Every SDA member has a unique story - one that reflects their journey, growth, and connection to our vibrant community. In our new blog series, SDA & Me, we’re highlighting the voices of our members as they share what brought them to SDA, how their experience has evolved, and the moments that have made the biggest impact. Whether it’s professional development, lasting friendships, or unforgettable experiences, these testimonials showcase the value of being part of SDA. Today, we feature Stephanie Kirschner, FSDA, as she shares her SDA journey and what keeps her engaged in our community.

When did you join SDA and what initially motivated you to join?

I became a member of SDA in 1986. I was new to the AE industry, working for a very small landscape architecture firm at the time. I had attended a seminar on a Saturday presented by the Society of Architectural Administrators (SAA) Columbus Chapter called “The Architectural Secretary – A Training Seminar.” It was a full day of programming on how a project evolves, items specific to a design firm, dealing with various people (clients, consultants, product reps, vendors, etc.), and then a session of Personal Development/Career Professionalism. I was hooked and sad to learn there was not a chapter in my area. So, I worked with a few others from Cincinnati, and we decided to form a chapter, and I became one of the co-founders of the Cincinnati Chapter. I couldn’t be an officer since I didn’t work for an architectural firm, but that didn’t matter. I was just thrilled to have a network of peers that did the same thing I did and understood this crazy AE industry.

How has your experience with SDA changed over time?

I have seen many changes since becoming a member, including name changes (SAA to SDA – Society of Design Administration to then Society for Design Administration). We have grown from focusing on architectural firms to reaching engineering firms and others in the AEC space. I grew by serving as a Chapter officer in many roles, to serving on National Committees, then serving on the SDA National Executive Committee and ultimately serving as SDA National President in 2009. Each time I took on a new role, I learned  new career skills that helped me in my daily role which gave me the career growth I had been seeking. I went from being a receptionist in a 7-person landscape architectural firm, to becoming a Staff Accountant, Accounting Manager, Director of Administration and ultimately, the CFO and a partner in a 100-person multi-disciplined firm (Engineering/Architecture/Surveying/Landscape Architecture/Planning services). I left the industry in 2010 due to the economic recession, and found myself missing the AEC industry. In late 2012, the opportunity to become the SDA National Executive Director was offered to me, and I was thrilled to accept that position, one I continue to enjoy and learn from to this day. In 2020, I applied and was named a Fellow, joining the ranks of many respected SDA members. The journey to Fellow is not something that happens overnight, but every step I took to advance my career, and my SDA experience led me to that accomplishment. I encourage everyone to start today on their journey to accomplishing that as well.

What aspects of SDA have you enjoyed the most?

Like most people, the connections to SO many members across the country is invaluable. Not only for the knowledge, but for the genuine friendships that have developed over the years. I appreciate the information that is given to us specific to the AEC industry, something you can’t just Google.

What motivates you to stay engaged or involved with SDA?

There are so many opportunities to develop your professional career while being a member and volunteering through SDA. One of the things I realized is that I could take my career beyond my wildest imagination because I had a network of colleagues doing big things in the industry. These were role models for me as I gained more experience. When things were hard and I was thinking about leaving the AE industry, talking to others made me realize that it wasn’t just me, that some of the issues were happening in other firms and I wasn’t crazy or dumb. It gave me the courage and resolve to learn more and push for change in my firm because I could come armed with information.

Can you describe a memorable experience you’ve had as an SDA member?

There are plenty of memories when you’ve been a member as long as I have. I remember the first convention (now known as EDSymposium) I attended in Philadelphia. I attended the annual meeting where there was a proposed bylaw to change our name from Society of Design Administration to Society for Design Administration. It was my first opportunity to see Roberts Rules of Order in live, real-time action. I had been through many meetings and understood the basics, but these members where SERIOUS about the process. I came to understand how important governing documents are and why words matter, something I remind our chapters and board members about frequently. When we don’t know whether we can do something or not, the answer is always “what do your bylaws and/or standing rules say?”

There are plenty of fun experiences that have occurred during the many SDA conferences I have attended over the years. From day trips to see a new area of the country, to long conversations over cocktails after a day of long educational programs, I always come away energized by SDA members and want to do more. I wish I could tell every firm owner how much our SDA members care and are concerned for their firms. If they did, every firm would have at least one SDA member as a staff member.

Want to share your SDA story? Each member’s journey is unique, and we’d love to hear yours! If SDA has made an impact on your career and connections, reach out to us (admin@sdanational.org) to be featured in a future SDA & Me spotlight. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from our amazing members!