Exemplary leadership and service define Fran Carrillo’s contributions to the Society for Design Administration (SDA). As Operations Manager at MIG, Inc. in San Diego, Fran has long been recognized for her organizational insight and steady guidance. This year, her dedication earned national recognition with the GEM Award, honoring SDA members who serve as “Guiding Examples to our Members” through their significant contributions to the organization and its mission.

When Fran stepped into the role of Co-Chair of SDA’s Marketing and Communications (MarCom) Committee, she brought a collaborative energy that elevated the organization’s visibility and engagement across multiple platforms. The MarCom Committee oversees SDA’s marketing, public relations, social media, and publications—areas that reflect how SDA connects, informs, and celebrates its members. Through her leadership, Fran helped strengthen SDA’s brand voice and ensured that communications reflected the professionalism and spirit of the AEC community.

The GEM Award celebrates members whose service and influence shine throughout the SDA network, and Fran’s impact certainly fits that description. She first served as MarCom Co-Chair from 2020 to 2022, guiding the committee through a time when digital communication became more vital than ever. Returning to the role again for 2024 to 2025, Fran has continued to foster creative collaboration and consistency in how SDA presents itself to current and prospective members. Her ability to balance strategic vision with hands-on support exemplifies the type of leadership that strengthens the organization from within.

Fran’s professional journey at MIG, Inc. further reflects her commitment to excellence and teamwork. As Operations Manager, she supports a multidisciplinary design and planning firm known for its community-centered projects. Her dual perspective—rooted in both business operations and design collaboration—aligns perfectly with SDA’s mission to empower the professionals who keep AEC firms running smoothly and effectively. Within both her firm and SDA, Fran models the kind of leadership that values communication, mentorship, and shared success.

Her long-standing involvement in SDA highlights the power of professional engagement. Since joining the organization in 2017, Fran has contributed her time and expertise to advancing SDA’s visibility and resources for members. Under her guidance, the MarCom Committee’s initiatives have supported national campaigns, chapter outreach, and publications that spotlight member achievements—strengthening the bridge between local chapters and the national community.

Beyond her committee work, Fran’s influence extends through the connections she builds. Her approach demonstrates that effective communication is not only about messaging—it’s about meaning. She continues to inspire members by showing how thoughtful collaboration and steady commitment can create lasting value within professional organizations like SDA.

SDA National proudly congratulates Fran Carrillo on receiving the GEM Award. Her leadership, dedication, and enthusiasm exemplify what it means to serve as a guiding example for others. Through her efforts, SDA’s message of empowerment and professional excellence reaches farther and resonates deeper—reminding us all that the strength of our community lies in members like her.

Hey, SDA Trailblazers!

We are thrilled to announce the formation of the SDA Innovation in Education Committee (IEC). In conjunction with our national chapters, this committee represents SDA’s commitment to stepping up our learning tools and furthering the professional growth of design firm personnel across the United States and Canada.

Guided by our Committee Leader, Brittany Jamison, CDFA ,and committee members Anne McNeely, CDFA; Penny Nelson, CDFA; Deborah Gill, CPA, FSDA; Emily Moline Meyer, CDFA; and Kimberly Celenza, the IEC will craft enriching content to launch in April. These individuals bring their unique skills and experiences to the committee, contributing to the diversity and richness of the resources provided. Together, they will work towards creating a robust reference system that enables SDA members to navigate challenges and achieve excellence within the A/E/C industry. We aim to provide A|E|C specific education, best management practices, and training on professional standards.

Using the CDFA (Certification in Design Firm Administration) Resource Guide as the stepping-off platform, the IEC will concentrate its efforts on the six focus areas essential for the success and advancement of best practices in design firm management: finance, human resources, marketing, project management, office administration, and leadership and actively curate additional resources for each one.

This concentrated effort ensures SDA members access to a wealth of information and tools to excel in their respective roles, including blogs, white papers, book and article references, infographics, webinars, and other relevant information.

We invite you to join the committee or share any information, resources, or concepts you want to see covered by the IEC. Contact Brittany Jamison (bcharlick@cross2dg.com) and she will be happy to give you all the information you need. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we dive deep into continuing education, best management practices, and training on professional standards. Your growth matters to us, and we’re impressed with your work, participation, and engagement!

#ABL – AlwaysBeLearning
Innovation in Education Committee