I'm taking a break from my usual data management tips to acknowledge the passing of an industry legend. Last week, Loretta DeLuca, CEO of DelCor, passed away. For those of you who didn't know Loretta, she was the CEO of DelCor, an IT consulting firm, that has served the association market for nearly 40 years. You can read more about Loretta and her many at accomplishments at DelCor's website.

I've known Loretta since before I began consulting 26 years ago. She was a mainstay at ASAE events, and of course, she and I shared a passion for data management and technology. I had the privilege of speaking on several panels with her at different association conferences over the years. She had strong opinions and provided great advice to anyone willing to listen. And her clients absolutely loved her.

My friend Ben Muscalino put it well: "Loretta was somehow an incredibly tender and thoughtful person while building an empire along the way. Something few can do, be a beast in business, and a human in the hallway."

I've always loved working in and serving the association community, and Loretta was a perfect example of the kind of person that makes the community great. She will be sorely missed. RIP.