Central Coast & Valleys Chapter described 2013 as simply “stellar”. They launched a new website, hosted their first trade show – a huge success – and set a record for recruitment of new corporate and individual members. The chapter partnered with other design-related associations to share events in their newly crafted newsletter. Texas Gulf Coast Chapter had a busy year. Members attended a meeting at a wine bar where the speaker – who designed the space – spoke on the topic of commercial design. The chapter’s VP of Academic Relations organized a bus tour of member showrooms for students from the local NKBA accredited college; a great way to make connections with the next generation of design professionals! The year was capped off with an impressive 20% increase in membership. Prairie Chapter members arrived in style for their Red Carpet Gala. Shown are (back row, left to right) Aaron Woods, Tony Savinkoff, Jeff Ott, Sean Woods, (front row) Nadine Hawkins, Jaimy Beaudoin, Susanne Taylor, Tammi Dowd, Sandie McGhee, Brenda Bittner
In October, the Prairie Chapter showcased their western hospitality as they hosted their first annual Red Carpet Gala. The event’s silent auction raised over $3,000 with all proceeds going to Habitat for Humanity, Southern Alberta. The keynote speaker was 2013 NKBA president, John Morgan. Following dinner, the winners of the Cambria Design Awards were announced. The evening wrapped up with music, dancing and cocktails.
This collage captures some of the fun had during Ontario Chapter’s Gilligan’s Island boat cruise, which included dinner and dancing. Members got into the spirit, dressing up as the Skipper, Mary Ann, Ginger and other characters from this classic TV series.
It was anchors away for the Ontario Chapter in 2013. The chapter organized a boat cruise, complete with dinner and dancing. The event had a “Gilligan’s Island” theme, and members dressed the part. Members paid only a nominal fee to attend, with the chapter covering the majority of the costs as a way to give back. Many brought along potential new members as guests.
West Michigan Chapter used some star power to attract a record turnout for their fall meeting. Michigan resident Tyler Devereaux was the guest speaker. He shared his HGTV Star experience. Those who attended say Tyler inspired both veteran and new designers to focus on their passion for design! Virginia State Chapter clearly has some great talent. In 2013 they boasted not one, but two members in the NKBA’s 30 Under 30. The chapter was thrilled to see members Ebony Stephenson and Jessica Whitbeck Altman chosen for this national award!
The Susquehanna Valley Chapter made events and education a priority in 2013. Shown here are the Chapter’s incoming President Elizabeth Marcocci, Becky Ward and current President, Pat Caulfield.
The Susquehanna Valley Chapter spent 2013 creating exciting events such as a trip to GE Monogram in the Architects & Designers Building in NYC, and a joint meeting with the Mid Atlantic Chapter at Fretz in Philadelphia. Members raised funds for Phoenix Assistance Dogs. They also hosted interesting and educational events at fabulous locations including the Lancaster Arts Hotel, Grothouse Lumber, Ai, The Art Institute, Hajoca, Conestoga Tile, and Fromm Electric.
Continued on page 18 16 | NKBA.org | KBIS 2014