As we conclude our Administrative Professionals Month celebration, SDA is reflecting on the professionals who keep A/E/C firms running—those who bring clarity, connection, and consistency to their organizations every day.

Throughout the month, we’ve shared stories of growth, connection, and leadership across our community.

This week, we’re sharing a perspective on how meaningful connections can support your growth, strengthen your confidence, and remind you that you’re not navigating this work alone by Susan Lankey, CDFA, Business Manager for DJG, Inc., in Williamsburg, VA.

One of the most powerful parts of being involved in SDA is the sense of connection that comes with it. Early in my involvement with SDA, I quickly realized that I had found more than just a professional organization—I had found a community of people who genuinely understand the challenges and opportunities that come with working in the A/E/C industry.

Attending SDA conferences has been one of the most impactful parts of my journey. Being able to connect in person with professionals from firms across the United States and Canada has opened the door to conversations that simply wouldn’t happen otherwise. Whether it’s discussing operational challenges, sharing best practices, or brainstorming solutions to issues within our firms, these connections have created a network of peers I can reach out to anytime. It’s incredibly reassuring to know that when a challenge arises, there is a group of knowledgeable professionals willing to share their experience and perspective.

Beyond the conferences, serving within SDA has also been a meaningful part of my professional growth. My time serving on our local chapter board, participating on national committees, and working alongside fellow leaders on EXCOM really pushed me to grow in ways I never expected. Each opportunity has helped me build confidence, strengthen my leadership skills, and develop a broader understanding of the industry.

What makes SDA so special is that these experiences don’t just stay within the organization—they carry back into our daily work. The lessons learned, the ideas shared, and the encouragement from peers all contribute to how we grow within our firms and how we support our teams.

For me, SDA has been a reminder that professional growth doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens through shared experiences, open conversations, and the willingness to learn from one another. The connections I’ve built through SDA continue to support and inspire me, and they are a big part of why I’m able to keep moving forward in my career.

Throughout this month, we’ve seen how growth, connection, and leadership come to life across our community—each one a reminder that wherever you are, SDA helps you go further.

If Susan’s story resonates with you, we invite you to continue the conversation:

• Leave a comment below and share one connection or conversation that has helped you grow in your role
• Explore upcoming SDA programs
• Connect with peers who understand your role through the SDA Discussion Hub
• Learn more about becoming an SDA member

Wherever you are in your career, SDA helps you go further—and sometimes the right connection makes all the difference.

Explore, connect, and see how SDA can support your success.

In our continuing series introducing SDA’s 2025 National Executive Committee, we’re excited to spotlight Vincent Lafitte, CDFA, HR Analyst and Senior Associate at SSOE Group in Atlanta, GA, and SDA’s newly elected President Elect. With two decades of HR leadership experience and a deep commitment to SDA’s mission, Vincent brings thoughtful perspective, strategic insight, and a collaborative mindset to his role. His focus? Re-centering SDA around its core strength: the business of running a design firm—and doing it well.

As President Elect, I believe it’s time for the SDA to return to its roots—our strength lies in the interwoven elements that drive excellence in managing a design firm. That’s where we excel, and I see the next 1–5 years as a time to refocus on that core mission.

I’ve been actively involved in our organization since 2014 and haven’t looked back. With 20 years of experience in Human Resources and a background in both large and small firms, I’m skilled at bringing together diverse perspectives and translating them into a unified, strategic path forward.

While the President Elect is often seen as the President’s right hand, I believe the role is more dynamic than that. It’s about stepping back to see the bigger picture, challenging ideas when necessary, and knowing when to help pull back so we maintain balance. I look forward to engaging in thoughtful, healthy discourse throughout the year.

For me, collaboration and communication are all about using the right tools—and using them well. I’ve learned a great deal from my time in the SDA, and I’m excited to help move us toward meaningful, healthy goals.

Ultimately, the President Elect role is about learning, growing, and preparing to lead. Much like in HR, it starts with listening and observing. I’m ready for the challenge and look forward to what this coming term will bring.

Vincent’s vision for SDA is grounded, practical, and refreshingly real. His focus on strategic clarity, communication, and collaboration sets a strong tone for the year ahead. If his message resonates with you, we invite you to lean in—share your insights, get involved, or join the conversation in the SDA Discussion Hub. It’s going to be a great year to listen, learn, and lead together.