In a packed room at Parsons School of Design, the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Awards brought together the lighting community to celebrate careers defined by impact, innovation, and mentorship. The evening honored a distinguished group of professionals whose work has shaped the industry in meaningful ways—through design, leadership, education, and an enduring commitment to advancing the craft. Each honoree shared not only their accomplishments, but the relationships, risks, and passion that defined their journey. 

Kathy Abernathy – A Legacy of Leadership, Collaboration, and Heart

Introduced by longtime colleague Jason Rainone, Kathy Abernathy’s impact on the lighting industry was defined not just by her design excellence, but by her unwavering commitment to people. From founding her own firm to leading within organizations like IES, NCQLP, and IALD, Kathy built a career rooted in collaboration, mentorship, and a belief that great design is never done alone.

In her acceptance, Kathy reflected on a journey shaped by mentors, teamwork, and a passion that began in theater and evolved into a lifelong calling. She spoke candidly about growth, gratitude, and the importance of lifting others along the way. “The meaning of life is to find your gift,” she said. “The purpose is to give it away.”

Her legacy is not only seen in the projects she’s delivered, but in the countless professionals she’s inspired to grow, lead, and, as she put it, “soar.”

Bob Davis – A Career Defined by Education, Integrity, and Grace

Introduced as both an educator and an “incredible human being,” Bob Davis’s career has shaped the lighting industry through teaching, research, and quiet leadership. From developing curricula at institutions like RPI and the University of Colorado Boulder to expanding access through programs at Tennessee State University, his influence spans generations of lighting professionals.

Beyond academia, Bob’s work at the Lighting Research Center and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory helped bring clarity to emerging technologies, guiding the industry through periods of rapid change. Yet, as his introduction emphasized, it is his integrity, humility, and deep respect for people that define him most.

In his remarks, Bob reflected on a career guided by what he described as “grace”—from early inspirations to lifelong collaborations and mentorship. With gratitude at the forefront, he emphasized the importance of giving back, finding purpose in helping others grow, and continuing to serve the lighting community that shaped him.

Mariana Figueiro – Advancing Light and Health

Mariana Figueiro was recognized for her groundbreaking contributions to lighting research and its impact on human health. Trained as an architect in Brazil, she found her path at the Lighting Research Center, where she built an exceptional academic career with more than 150 peer-reviewed publications and multiple NIH R01 grants.

Now an endowed professor at Mount Sinai, Figueiro has helped bring lighting into the medical mainstream, demonstrating its role in improving sleep, Alzheimer’s care, and overall well-being. Her work has expanded the reach of lighting beyond the industry and into critical health applications.

A respected leader and mentor, she also guided the transition of a research team to Mount Sinai, continuing to push the field forward. In her remarks, she emphasized gratitude, passion, and hard work—values that have defined her remarkable career.

Dan Gelman – Leading with Generosity and a People-First Philosophy

Dan Gelman’s career at Lighting Services Inc. has been defined by a simple but powerful belief: it’s always about the people. Introduced as a leader whose generosity and warmth have touched everyone he meets, Dan has spent more than four decades building not just a company, but a community grounded in trust, relationships, and shared passion.

Rising from the assembly line to leadership, Dan’s journey reflects a deep respect for every part of the business and every person behind it. Under his stewardship, Lighting Services Inc. has thrived as an independent manufacturer, guided by a culture that values connection as much as performance.

In his remarks, Dan reflected on the mentors, colleagues, and experiences that shaped his path—especially the influence of his father, Marvin Gellman. He spoke candidly about gratitude, the joy of meaningful work, and the responsibility to support others, recalling a defining moment during the pandemic when prioritizing his team was never a question. For Dan, success has never been about products alone, but about people—and the lasting impact of putting them first.

Andrea Hartranft – Leadership, Light, and Lasting Impact

Andrea Hartranft was introduced as a leading voice in architectural lighting design whose work has shaped how light is understood and applied within the built environment. As principal at Hartranft Lighting Studios, she is known for combining technical precision with creative vision to elevate lighting as a core element of architecture.

Her career has also been marked by service and mentorship through organizations such as the International Association of Lighting Designers and the Illuminating Engineering Society, where she has helped guide and inspire emerging professionals in the field.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is widely recognized for her generosity, steady leadership, and commitment to uplifting others throughout the lighting community.

In her remarks, she reflected on a career shaped by curiosity, collaboration, and gratitude for the mentors, colleagues, and experiences that guided her journey.

Ann Kustner – A Career Defined by Passion and Purpose

Ann Kustner was introduced with humor and heartfelt admiration, highlighting not only her accomplished career but the character and values behind it. A pioneer in lighting design in the Midwest, she built a respected practice grounded in technical expertise, creativity, and a deep commitment to educating others in the field.

Her journey into lighting was anything but linear, spanning business, fine arts, and engineering before discovering the power of light through photography. From there, she forged her own path—eventually launching her firm, where she has led projects across the globe for more than three decades.

Kustner is known for her generosity, humility, and dedication to people. Whether supporting her team through challenging times or mentoring others in the industry, she has consistently put people first.

In her remarks, she reflected on a career shaped by passion, perseverance, and faith, expressing gratitude for the mentors, family, and colleagues who supported her along the way.