Cori Taniguchi Earns Prestigious CAE Designation

Cori Taniguchi being recognized among her peers at the BAE Meeting in Boston

Seattle, WA — BOMA Greater Seattle is proud to announce that Cori Taniguchi, Director of Operations, has officially earned her Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential—widely regarded as the highest professional certification in the association management profession. Awarded by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), the CAE designation is a hallmark of excellence and leadership in the nonprofit sector.

To achieve this distinguished credential, Cori met a rigorous set of requirements, including:

• A minimum of five years in nonprofit or association management
• Completion of over 100 hours of professional development in association-related topics
• Passing a comprehensive four-hour exam that tests knowledge across nine domains such as strategic planning, governance, membership engagement, financial management, and ethics

The CAE designation places Cori among a select group of association professionals across the country who have demonstrated the highest level of commitment and competency in the field. Fewer than 5,000 individuals nationwide and only 22 in Washington state hold this credential, it is a meaningful milestone for both Cori and the BOMA Greater Seattle team.

“Earning the CAE was about more than professional validation—it was about continuing to show up with intention for our members. Involvement in ASAE has been a great resource for information on the latest trends and best practices in association management." Cori Taniguchi said. "I am grateful for the support that I have received from BOMA Greater Seattle, BOMA locals across the country, and the BOMA International community while working towards this professional goal."

As an association executive representing professionals in commercial real estate management, it’s essential to understand both the work our members do and the support they need. In addition to managing the association itself, it’s important to recognize that a 501(c)(6) trade association operates as a distinct type of business with its own unique challenges and responsibilities.

Cori began her association management career in January 2012 when she joined the BOMA team.  As BOMA Greater Seattle expanded the services we offered members, Cori’s responsibilities also grew, and she was promoted to Director of Operations at BOMA in early 2020. 

Her colleagues at BOMA Greater Seattle recognize this achievement as a reflection of her deep dedication to the mission and long-term vision of the organization.

"By achieving her designation as a CAE, Cori has demonstrated top-level competence across the broad scope of knowledge and skills that are needed by the best practitioners in our disciplines. This is an outstanding achievement for Cori as she continues her service to BOMA, our members, and our industry," stated Rod Kauffman, President of BOMA Greater Seattle.

With this designation, Cori is positioned to continue elevating the association’s impact, foster strong partnerships, and drive meaningful progress across the commercial real estate industry in the Greater Seattle region.

To learn more about the CAE credential, visit https://www.asaecenter.org/programs/cae-certification.