Recent News & Press Coverage

Washington, D.C.– January 14, 2026 – The ASCII Group, North America’s original and vendor-neutral community for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), is pleased to announce the appointment of Ted Roller as Chief Community Officer, a newly created executive role focused on strengthening member engagement and expanding ASCII’s community across the United States and Canada.

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In this role, Roller will lead initiatives designed to deepen member connection and engagement, working closely with MSPs to help shape the future of the ASCII community. His focus will be on ensuring ASCII continues to reflect the real-world needs of MSP business owners and remains a trusted resource for peer insight and collaboration.

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Roller brings more than 25 years of experience in the IT channel, with a career spanning MSP ownership and senior channel leadership roles. Earlier in his career, he owned and operated an MSP that was recognized locally as one of the Fast 50 fastest-growing companies, providing firsthand experience with the operational and strategic realities MSPs face.

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He has since held senior channel leadership positions at LogMeIn, Intronis, Mailprotector, CloudRadial, Zomentum, and FlexPoint, where he helped build partner programs, strengthen community engagement, and support growth through indirect sales models. In addition, Roller has contributed to industry education as faculty for CompTIA and has been recognized by organizations including MSPmentor, The Channel Company, and SMB Nation.

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“Ted’s background as both an MSP owner and a channel executive makes him uniquely qualified to lead our community efforts,” said Jerry Koutavas, CEO of The ASCII Group. “His role will be instrumental in strengthening member engagement and expanding ASCII’s reach as we continue to support MSPs across North America.”

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“ASCII has always represented something different in this industry,” said Roller. “It is a community built on trust, openness, and shared experience. I’m honored to join the team and look forward to helping shape the next chapter of member engagement and community leadership.”

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About The ASCII Group, Inc.

The ASCII Group is the premier community of North American MSPs, MSSPs and Solution Providers. The Group has members located throughout the U.S. and Canada, and membership encompasses everyone from credentialed MSPs serving the SMB community to multi-location solution providers with a national and international reach. Founded in 1984, ASCII provides services to members including leveraged purchasing programs, education and training, marketing assistance, extensive peer interaction and more. ASCII works with a vibrant ecosystem of leading and major technology vendors that complement the ASCII community and support the mission of helping MSPs to grow their businesses. For more information, please visit www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact

Jessica Turner

Senior Digital Engagement Manager

Tel: 800-394-2724

Email: jturner@ascii.com

Web: www.ascii.com

Washington, D.C. – January 6, 2026 - The ASCII Group, North America’s original and vendor-neutral community for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), today announced the speaker lineup for ASCII Edge 2026, its multi-city conference series designed to support MSP businessowners through peer-driven education and community engagement.

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Taking place across eight cities in the United States and Canada, ASCII Edge 2026 brings MSPs together for in-person learning, candid discussion, and practical insight rooted in real-world experience. Built by and for MSPs, the series reflects ASCII’s decades long-standing commitment to peer-driven education and community.

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The 2026 series will feature keynote presentations from James Gadomski, shipwreck treasure hunter and History Channel personality, and Carolyn April, Vice President of Research and Market Intelligence at GTIA.

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The speaker lineup also includes sessions from industry leaders and ASCII member MSPs, including Emily Tell of IdeaTilt and Wayne Hunter of AvTek Solutions, alongside Joe Rojas of Start Grow Manage. These sessions bring real-world experience to the stage, covering AI adoption, revenue strategy, and market differentiation.

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Programming will also include hands-on workshops and peer discussion, including a Day 1 workshop from Kaseya, focused on helping MSPs turn underutilized marketing development funds into measurable pipeline results. (Additional workshops to be announced).

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“ASCII Edge has always been about bringing the right people into the room,” said Jerry Koutavas, CEO of The ASCII Group. “When MSPs come together to share openly and learn from one another, they gain clarity and confidence in the decisions they’re making. That’s what ASCII Edge is designed to deliver.”

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For event details and registration, visit events.ascii.com.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc.

The ASCII Group is the premier community of North American MSPs, MSSPs and Solution Providers. The Group has members located throughout the U.S. and Canada, and membership encompasses everyone from credentialed MSPs serving the SMB community to multi-location solution providers with a national and international reach. Founded in 1984, ASCII provides services to members including leveraged purchasing programs, education and training, marketing assistance, extensive peer interaction and more. ASCII works with a vibrant ecosystem of leading and major technology vendors that complement the ASCII community and support the mission of helping MSPs to grow their businesses. For more information, please visit www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact

Alysia Vetter

Chief Marketing Officer

Tel: 800-394-2724

Email: alysia@ascii.com

Web: www.ascii.com

RYTHMz Named Vendor of the Year by the MSP Community Washington, D.C.

