Hampstead, MD. A local magician and longtime advocate for the art of magic has once again been recognized nationally for his efforts to grow the membership of the Society of American Magicians (S.A.M.).
Dave Thomen, president of S.A.M. Assembly 6, received the organization’s annual Dean’s List Award for recruiting the most new members—an honor he also received in 2024. Thomen traveled to Appleton, Wisconsin, during the first week of July to accept the award in person at the S.A.M.’s national convention, held in conjunction with events commemorating the 100th anniversary of the death of legendary magician Harry Houdini.
The Society of American Magicians traces its Baltimore-area roots to 1920, when local magicians formed an Assembly of the organization. Today, the S.A.M. has more than 300 Assemblies around the world and remains the oldest fraternal organization dedicated to the art of magic.
For more than a century, the local Assembly has provided a place where amateur and professional magicians can come together for fellowship, mentorship, education and a shared appreciation for the performance and history of magic.
Thomen, a professional magician who also teaches magic through summer camps and college programs, believes there is no substitute for gathering in person. At monthly meetings, experienced performers can offer immediate feedback, while newcomers have an opportunity to share a trick, ask questions or simply watch and learn.
The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Chestnut Ridge Church in Lutherville. Thomen works to create a welcoming atmosphere where magicians of all experience levels can feel comfortable learning and experimenting.
“It's the perfect place to mess up and not be embarrassed,” Thomen said. “Everyone is there to learn, share and have fun. We want to introduce people to magic as something cool, creative and fun for anyone.”
In addition to receiving the Dean’s List Award for the second time in three years, Thomen was recently inducted into the S.A.M.’s National Council and now serves as a Mid-Atlantic Regional Vice President.
Thomen welcomes anyone interested in magic, including beginners and those who simply want to learn more—to attend an upcoming meeting as a guest.
The local Assembly continues a tradition that began more than 100 years ago: bringing people together through a shared fascination with the mystery, skill and entertainment of magic.
Attached photo description: On July 3, 2026, S.A.M. First Vice President Marc DeSouza presents the 2026 Dean’s List Recruiting Award to Assembly 6 President Dave Thomen during the Society of American Magicians National Convention in Appleton, Wisconsin.
