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Mar 04, 2024 By Vasia Rigou
Elevating Leadership: 2024 Winter CLC
Redefining the essence of leadership in the design industry—insights from our winter Chapter Leadership Council
By Vasia Rigou Mar 04, 2024
Published in Membership

The 2024 Winter Chapter Leadership Council (CLC) at IIDA Headquarters unfolded as an electrifying gathering that not only set new benchmarks for holistic leadership and embracing change but also invigorated the spirit of community and collaboration among IIDA Chapter leaders. In a series of enlightening conversations, leaders delved into the nuances of governance, shedding light on critical aspects like the emotional and physical well-being of members and the pivotal role of leadership transitions in fostering chapter evolution and resilience.

Over an action-packed three days, IIDA Chapter Presidents, Presidents-elect, VPs of Administration, and Chapter Administrators—both new and experienced ones—from across the country came together with a sole mission: to enhance their leadership skills. Comprehensive roundtable discussions, presentations, and breakout sessions as well as opportunities to network, unwind, and get to know one another through fun activities (hello chapter speed dating!) were all part of the mix. The atmosphere buzzed with energy, as Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA, Executive Vice President and CEO, IIDA, welcomed the leaders into HQ only to discover that everyone was eager to share strategies, challenges, and success stories, forging a path for others to follow. But at this Winter’s CLC, they didn't just do that: they first revealed their superpowers, from strategic optimism to the uncanny ability to throw problems out the window—literally and figuratively—proving that capes are optional in the world of interior design leadership.

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2024 IIDA Winter Chapter Leadership Council. Photograpy by Elliot Mandel
2024 IIDA Winter Chapter Leadership Council. Photograpy by Elliot Mandel
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2024 IIDA Winter Chapter Leadership Council. Photograpy by Elliot Mandel
2024 IIDA Winter Chapter Leadership Council. Photograpy by Elliot Mandel

The event was a hotbed of innovation, offering invaluable insights into succession planning, mentorship, and strategic recruitment. Sascha Wagner, FIIDA, AIA, IIDA International Board Past President, was inspiring in his talk about finding balance between an individual’s passions and a Chapter’s needs—a “win, win, win” for the person, the Association, and the board, as he put it. “Find middle ground or pivot,” he said, stressing the importance of normalizing transition. “The key is to look at people from a lens of their future potential,” he added. Recurring themes included nurturing young talent, building a culture of mentorship by identifying the right match between mentors and emerging professionals, and providing appreciation and holistic support within Chapters by attending to the emotional needs of both members and leaders, which ties to fostering a sense of belonging and community.

These discussions were designed not just to navigate leadership transitions smoothly but to transform them into opportunities for growth, sustainability, and vibrancy within chapters. From building a better association board (a key to effective governance, innovation, and member satisfaction, guiding the organization towards strategic success and ensuring responsiveness to member needs,) to advocacy workshops, the event was a rich, multifaceted experience, offering comprehensive insights and high-level (CEU-worthy!) knowledge.

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2024 IIDA Winter Chapter Leadership Council. Photograpy by Elliot Mandel
2024 IIDA Winter Chapter Leadership Council. Photograpy by Elliot Mandel
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2024 IIDA Winter Chapter Leadership Council. Photograpy by Elliot Mandel
2024 IIDA Winter Chapter Leadership Council. Photograpy by Elliot Mandel

"It's truly inspiring to see our Chapter Leaders come together at IIDA HQ, diving into the big issues our chapters face. Their passion for interior design and commitment to helping our members grow really stand out during their active involvement all weekend,” said Cody Czmyr, Director of Member Services at IIDA. “The future truly looks bright, knowing that IIDA chapters are in the capable hands of these dedicated, talented leaders.”

The 2024 Winter CLC didn't just meet expectations; it soared beyond, setting a high bar for what it means to contribute to the IIDA community and interior design at large. With the trail blazed by this year's leaders, the path is clear for an even more exciting, enriching, and community-driven future.

Mark your calendars for the upcoming Spring CLC event, where fresh perspectives meet blooming opportunities in a fusion of creativity and leadership poised to redefine the design landscape!

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