- October 31, 2025 -

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Washington, D.C. – October 31, 2025 – The ASCII Group, the original and premier community of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America, is pleased to announce the winners of the 2025 ASCII Cup. This annual award honors technology companies that have made a lasting impact in the MSP channel through innovation, commitment, and engagement.

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The 2025 ASCII Cup was presented in Philadelphia, PA, on October 30, following the final stop of the year for the ASCII Edge conference series. Inspired by Philadelphia’s iconic Rocky legacy, the evening highlighted the strength and perseverance that define the IT channel.

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Throughout 2025, ASCII members voted at eight regional ASCII Edge events across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating technology vendors across 12 categories such as innovation, partner program excellence, and overall value. This peer-driven process ensures the companies recognized are those making the greatest impact on MSPs.

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The 2025ASCII Cup award recipients are:

• 2025 ASCII Cup Vendor of the Year – RYTHMz
• First Runner-Up – Pax8
• Third Place – SonicWall
• Fourth Place – BLOKWORX
• Fifth Place – Microsoft
• Sixth Place – Kaseya
• Seventh Place – Monjur
• Eighth Place – DefensX
• Ninth Place – FutureSafe
• Tenth Place – SuperOps

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“The ASCII Cup reflects the voice of MSPs,” said Jerry Koutavas, CEO of The ASCII Group. “Recognizing RYTHMz as Vendor of the Year, along with the other companies honored, underscores the vital role our industry partners play in helping MSPs succeed.”

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“It is with sincere gratitude that we accept this recognition from The ASCII Group and its members. As a former member myself, I understand the profound impact this community has on an MSP’s journey,” said Steve Copeland, CEO and Founder, RYTHMz. “Our industry is at a pivotal moment—evolving from ‘Managed Services’ to ‘Managed Solutions.’ Through this shift, one truth remains: connectivity is your brand. RYTHMz is proud to help lead this evolution alongside our partners in the ASCII community, and we’re truly honored by this recognition.”

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The celebration also honored the late Alan D. Weinberger, founder of The ASCII Group, whose vision for a vendor-neutral community of IT professionals continues to guide the organization today. For more than 40 years, ASCII has connected IT business owners with resources, programs, and a trusted peer network to help them grow stronger companies. The 2025 ASCII Cup reflects this spirit of collaboration and the vital role technology partners play in MSP success.

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For photos and highlights from the 2025 ASCII Cup, please visit The ASCII Group’s Facebook page.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc.

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The ASCII Group is the premier community of North American MSPs, MSSPs and Solution Providers. The Group has members located throughout the U.S. and Canada, and membership encompasses everyone from credentialed MSPs serving the SMB community to multi-location solution providers with a national and international reach. Founded in 1984, ASCII provides services to members including leveraged purchasing programs, education and training, marketing assistance, extensive peer interaction and more. ASCII works with a vibrant ecosystem of leading and major technology vendors that complement the ASCII community and support the mission of helping MSPs to grow their businesses. For more information, please visit www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact

Alysia Vetter

Chief Marketing Officer

Tel: 800-394-2724

Email: alysia@ascii.com

Web: www.ascii.com

Washington, D.C. – October 16, 2025 – The ASCII Group, the original and premier community of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America, is proud to announce Chad Kempt, Founder of Fast Computers, as the 2025 ASCII Member of the Year.

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This annual recognition honors a member who embodies the collaborative spirit of ASCII—sharing knowledge, building relationships, and contributing to the success of fellow MSPs.

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An ASCII member since 2010, Chad has been an active and trusted voice within the community. As part of the Advisory Committee, he helps shape initiatives that support members’ growth and success. He also leads ASCII’s monthly virtual meetings, fostering open dialogue and peer learning. Known for his thoughtful insights and willingness to share experiences, Chad continues to strengthen the ASCII network.

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This year, Chad also served on the Content Advisory Committee for the 2025 ASCII Edge event series, helping ensure conference sessions reflected the real-world priorities of today’s MSPs—from operations to cybersecurity and service delivery.

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Chad is the first Canadian member to receive this honor. A strong advocate at the ASCII Edge Toronto event, he also co-hosted the Toronto MSP Meetup this summer, helping build deeper connections and collaboration within the Canadian MSP community.

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“ASCII provides an environment conducive to growing business relationships in a trusted and respected way,” said Chad Kempt, Founder, Fast Computers. “I’m honored to be part of a community where everyone contributes to each other’s success.”

