As the executive assistant for the International Sleep Products Association executive leadership team, Traci McGillicuddy handles some serious stuff, from ISPA event logistics and reporting to compliance and contract maintenance. But what makes it work are the relationships she has with the people around her. “Our management placed me on the staff social committee for a reason,” she says. “I love being around people, making them feel at ease, and coaxing laughs. Nothing is more important in life than our relationships!”
BedTimes: What keeps you recharged and passionate about this industry?
Traci McGillicuddy: The staff around me and the industry folks that I meet at conferences and other events always add pep to my step.
BT: What drew you to the industry initially?
TM: Coming from nonprofit education and advocacy, I didn’t know much about the trade association landscape. It only took one interview to know I wanted to work with this staff. I love that ISPA touches upon global issues through advocacy, education, and marketing.
BT: What’s something unique about ISPA that people might not know?
TM: I think people underestimate its global reach. I have met so many wonderful international members at ISPA EXPO and in my daily duties!
BT: What is one of the most exciting things or projects you’ve accomplished at ISPA?
TM: I always love planning for our ISPA and Mattress Recycling Council board meetings. Lots of details go behind the meetings where the association-wide decisions are made.
BT: Can you share a few details about your family and personal life?
TM: This year marks my 25th anniversary (!) with my amazing husband, Mike, who just retired from a long career with the federal government. We are blessed with three teenagers, one of whom just finished her first year of college. I rotate between laughing and fretting over their many adventures.
BT: What hobbies or passions do you have outside of work?
TM: I just “retired” from coaching travel basketball to enjoy more time with my own family. Otherwise, you can find me rooting for my Chicago Cubs or reading good fiction.
BT: What’s something unique about you that people might not know?
TM: Weirdly, I have two ancestors who were killed in the Salem witch trials.
BT: What is a book, podcast, or movie you enjoyed recently that you want to recommend to others?
TM: I really enjoy unconventional books that challenge the normal tropes of literary fiction. I was recently struck by Bae Suah’s Untold Night and Day, as her characters and plot weave a surreal, David Lynchian story that demanded a reread of some chapters.
