February e-blast

In This Issue

2015 Partners

February is a month to look towards our future designers as we host events for Student Design Days throughout our Chapter. Don't worry, these events aren't just for students, see below for information on what's happening near you.

Time is running out to reserve a room at our discounted rate for the Annual meeting in Charleston, SC March 6th. See below for details.

Anyone seeking a job, remember to check our website. We regularly post job openings as we hear about them. If you have a job opening to post, send it to [email protected]

My IIDA Story

Elisa Aucoin, IIDA

IIDA Carolinas Chapter VP of City Centers

My IIDA story began 4 years ago when the Upstate's student design days event kicked off at Young Office Environments with a Q&A and tour off the office. That day I spontaneously led one of the students groups around the office and was able to see their appreciation of what the professionals had planned for them through IIDA. My small involvement that afternoon inspired me to apply for a membership and volunteer on the Upstate's steering committee. Not only was I able to connect with more designers and industry professionals, but my steering committee role played a big part in my preparation for the NCIDQ.

Once I completed my two working years after graduation, I was excited to sit for the NCIDQ (well, excited to get it over with - no one is excited to take that test) until I learned that prep classes were dwindling and none were being offered in South Carolina. I was very discouraged that I would have to do all the studying on my own, but through the Upstate City Center Director at the time, I learned that the IIDA chapter in Georgia was hosting a prep class and that they offered to videoconference the classes so that we could participate hours away in South Carolina. I am forever grateful for the resources that IIDA pulled together, across two chapters, not only to elevate the profession, but my own personal career by offering the resources I needed to pass the NCIDQ.

I have enjoyed continuing to grow professionally with the chapter in the four short years that I have been a part of it. After my time on the steering committee, I took on the role of City Center Director for the Upstate followed by my current position as VP of City Centers. Through the Carolinas Chapter I have had the unique opportunity to connect with professionals and students far beyond my immediate community. I look forward to continuing to grow professionally with the resources and opportunities offered by IIDA and the Carolinas Chapter in the future.

Register Now to attend the

IIDA Carolinas Chapter Annual Meeting

On Friday, March 6th the IIDA Carolinas Chapter will host its very own "Atelier", focusing on Industry related workshops to help enrich our careers. The day of workshops will be held at the Wild Dunes Resort located on the beautiful Isle of Palms, SC. The day will conclude with a lively dinner cruise, "Sunset Soiree" for not only networking but also to enjoy the sights of Charleston's harbor. It is expected that most attendees will extend their stay at the resort as well.

Wild Dunes has extended the registration deadline to get a room at our discounted rate until this Friday, February 13th.

Click Here to Register to Attend

Want to network outside your office, meet a fantastic group of individuals who work across the Carolinas, and contribute to the local design community?

The Upstate City Center is seeking a City Center Director:

We are currently searching for industry and design professionals who are IIDA members and are looking to become more involved with the Carolinas Chapter of IIDA on a local level. Our City Center Directors, with the help and backing of a seasoned steering committee, plan local monthly events for IIDA members as well as non-members. Events range from continuing education, to philanthropic, to social and networking gatherings throughout the course of the year. Our City Center Directors are also voting members of our Board of Directors and play a big role in shaping the direction of the Carolinas Chapter and the design community in the Carolinas. Being a City Center Director provides a multitude of networking and professional growth potential during and after a term. There is an immediate need to fill the Update City Center Director position. Contact our President Elect, Scott MacMeekin, at s[email protected] if you are interested in learning more about this opportunity.

February's Hashtag of the month #iidaCarolinasDesignDays

Use this hashtag to share photos from IIDA events this month.