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“The Member of the Year award represents the best of what ASCII stands for—collaboration, leadership, and community,” said Jerry Koutavas, CEO of The ASCII Group. “Chad has played a key role in shaping the member experience and elevating the conversations that move our industry forward.”

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The 2025 ASCII Member of the Year Award will be presented at the ASCII Cup celebration in Philadelphia on October 30, 2025, alongside recognition of this year’s top technology vendors.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc:

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The ASCII Group is the premier community of North American MSPs, MSSPs and Solution Providers. The Group has members located throughout the U.S. and Canada, and membership encompasses everyone from credentialed MSPs serving the SMB community to multi-location solution providers with a national and international reach. Founded in 1984, ASCII provides services to members including leveraged purchasing programs, education and training, marketing assistance, extensive peer interaction and more. ASCII works with a vibrant ecosystem of leading and major technology vendors that complement the ASCII community and support the mission of helping MSPs to grow their businesses. For more information, please visit www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact

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Alysia Vetter

Chief Marketing Officer

Tel: 800-394-2724

Email: alysia@ascii.com

Web: www.ascii.com

Washington, D.C. – September 30, 2025– The ASCII Group, the original and premier community of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America, today announced the 2026 schedule for its ASCII Edge conference series. Since 1984, ASCII has remained the only vendor-neutral community dedicated to helping MSPs grow through peer collaboration, education, and industry engagement.

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ASCII Edge 2026 will bring together more than 1,500 MSPs, technology providers, and industry leaders in eight cities across the U.S. and Canada. Each two-day event delivers business-focused sessions, actionable strategies, and high-value networking opportunities designed to help MSPs compete effectively and build stronger businesses.

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ASCII Edge 2026 Dates and Locations

• Costa Mesa, CA – February 25 & 26
• Dallas, TX – March 25 & 26
• Newark, NJ – April 22 & 23
• Seattle, WA – May 27 & 28
• Washington, D.C. – July 22 & 23
• Toronto, ON – August 26 & 27
• Chicago, IL – September 23 & 24
• San Antonio, TX –October 21 & 22

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To ensure high-quality sessions, all vendor presentations are reviewed by the ASCII Edge Content Advisory Committee, comprised of experienced MSP members. This peer-review process reflects ASCII’s commitment to offering content that is practical, non-sales focused, and directly relevant to MSP business challenges.

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“ASCII Edge is built by MSPs, for MSPs,” said Jessie Devine, VP of Channel Development, The ASCII Group. “Our education-focused sessions give MSPs strategies they can act on, while vendors gain meaningful engagement with a community that values trusted partnerships.”

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In addition to peer-driven programming, ASCII Edge 2026 will feature collaborative networking, a solution pavilion with leading technology partners, and the annual ASCII Cup Awards, which recognize the top vendors serving the MSP community. The full lineup of speakers, including the keynote, will be announced later this fall.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc.

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The ASCII Group is the premier community of North American MSPs, MSSPs and Solution Providers. The Group has members located throughout the U.S. and Canada, and membership encompasses everyone from credentialed MSPs serving the SMB community to multi-location solution providers with a national and international reach. Founded in 1984, ASCII provides services to members including leveraged purchasing programs, education and training, marketing assistance, extensive peer interaction and more. ASCII works with a vibrant ecosystem of leading and major technology vendors that complement the ASCII community and support the mission of helping MSPs to grow their businesses. For more information, please visit www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact:

Alysia Vetter

Chief Marketing Officer

Tel: 800-394-2724

Email: alysia@ascii.com

Web: www.ascii.com

Washington, D.C. – July 17, 2025 – The ASCII Group, North America’s original vendor-neutral community for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), has launched a redesigned corporate website and a new member portal, delivering a more connected and engaging experience for today’s MSPs.

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These updates reflect a broader initiative to elevate the ASCII experience—streamlining access to programs, enhancing peer collaboration, and building on the vision of ASCII’s late founder, Alan Weinberger, who championed the power of community in the IT channel.

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The new website features improved navigation, refreshed content, and a clearer representation of ASCII’s vendor-neutral position in the market. It also provides easier access to information on member benefits, industry events, and peer programs.

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“The new site is a true reflection of the community we serve,” said Jerry Koutavas, CEO of The ASCII Group. “It reinforces our commitment to helping MSPs grow and stay competitive, while better showcasing the breadth and depth of what ASCII offers.”

