Attending EdSymposium26 in Atlanta, Georgia was a meaningful milestone in my career, made even more memorable by the opportunity to receive the 2026 Past Presidents Professional Development Grant on behalf of SDA and the Past Presidents Council. I submitted my application quietly, hopeful but uncertain, and was honored to learn that I had been selected. Sharing the news with my office made the experience even more special and marked an exciting step forward in my professional journey.

As part of that journey, I also applied to be a Spark presenter, with the goal of sharing the knowledge and experience I've gained at my office with a national audience. Over the past year and a half, I have been intentionally developing my public speaking skills, and this opportunity allowed me to put that growth into practice in a meaningful way.

Preparing for the conference was both energizing and rewarding. I connected with my local San Antonio chapter and had the opportunity to rehearse my Spark presentation with fellow members and friends whose encouragement and insight were invaluable throughout the process. It was equally meaningful to share what I had learned with associates in my office, reinforcing my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

It was incredibly fulfilling to share what Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) and the SDA San Antonio Chapter have taught me about being a strong, effective administrator within our industry. The culture of knowledge-sharing and the support I have received have shaped my development and strengthened my determination to continue my path.

The conference sessions were both insightful and thought-provoking. Simon Goodhead's presentation on Strengthening the Business Behind Design and Skot Waldron's session on Leading Organizations Through Influence encouraged deeper reflection on leadership and purpose. Their perspectives prompted me to ask important questions: What kind of leader am I becoming, and what kind of impact do I hope to make? The professional development exercises were especially powerful, providing space to engage honestly with challenges, identify barriers, and articulate both aspirations and fears. Hearing how seasoned professionals approach their work was inspiring and reaffirmed that growth often begins with reflection, resilience, and a willingness to embrace discomfort during the development process.

Traveling with members of my local chapter added another meaningful insight into the experience. It gave me the opportunity to build stronger relationships and gain a deeper understanding of the individuals I learn and grow alongside. The conference setting itself was beautiful, and each day offered memorable opportunities for connection—from shared sessions to dinners with our chapter and fellow SDA members from across the country.

Throughout the experience, I was reminded of how fortunate we are to work in a field that supports both professional development and personal growth. This conference broadened my perspective, deepened my sense of community within SDA, and strengthened my commitment to continued growth and purposeful leadership. It also gave me the opportunity to reflect on how far I have come and to appreciate the direction I am heading. I am proud of the leader I am becoming and approach my professional development with intention, guided by curiosity, resilience, and a focus on continuous growth.

Sabrina De La Rosa works as an Administrative Associate II at WJE in San Antonio, Texas. As a first time attendee to EDS this year Sabrina not only was a PPC grant recipient but also presented as one SDA SPARK speakers at the conference this year.