Owned and produced by the Designers Lighting Forum of New York (DLFNY), LEDucation has benefited from remarkably consistent leadership throughout its 20-year history. A dedicated group of volunteers has steadily transformed the event from a regional tabletop show into what is arguably the premier lighting trade show in North America. That stability has played a major role in the show’s success.

As LEDucation celebrated its 20th anniversary earlier this year, it also became clear that a new chapter was beginning.

A Year of Leadership Changes

Longtime Presentations Co-Chair Wendy Kalan told me during the April show that this would be her final LEDucation in her role. She spoke with pride about the educational program she helped build and expressed confidence in the team’s future.

On 26 June, your humble editor learned that Jason Ridley would no longer manage the show. Management responsibilities have been transferred to CONEXSYS, the company that has successfully handled attendee registration for many years.

Yesterday brought another significant transition as we learned that Co-founder and longtime Co-Chair Burt Grant was stepping down from his leadership role. Jamie Eck will continue as Co-Chair while the organization prepares for its 3-day conference.

None of these transitions diminish the accomplishments of the people who built the event.

Building North America’s Premier Lighting Show

LEDucation has become an industry powerhouse. Attendance has grown dramatically. The educational program is widely regarded as one of the industry’s strongest. The trade show floor has become a must-attend destination for manufacturers, designers, engineers, distributors, representatives and specifiers across North America.

That success did not happen overnight. It resulted from years of steady leadership, careful planning, and volunteers committed to improving the event every year.

Looking Ahead to 2027

LEDucation continues to evolve.

Beginning in 2027, the show will expand to a three-day format. LEDucation 2027 is scheduled for 13–15 April 2027 at New York’s Midtown Hilton.

The organization recently issued its Call for Speakers as it prepares for the expanded conference.

“With LEDucation 2027 expanding to three days, attendees will have more opportunities than ever to gain industry knowledge, connect, and earn continuing education credits,” said Presentations Co-Chair Craig Fox of ETC, Inc. “The additional day allows us to deliver an even broader range of educational content and perspectives.”

Presentations Co-Chair Shaun Fillion of NYSID | RAB added, “With an expanded program, we are especially eager to welcome fresh voices, innovative ideas, and practical insights. We encourage lighting professionals, designers, architects, engineers, and industry partners to submit proposals that will inspire meaningful conversations and provide valuable takeaways for our attendees.”

Fresh Voices for the Future

Shaun’s reference to fresh voices resonated with your humble editor.

Stability has been one of LEDucation’s greatest strengths. However, every successful organization eventually reaches a point where new perspectives become just as important as continuity. Fresh voices are valuable on the conference stage. They are equally valuable in the leadership team that guides the show’s future.

That timing aligns with another transition. Jennifer Mason assumed the presidency of the Designers Lighting Forum of New York on 1 July, succeeding Cynthia Turner.

Wendy, Burt, Jason, Cynthia, and the many volunteers who shaped LEDucation over the past 20 years should be proud of what they accomplished. They leave behind an event that has become the benchmark for the North American lighting industry.

As LEDucation prepares for its first three-day show in 2027, the combination of experienced leadership and fresh voices should position the event for continued success.

Additional announcements about the expanded conference program are expected later this month.

Go Deeper: Thought Leaders at LEDucation: Caroline Rinker, Burt Grant discuss the success of LEDucation 2023