Rounding out our 2025 National Executive Committee spotlight series is Kim Celenza, Past President of SDA and Marketing Manager at JFK&M Consulting Group in New York. A longtime leader and advocate for SDA, Kim brings a wealth of experience, a sharp strategic eye, and a deep passion for the profession. As Past President, she continues to play an essential role in mentoring leadership, guiding big-picture strategy, and championing the growth of SDA across the A/E/C industry.d reinforcing our reputation as the go-to resource for best practices in the A/E/C industry.

Serving as SDA’s National President was both an honor and a responsibility I embraced with dedication. I’m proud of the progress we made together—advancing key initiatives, strengthening our member value, and reinforcing SDA’s role as the voice for business operations professionals in the A/E/C industry.

Now, as Past President, I remain committed to supporting the organization’s continued success. I look forward to mentoring new leaders, offering historical perspective when helpful, and contributing to strategic conversations that shape our future. It’s an exciting time for SDA, and I’m confident the path forward is bright.

Kim’s passion for growth and excellence continues to shape SDA’s future. Her commitment to clarity, collaboration, and high standards sets a powerful tone for our organization. Inspired by her vision? Help us grow the SDA network—talk about it, share what it’s done for you, and bring a colleague into the fold. Together, we can build something even stronger.

Continuing our National Executive Committee spotlight series, meet Jennifer Greene, Associate AIA, SDA’s National Secretary and Director of Marketing at Ronnette Riley Architect in New York. With a passion for education, ethics, and elevating the role of design firm administrators, Jennifer brings thoughtful leadership and a future-focused mindset to the SDA table. Her commitment to strengthening our professional community is clear—and contagious.

My vision for the future of the SDA focuses on growth, excellence, and strengthening our professional community.

One of our core values is educating members in the disciplines that support design firm administration. I want to enhance and expand opportunities for professional development—through workshops, seminars, webinars—and encourage members to pursue certification as a way to invest in their careers.

I’ll continue working closely with ExCom to implement strategies that attract new members and retain existing ones by offering meaningful benefits: networking opportunities, access to resources, mentorship programs, and career support. I’m committed to fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration across the U.S. and Canada.

I will uphold and promote high ethical standards, encouraging a culture of integrity, transparency, and accountability. I’ll support members in navigating ethical challenges, resolving conflicts, and maintaining professionalism in our field.

Ultimately, I want to reinforce our organization’s position as a dynamic, forward-thinking leader in the industry—one that empowers design administrators to grow and thrive in a changing landscape. I’m committed to driving positive change and helping shape the future of our organization.

Jennifer’s dedication to growth, ethics, and professional excellence is helping shape a stronger future for SDA. Her focus on opportunity and integrity is a reminder of what makes our community powerful. Want to help make that vision a reality? Jump in—whether by pursuing certification, mentoring a colleague, or simply sharing your experience. Let’s keep building this network of support, together.

We’re kicking off our new blog series with a spotlight on the dynamic leaders guiding SDA into its next chapter. First up: Gretchen Renz, FSDA, Managing Director, Operations and Finance at Bernardo Wills in Spokane, WA,  and SDA’s new National President. With a clear vision for SDA’s future and a commitment to innovation, growth, and member engagement, Gretchen is ready to lead us through a pivotal time in our organization’s evolution. Here's a look at her priorities and plans for the year ahead.

The SDA is at a critical juncture and must evolve to stay relevant in the A/E/C industry. I envision a flexible, forward-thinking, and professional development–focused organization. Over the next five years, I have identified three priorities:

1. Strengthen Value Proposition – Clearly communicate the benefits of membership and improve access to resources and support, regardless of chapter status.
2. Modernize Structure – Consider regional models, virtual engagement, and streamlined leadership to make participation easier.
3. Prepare for Leadership Transition – Develop a succession plan as the executive director nears retirement, ensuring a smooth and strategic leadership change.

I am committed to promoting open dialogue, supporting volunteers, and fostering collaboration to guide the SDA through change and into a thriving future.

I plan to focus on the following key areas during my term:

• Member Engagement & Leadership Development: Create more flexible ways for members to get involved, including short-term volunteer roles and leadership pathways with less long-term commitment.
• Structural Innovation: Reevaluate the chapter model and explore alternative engagement strategies, such as regional or interest-based networks.
• Professional Growth & Investment: Position the organization as the premier resource for A/E/C business operations professionals, emphasizing career development over traditional networking.
• Leadership Succession Planning: Begin developing a transparent and strategic plan to ensure a smooth future transition when the executive director eventually retires.

My goal for the term is to ensure members feel energized and confident in the SDA’s future, knowing it's adapting to better serve their needs.

Gretchen’s leadership marks the start of an exciting new chapter for SDA—one focused on innovation, connection, and bold forward movement. If her vision sparks something in you, jump in! Whether it’s volunteering in a small way, offering your ideas, or joining the conversation in the SDA Discussion Hub, there’s a place for you to make an impact. Let’s build the future of SDA—together.