The legacy DNA of associations and their conferences

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. • Innovative analysis of international association mission statements • Use of advanced qualitative data analysis software • Unearths key themes shaping global conference agenda. • Analysis aids in strategy formulation in event planning. • Highlights the importance of legacy building in conferences.