IALD Hosts Open House Following Board Meeting
The International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) brought its leadership directly to the New York lighting community Sunday evening with a new “Meet the Board” open house. The event was held at the Acuity Brand’s showroom. It followed a full day of board meetings and drew approximately 60 to 70 attendees.
The gathering marked the first event of its kind for the organization—and it set a tone of accessibility, transparency, and engagement.
A President’s Initiative
The open house was the brainchild of Carla Wilkins, of Lichtvision Design. She began her two-year term as IALD President in January. She brings a distinctly global perspective to the role. Her career spans New York, Cologne, and Berlin.
Her goal for the evening was straightforward: connect.
Carla explained that she wanted to meet the New York lighting community face-to-face and gain a deeper understanding of members’ needs and ambitions. Instead of relying solely on formal channels, the event created space for candid conversations between leadership and practitioners.
That approach reflects a broader philosophy she emphasized throughout the evening. She argued that IALD leadership must remain close to its membership. As she explained, the organization is not there to “sit on the mountain and lecture,” but to actively listen to its global community.
Momentum from the Boardroom
The open house came immediately after what Carla described as a “very fruitful board meeting with very good discussion.” She explained the board is actively sharpening the future direction of the organization. In addition, there is a strong focus on how to better serve members.
That alignment between governance and community engagement was evident throughout the evening. Conversations flowed easily, and the informal setting allowed attendees to engage directly with board members.
Jill Cody of Dark Light Design summed up the atmosphere: “The vibe was amazing and always great to reconnect with the IALD community.”
Looking Ahead to Paris
A key topic of discussion was Enlighten Europe 2026, scheduled for 17–19 June in Paris. Carla described the upcoming conference as an inspiring opportunity to connect with the European lighting community. Also, she noted it is a chance to explore the city.
The event will include collaboration with the French lighting association, Association des Concepteurs Lumière et Éclairagistes (ACE), which is preparing a map of notable lighting projects from its members. Carla hinted at an additional surprise element for the conference. However, she kept details under wraps.
Strengthening Global Collaboration
Beyond events, Carla outlined key priorities for her presidency. One important goal is increasing collaboration between IALD and the Lighting Industry Resource Council, (LIRC). Additionally, she wants to elevate awareness of the organization’s education platform, LERN.
Operating as a global organization with a staff of just six presents challenges, she acknowledged. At the same time, she praised the professionalism and dedication of the team supporting IALD’s mission.
A Strong First Step
For a first-time initiative, the open house delivered. Attendance was solid, engagement was high, and the message was clear: IALD leadership is making a deliberate effort to stay connected with its members.
For your humble editor, the evening reinforced something important about the organization’s direction. The strategy is not just about programs or conferences—it is about listening. And if this first open house is any indication, IALD is serious about hearing from the people it represents.
Go Deeper. Registration Opens for IALD Enlighten Europe 2026 in Paris