The Dermatology Nurses’ Association, which enjoyed near-record attendance at its 25th annual convention, used the anniversary as a springboard to market the meeting.

“The anniversary and excitement surrounding the celebration at the D.C. convention certainly helped to boost attendance,” states Michael Brennan, executive director at DNA, which is managed by association management company Anthony J. Jannetti Inc., Pitman, N.J. More than 1,000 people attended the meeting, held at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City in Washington, D.C., February 1-4.

To promote the convention, the association created an anniversary logo and used it on all materials, including newsletters and conference brochures, as well as on its Web site. Every attendee received pashminas (scarves, shawls) embroidered with the 25th anniversary logo at the opening night reception.

The organization also created an interactive Web site called “DNA and You: The First 25 Years,” which includes a year-by-year timeline noting highlights in the association’s history. Members were encouraged to leave comments about this year’s meeting, past meetings, and their memories and experiences with DNA, explains Brennan. “This interactive history will be around for years,” he says.

While the past was honored at the opening-night reception and in other activities, the future of the industry was the focus of the educational sessions, reflecting the theme of the meeting, Embracing the Future of Dermatology.