When Leaders Say Yes: Why This Executive Invested in Her Admin's Development

Professional development is most powerful when it has leadership’s support. At EA Ignite Spring 2025, Rachel Rice, Director of Administrative Coordination at CSH - Illinois and Strategic Advisor on the ASAP Advisory Board, attended alongside other senior-level administrative professionals to sharpen her skills, expand her network, and bring fresh ideas back to her organization.

But her growth didn’t begin at the conference; it began with an executive who recognized the value of investing in high-level administrative leadership.

In this spotlight interview, Rachel and her executive reflect on what led to their decision, the impact of her experience, and why professional development for administrative professionals at every level is a strategic advantage.

Whether you’re a leader wondering if it’s worth the investment, or an admin looking to make the case, this conversation offers firsthand insight into the value of executive support when it comes to accessing applicable training.

Interview with Rachel Rice, Director of Administrative Coordination at CSH

ASAP: What initially led you to consider EA Ignite, and how did you present the idea to your executive?

Rachel Rice: I have always wanted to attend EA Ignite, but our team typically attends APC. When I was invited to speak on a panel at EA Ignite Spring 2025, I was elated! This meant that I now had the opportunity to attend, and when I shared the opportunity with my executive, she thought it would be a great opportunity for me to learn more and network.

As a Director, what were your goals for attending, and how did the event align with them?

My goals for attending EA Ignite were to:

1. Gain firsthand insight into the conference experience with the hope of recommending it to others; and

2. Connect and network with EAs.

The team I lead at CSH is composed of high-level admins, not EAs. They provide support to executives and non-executives. Gaining insight into the experience of EAs who also support various roles is helpful to me as an admin leader. I can apply what I learn from others to strengthen the outputs of my team. EA Ignite provided space for me to meet with and listen to the stories and experiences of EAs from various industries. I found it interesting that a common conversation thread was the lack of understanding of what they actually do. This was not a shock.

Were there any sessions or takeaways that felt particularly relevant to your leadership role?

I found each session that I attended to be valuable. The most influential was the roundtable led by Joshua Washington. Joshua provided valuable insights into leveraging the best outcomes from your 1:1 meetings with your executive. He shared the “Four Commandments That Will Change Your Career.” Know thyself resonated deeply with me, as I believe this is the foundation for success. I also enjoyed the down-to-earth session led by Ellen Bailey on owning your role as a leader. Hearing Ellen’s career journey was inspiring and encouraged me to continue moving in the direction of my desires, while also leveling up my communication and presence.

How has your approach or mindset shifted since attending?

I am motivated to continue empowering my team. The work is rewarding and challenging. Having the experience of networking, mentoring, and learning from peers was refreshing. I appreciated the Braindate networking opportunities, as I was able to share my expertise in cross-functional collaboration with my admin colleagues.

What would you say to another senior-level admin who’s considering attending—but isn’t sure how to advocate for it?

I would encourage any senior-level admin to attend at least once! Each session will inspire and motivate you to embrace your importance while also providing a fresh perspective on familiar topics.

Interview with Rachel’s Executive, Robin L. Robin, 
Chief People & Administrative Officer at CSH

ASAP: What influenced your decision to support Rachel’s attendance at EA Ignite?

Robin L. Robin: One of Rachel's greatest strengths is learning. I know that if Rachel is in a learning environment, she will absorb as much information as possible and will share what she has learned with others. There was no hesitation to have Rachel join this conference. I knew that she would pull valuable information that would be beneficial to her team and the organization as a whole.

Did you see this as a strategic investment in her leadership, or your team more broadly? What differences—if any—have you noticed in how Rachel approaches challenges or opportunities post-event?

Rachel returned with more enthusiasm for leading the Administrative Coordination team at CSH. She also shared insights that she gained from the various conference sessions. It was a moment of pride for me to share panel space with Rachel to discuss the keys to a strong executive partnership. Rachel truly embodies the spirit of teamwork, and I am lucky to have her as a support person and thought partner.

How do you view the role of professional development in retaining and advancing senior administrative professionals?

Senior admins need to stay current with the latest industry trends, terms, and training. I view professional development as essential to keeping admins ahead. The role is essential and needed at every level, in every industry. Admins have an important role to play in the success of deliverables and outcomes. Ensuring that they are well-trained is essential.

What would you say to a peer who doesn’t see admin training as a priority?

I would encourage them to reconsider the ROI. A small investment in professional development could result in greater returns in the future. These returns can be seen in improved efficiency and improved staff morale. I believe that ASAP is truly invested in the development of the admin role, and I am happy to support the engagement of my staff with such an organization.

Would you support her attending again in the future? Why?

I would absolutely support Rachel attending EA Ignite in the future. I would also encourage our CEO to consider the participation of her assistant. I observed a well-organized event with dynamic speakers. I actually attended a few sessions myself, including a roundtable discussion led by an organizational psychologist—I was impressed with his approach to tailor the content to the profession and their ability to empower admins.

EA Ignite: Where Executive Assistants Become Leaders

EA Ignite offers immersive, executive-level training tailored for experienced administrative professionals. When organizations support the growth of their senior-level admins, the return is clear: more capable leaders, stronger partnerships, and smarter operations.

Learn more about EA Ignite and how it’s helping organizations invest wisely in their administrative leadership.