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Earlier this year, ASCII also introduced its member benefit portal—a centralized platform for real-time community engagement. Built to support meaningful peer interaction, the portal enables members to submit subcontracting requests, exchange vendor recommendations, explore acquisition opportunities, and offer or receive support during service disruptions or emergencies.

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“The member portal brings to light what has always existed within our community—MSPs supporting each other in practical, business-focused ways,” added Koutavas. “By formalizing that collaboration, we’ve made it easier for members to connect, share, and solve challenges together.”

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Both the website and portal were developed with direct input from ASCII members and are part of the organization’s ongoing effort to remain the most accessible, trusted, and community-driven resource for MSPs in the channel.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc.

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Founded in 1984, The ASCII Group is the original IT community of the channel, uniting Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America. As a vendor-neutral organization, ASCII provides unbiased resources and a collaborative environment to support business growth. Members span the U.S. and Canada, ranging from SMB-focused MSPs to international solution providers. ASCII offers leveraged purchasing programs, education, marketing support, peer networking, and more, complemented by a vibrant ecosystem of technology vendors. Learn more at www.ascii.com.

Press Contact:

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Alysia Vetter
Chief Marketing Officer
Tel: 800-394-2724 x131
Email: alysia@ascii.com
Web: www.ascii.com

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Washington, D.C. – July 7, 2025 – The ASCII Group is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its Founder and Chairman, Alan D. Weinberger, who died on June 29, after a courageous battle with cancer.

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Alan was more than a leader—he was a visionary, a legal scholar, and a fierce advocate for the IT channel. In 1984, he founded The ASCII Group with 40 independent computer dealers and a bold idea: that the IT industry could thrive through community, collaboration, and shared purpose. Over the next four decades, he led ASCII to become the preeminent independent IT community in North America, serving thousands of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and solution providers.

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A sharp and inquisitive legal mind, Alan earned his J.D. from NYU, where he was a Law Review Editor and Order of the Coif honoree, followed by an LL.M. from Harvard Law School. He was a founding professor at Vermont Law School and brought thoughtful leadership and strategic vision to every stage of ASCII’s growth.

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Alan was widely respected as a thought leader in the IT industry. His editorials appeared in major publications including The Wall Street Journal, and he was named one of the Top 25 Most Influential Executives in the Computer Industry by CRN. His most recent book—The Doctor’s In: Treating America’s Greatest Cyber Security Threat—spotlights the essential role MSPs play in safeguarding organizations in today’s evolving cyber landscape. Written for the general public, the book reflects Alan’s lifelong mission to elevate IT professionals and the work they do.

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“Alan was deeply committed to community and to raising the visibility of the MSP to the world. He recognized their importance long before others did and dedicated his life to championing their value,” said Jerry Koutavas, CEO of The ASCII Group. “His vision created a powerful community that changed the lives of thousands of IT professionals. We will carry his legacy forward with the same passion and purpose that he instilled in all of us.”

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Alan’s unmistakable voice, sharp curiosity, and ability to form lasting connections left a profound impact on the IT channel. For more than four decades, he was a true champion of the industry—a trusted advocate, mentor, and driving force behind positive change in the IT world.

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For those who wish to share condolences or memories, a memorial page has been created by Alan’s family and can be found here: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/legacyremembers/alan-weinberger-obituary?id=58760497

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Media Contact:
Alysia Vetter
Chief Marketing Officer
Tel: 800-394-2724 x131
Email: alysia@ascii.com
Web: www.ascii.com

The ASCII Group Appoints Jerry Koutavas as CEO, Founder Alan Weinberger Named Non-Operating Chairman of the Board

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Washington, D.C. – June 18, 2025 – The ASCII Group, North America’s original vendor-neutral community for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), today announced the appointment of Jerry Koutavas as Chief Executive Officer. Alan Weinberger, founder and former CEO, will transition into the role of Non-operating Chairman of the Board, continuing his decades-long mission to advocate for the IT channel.

Weinberger founded The ASCII Group in 1984, pioneering the first collaborative organization of its kind for IT solution providers. At a time when MSPs had limited resources and little collective representation, Weinberger’s vision created a peer-driven, vendor-free community focused on growth, independence, and shared success. Under his leadership, ASCII became a respected force in the channel—uniting thousands of IT providers across North America.

“Building The ASCII Group from the ground up and watching it evolve into a true community has been one of the most meaningful journeys of my life,” said Weinberger. “This organization has always stood for trust, collaboration, and independence. Jerry has been a steward of that mission for many years, and I have full confidence in his leadership as ASCII moves into its next chapter.”

