SDA began the SDA Fellows initiative in 2018 to recognize the value of individual contributions to SDA, peer organizations, and the A/E/C community in the area of excellence in design firm management. The program also seeks to encourage individuals to further their studies, share their knowledge, and elevate practice management standards in the A/E/C industry overall.  

Becoming an SDA Fellow is a rigorous process, involving comprehensive essays and securing three recommendation letters highlighting the applicant’s leadership, mentorship, and impact on the A/E/C industry. Once selected, an SDA Fellow, denoted as FSDA, commits to inspiring the next generation through tailored opportunities, promoting SDA's mission, advancing practice management, and mentoring young members.

The application window for candidates wanting to apply to be named a Fellow opens on October 1 and remains open until October 31.  The application, guidelines, and additional information are available on the SDA website at https://www.sdanational.org/page/Fellows. 

Today, there are eleven SDA Fellows: Judy Beebe, Debra Ellis, Deborah Gill, Liz Harris, Sabrina Heard, Stephanie Kirschner, Amy Nanni, Betsy Nickless, Gretchen Renz, Karen Roman, and Sarah Wallace. Though not an SDA committee, the Fellows elect a Chair each year and meet monthly to discuss how to focus their collective action for the betterment of the organization and its members. 

Path2Success: Your Personal Journey to Growth

In 2021, the Fellows unveiled a groundbreaking leadership initiative, “Path2Success.” This program, inspired by contemporary business literature, aims to nurture career growth, enhance personal development, and mold future SDA and business leaders. Our Fall Path2Success program is currently underway and was designed to not only help you prepare for the CDFO exam, but also develop leadership skills and move your career forward. 

Your Invitation to Shape Your Future

Whether you're considering the Fellowship application, exploring the Path2Success program, or are interested in the new Certificate in Design Firm Operation credential, take this opportunity to delve into something truly transformative. Download the Fellows application to assess your progress and identify areas for growth. The effort you invest in fulfilling the Fellowship requirements not only elevates your career but also provides clear, tangible goals to strive for. Seize this chance to shape a future filled with excellence, both professionally and personally. Let's embark on this journey together!  We recommend that you begin to review the process at the beginning of the year and not wait until when the application process opens in the Fall.

Leadership is about growth—mainly your own inner growth—and is a continuous process.  There are few born leaders.  Leadership is an acquired skill.

We look forward to have you join us as a Fellow in SDA in the future!