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 SDA National President, Kim Celenza, 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 joined SDA as a Canstruct-a-Member 11 years ago. While working at Perkins Eastman, I walked into Peggy McGrath’s office and asked for an espresso machine for our floor. All the other floors had one. She replied with, “Sure, I’ll get the espresso machine for marketing if you join SDA and co-chair the marketing committee.” One long story-short and a roller coaster (in the best way of course) journey later…

As a marketing professional for the bulk of my career, before my membership expired, I had been going back and forth between continuing my membership with SDA or becoming a member of SMPS. What drew me into SDA was its all-inclusive nature.

How has your experience with SDA changed over time?

I believe you should never stop learning or growing in your career, and I appreciate the broad base of knowledge I have and continue to acquire as part of my SDA experience. It has helped me grow in my career since joining, it was also my “village” when I found myself unemployed for the first time in over a decade. After serving the past four years on ExCom amongst some of the most brilliant and inspiring humans I have ever met, I am now serving my term as National President, trying to give back to an organization that has given me so much. This organization inspires me; it empowers me.

What aspects of SDA have you enjoyed the most?

The connection, the comradery, the learning, and doing better. Being better, better professionals and better humans. The beautiful friendships and mentorship connections.

What motivates you to stay engaged or involved with SDA?

The feeling of unity, we are each other’s village. We are here FOR each other. SDA as an organization is bigger than our chapters, it is bigger than us as individuals. It is a deep well of knowledge and expertise in a very niche field.

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

Stepping into my first EDSymposium in Salt Lake City back in 2018, during my first term as New York Chapter President, I honestly did not know what to expect. The New York Chapter to my knowledge always felt like it operated on an island- literally and figuratively. However, upon arriving that first evening, any negative expectations or concerns quickly became moot. What I walked into was an incredibly warm and welcoming group of members from all over the country just waiting up for “New York” to get there. By the time I left and returned to NY I had not only gained knowledge that I did not have before but created bonds of mentorship and friendship that have stayed with me through the years. I also no longer felt like we were on an island, and from that day on, I made it my priority to dismantle that invisible silo, and instead build and reinforce a bridge.

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!

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 Lisa Syfrett, CDFA, who 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 joined SDA in January 2002 when my boss recommended that I join an association. I did not know what that meant but he knew of SDA and specifically recommended I join.

How has your experience with SDA changed over time?

I have watched so many incredible people really shine and climb the ladder within their firms and the industry giving me more confidence and encouragement to pave my own path within my firm and my career.

What aspects of SDA have you enjoyed the most?

I have enjoyed the friendships that I have made and what I would call my “tribe” who supports me with every new step in my job. I never feel like I am alone without a support system who is ready to help me figure things out.

What motivates you to stay engaged or involved with SDA?

I want other young people coming into the industry to know there is an organization of incredibly smart individuals that will help them. SDA has always been a place of zero judgement which helps when you are green and have no idea what you are doing.

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

I have a million memories of SDA, but my #1 experience is attending my first SDA Conference in Charlotte, NC. I had two young sons at home, and it was the first time I had ever left them or gone on any kind of work trip. I only knew people from my Chapter and was homesick, worried about my children, but so many people surrounded me to make sure I was okay and to immerse me into the experience. These people are lifelong friends who continue to support me and help me learn as I grow.

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!