Message from the President
What an amazing chapter! This is a chapter of legacy, depth, and growth. ASID Carolinas is one of the founding ASID chapters with a 50-year history, and I am honored to guide the chapter in our 51st year!
As I look back at my ASID journey, I reflect on my why. Why ASID? Because this is the place that has always been my support, my encouragement, and my growth. I started as a shy, introverted Student Rep to the Board, but the best thing I did for my career was to show up (even if I was too scared to talk to anyone). This led to being on the Board in the Virginia Chapter, being a Ones to Watch Scholar, and then being on the Board in the Carolinas Chapter.
What can you do to get the most value out of your membership? Show up. Our Design Communities are going to be putting on fun events that are full of connection, and I encourage you to attend. We will be putting on Student Career Day at the end of February in Charlotte, and I encourage you to support our students. We will have the Fall Conference in Spartanburg, SC, at the end of September with a variety of events and celebrations!
We are starting an Emerging Professional network. If you are 1-5 years out of school, it’s time to get connected. They will be having specific events and programming just for Emerging Professionals.
A Mentorship Program will be started this year, where we will connect a student or emerging professional with a mid-careerist and a legacy designer. This three-way mentorship program will provide insight and friendship across the chapter.
We will be starting a new chapter-wide fundraiser called Spruce Up next year, where we will ask you to donate a 1-hour design consultation that could be residential, small commercial, or aging-in-place.
A new Sponsorship program will be announced soon. This will focus on a customized approach and will make sure our sponsors get the most out of their sponsorship.
How can you be a part of our chapter?
We are looking for volunteers for the following Chair positions. Email me if you are interested in learning more.
Fall Conference Chair – Lead a committee to plan and implement a 2-Day Conference with tours, networking, and CEUs.
Student Career Day Chair – Lead a committee to plan and implement a fabulous day to support our students through a variety of programming.
Mentorship Chair – Create and implement a mentorship program
Fundraiser Chair – Implement our new Chapter-wide fundraiser, Spruce Up!
Lowcountry SC Design Community Co-Chair – Looking for someone who lives in the Charleston area to help plan local events
Coastal SC Design Community Co-Chair - Looking for someone who lives in the Morehead City or Outer Banks area to help plan local events
We are also looking for Professional Liaisons for the following schools to support design students:
Salem College
Bob Jones University
If you would like to be involved in a small way, please reach out to me, and we will find a way to support you.
I’m looking forward to an amazing year and supporting you! Be on the lookout for more updates and announcements throughout the year!
With Gratitude,
Kelsey Kees