NALMCO Annual Meeting Celebrates Growth, Mentorship, and Ron Hughes’ Lumina Award
At the 72nd Annual NALMCO Convention in Des Moines, the National Association of Lighting Management Companies reaffirmed its commitment to growth, mentorship, and professional excellence. From new leadership reports to heartfelt recognition of long-time service, the tone was one of optimism and gratitude for an industry that continues to evolve while staying grounded in community.
Leadership Reports Highlight Strength and Stability
President Erik Ennen opened the annual business meeting by introducing the 2025 Board of Directors, including Monica Kristo as Treasurer and President-Elect, Brian Baker as Vice President of the Certification Committee, Lisa Orloff as Vice President of Communications, Bill Hurd as Vice President of Membership, and Kevin Heid as Vice President of Programs.
Treasurer Monica Kristo reported that NALMCO remains financially strong and well-positioned for continued growth. “We’ve built our reserves while reinvesting in the association,” she said, citing improvements to certification programs, communications, and participation at key industry events. Kristo encouraged members to request a copy of the audited financials through Executive Director Jessica Thornton.
Expanding Certification and Global Reach
In the certification update, Ennen noted that NALMCO’s reach has expanded internationally, with certified professionals now in Italy, Mexico, and India. He recognized new Certified Lighting Management Consultants (CLMCs) from across North America, praising their dedication to advancing lighting quality and safety standards.
The certification initiative continues to strengthen NALMCO’s position as a global voice for lighting maintenance and energy management professionals.
Communications and Membership: Building the Brand
Lisa Orloff, Vice President of Communications, reported on the continued success of LM&M Magazine, the association’s official publication. The magazine’s conference-exclusive print edition, produced in collaboration with EdisonReport, featured articles and case studies on key topics shaping the lighting industry.
Lisa credited her committee for expanding NALMCO’s digital presence, particularly on LinkedIn. She encouraged members to share posts to help promote the association’s events and content.
Bill Hurd followed with a membership update, announcing an impressive 30 new members across contractor, associate, professional, and educational categories. Hurd highlighted the importance of engagement, explaining that every new member was assigned a mentor. “We don’t want anyone to get lost,” he said. “This is a big organization, and the mentorship program helps new members find their footing and maximize their investment in NALMCO.”
Recognizing Dedication: Ron Hughes Honored with the Lumina Award
A highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the Lumina Award to Ron Hughes, recognizing his exceptional dedication, leadership, and service over more than a decade on the NALMCO Board of Directors.
Presenter Scott Mendelsohn described Hughes as “a steady and reliable presence within our organization—someone who leads not for recognition, but out of genuine care for the industry and the people who make it thrive.” Scott praised Ron’s critical leadership during the COVID-19 era, helping guide NALMCO through uncertain times while strengthening the association’s stability.
In accepting the award, Ron was visibly moved. “I was not expecting this at all,” he said. “It’s been an enriching journey. This organization is an amazing group of people. We’re family.”
The Lumina Award is not given annually, making Ron’s recognition even more meaningful. It honors individuals whose contributions have had a lasting impact on both NALMCO and the broader lighting management community.
Looking Ahead
Program Chair Kevin Heid closed the meeting by thanking sponsors and outlining plans for upcoming events, including the Spring Seminar in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, hosted by Keystone Technologies, and next year’s Annual Convention in Phoenix, Arizona.
Kevin’s remarks reflected the energy of a growing association: “It takes all of us to keep this organization moving forward. The partnerships, the friendships, and the passion in this room are what make NALMCO special.”
Continuing the Mission
The meeting concluded with a sense of momentum—financially sound, globally expanding, and personally connected. From the mentorship program to new certifications, NALMCO’s leadership demonstrated that the organization is not just keeping pace with change but actively shaping the future of lighting management.
For more information about NALMCO and its upcoming events, visit the official website at https://www.nalmco.org.
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