Koutavas, who has worked in the IT channel for nearly 30 years, played a key role in helping thousands of providers transition from break/fix to managed services. During his tenure, he helped establish one of the industry’s most effective vendor-free peer networks—facilitating over 500,000 member-to-member exchanges that have solved technical issues, improved service delivery, and guided critical business decisions.

“Alan built something truly special—a values-driven organization that puts people first and has stood the test of time,” said Koutavas. “I’m deeply grateful for his vision and leadership, and it’s an honor to carry that legacy forward as we continue to support this incredible community through its next phase of growth and opportunity.”

David Stinner, President of US itek and member of ASCII’s Advisory Committee, shared, “I’m excited to see Jerry take on the role of CEO and lead The ASCII Group into its next chapter. His leadership and deep understanding of the MSP community have been instrumental in bringing together valuable vendor relationships, industry experts, and meaningful programs that support members like myself. I look forward to seeing how ASCII continues to grow and evolve under his guidance.”

Rob Rae, CVP of Community and Ecosystems at Pax8, added, “Few organizations in our industry have stood the test of time like ASCII. Alan’s vision created a community that has empowered MSPs, and what continues to set ASCII apart is the leadership behind it. Jerry’s ability to anticipate where the industry is headed allows ASCII to adapt while fostering trust, collaboration, and long-term value for its members.”

This leadership transition reaffirms The ASCII Groups commitment to its founding principles while positioning the organization to meet the evolving needs of today’s IT and MSP landscape—through community, innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence.

About The ASCII Group, Inc.

Founded in 1984, The ASCII Group is the original IT community of the channel, uniting Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America. As a vendor-neutral organization, ASCII provides unbiased resources and a collaborative environment to support business growth. Members span the U.S. and Canada, ranging from SMB-focused MSPs to international solution providers. ASCII offers leveraged purchasing programs, education, marketing support, peer networking, and more, complemented by a vibrant ecosystem of technology vendors. Learn more at www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact
Alysia Vetter
Chief Marketing Officer
Tel: 800-394-2724
Email: alysia@ascii.com
Web: www.ascii.com

The ASCII Group Expands Member Advisory Committee with Four New Appointments

The ASCII Group Announces the Passing of Founder and Chairman Alan Weinberger

Washington, D.C. – February 19, 2025 – The ASCII Group, North America’s leading community for independent Managed Service Providers (MSPs), is pleased to announce the appointment of four distinguished MSP leaders to its Member Advisory Committee: Kathy Durfee of TechHouse; Michael Goldstein of LAN Infotech, LLC; Felicia King of Quality Plus Consulting; and Ken Wong of DragonTek International. These accomplished professionals bring a wealth of experience and insight to the committee, further strengthening ASCII’s commitment to supporting MSPs in an ever-evolving technology landscape.

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The Member Advisory Committee is comprised of select IT professionals from diverse technology sectors who collaborate with ASCII leadership to provide strategic input on membership initiatives, industry challenges, and emerging opportunities. By expanding the committee with these new members, ASCII is reinforcing its mission to equip MSPs with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the next phase of industry transformation.

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“Our Advisory Committee plays a crucial role in shaping the direction of ASCII’s programs and initiatives,” said Alan Weinberger, Chairman and CEO of The ASCII Group. “The addition of Kathy, Michael, Felicia, and Ken enhances our ability to provide meaningful guidance to our growing community as the industry continues to evolve.”

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Representing 12 member businesses across North America, the Member Advisory Committee meets regularly with ASCII leadership to discuss new alliances, peer networking opportunities, and innovative ways to bring value to the membership.

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In addition to the newly appointed members, the ASCII Member Advisory Committee includes Joe Balsarotti, Tom Fox, Sean Jennings, Chad Kempt, Stanley Louissaint, Stephen Monk, Kim Nielsen, and David Stinner. Established in 2001, the committee remains a vital part of ASCII’s dedication to fostering collaboration and driving innovation within the MSP community.

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For more information about The ASCII Group and its initiatives, visit www.ascii.com.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc.

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Founded in 1984, The ASCII Group is the original IT community of the channel, uniting Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America. As a vendor-neutral organization, ASCII provides unbiased resources and a collaborative environment to support business growth. Members span the U.S. and Canada, ranging from SMB-focused MSPs to international solution providers. ASCII offers leveraged purchasing programs, education, marketing support, peer networking, and more, complemented by a vibrant ecosystem of technology vendors.

Learn more at www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact

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Alysia Vetter
Chief

Marketing Officer


Tel: 800-394-2724


Email: alysia@ascii.com


Web: www.ascii.com