-term societal contributions. Associations collaborate with event organizers, local partners, and stakeholders to extend impacts beyond knowledge exchange, fostering innovation and cross-sector collaboration. This study focuses on association-driven legacy strategies rather than destination marketing or infrastructure legacies. While associations may contribute to tourism and economic outcomes, the primary emphasis is on how they conceptualize and implement legacy-building initiatives within their events.