Orgullo Latino There is something to say about being a Latina.
I was brought up by humble immigrant parents who came to the US seeking amnesty in the early 80s; El Salvador was amid a civil war. I applaud them for wanting more and risking it all for a better life. As a child, the US was an exciting new world but with a language I quickly had to learn. As la hija mayor I was my own motivator and learned how to be a servant leader. Micultura shaped me and made me who I am today.
“Latinas are considered to be fierce, and we are!”
With fierce determination, I served as a medic in the US Army. Our culture teaches us that it takes a village to get something done and care for others we love. Orgullo comes within even when things are not easy, and you still plow through it. That is what I had to do to become a first-generation college graduate. As a bi-lingual Latina, I want to inspire and speak on behalf of mi familia. We have great faith, heart, love and not to mention good food and music.
Through my 16 years in the Lighting industry, I’ve had many mentors and great leaders who’ve embraced me for me and what I bring to the business. Yes, my Spanglish comes out sometimes but it’s who I am.
To all Latinx coming into the business-
“Be a leader who understands hard work and perseverance. Remember that failures and obstacles are part of life. It’s how you face them that matters. Just ask your Abuelita!”
Great leaders strive to make a difference in the community through the work they put in and leading by example.
“Female colleagues at every stage of their careers stand ready and willing to support one another.”
Juliana Ruffalo, Senior Sales at Visual Interest
” My strongest takeaway from the WILD Mentorship program was the group of women in my cohort: four professionals hailing from different regions and different facets of the lighting industry. These women have become more than colleagues: they are resources, cheerleaders, advocates, and friends who will continue to shape my career as long as I am part of this profession. I have to admit, I was surprised by the overall experience and the friendships made.”
I had never done anything like this before, but my experience encapsulates the purpose of the WILD Mentorship program: creating a structured space where professionals can learn directly from one another. I was originally expecting a traditional mentor-mentee model, where a veteran professional guides a junior colleague. But WILD has adopted peer-to-peer mentorship. This format allowed the four of us to share experiences, and it turns out people at different stages of their careers often face similar challenges. We were mostly mid-career professionals – some undergoing transitions in our careers. (For instance, I recently started dedicating more time to mentoring junior sales persons at my firm.) Every one of us brought valuable insights; optimally exchanged in an open, confidential setting.
Understanding peer-to-peer mentorship
Peer-to-peer mentorship is not unique to lighting. It is a well-established model practiced in professional development across many industries. Instead of the mentor giving and the mentee receiving, everyone in the group takes turns sharing experiences and resources, asking questions, and offering advice.
” It’s important for participants to turn off or set aside any distractions for the devoted mentoring hour, so they can fully benefit from not only being a teacher, but also a deep-listening learner. This approach creates space for intergenerational learning. Younger professionals bring new ways of thinking about communication, evolving workplace expectations, and emerging technologies. A mid-career designer transitioning to management may gain insight from a veteran manufacturers rep. Or a regional sales manager may learn from a daily Revit user.”
At any stage of your career you have lessons learned (often the hard way) from navigating projects, clients, career transitions, and our complex supply chain. It was my hope in being open and honest with my group that they could benefit from my hard-earned lessons.
Structure
In the WILD Mentorship program, participants are placed in small cohorts of four to six professionals that meet online twice a month: a commitment of about 3 hrs a month. As a full-time employee and a busy mom of two, this originally sounded like a lot, but I quickly realized, you will likely only need to lead or prepare for every fifth or sixth meeting. For the rest, you’re listening to individuals you learn to respect.
Each group is intentionally composed of people from different regions (so you’re likely not matched with your boss or client) and different sectors of the industry. We spanned all four time zones, so finding a time that worked for everyone is a challenge. Friday afternoon (1:00 pm Mountain) worked well for us. For me, it felt like a good departure from day-to-day tasks to focus on broader career and self-improvement issues. As an initial icebreaker, we all did a personality assessment (HIGH5), which turned out to be useful for my sales team as well.
Six months seems to be a sweet spot where trust builds gradually. Meeting twice a month consistently helps groups move beyond surface-level introductions into deeper discussions, and allows for flexibility with busy schedules should any sessions need to be adjusted. The online format makes participation accessible no matter where you live or work. And the small group size ensures everyone has the opportunity to engage and to lead.
What makes it successful?
Equality of roles: There is no single mentor. Everyone contributes knowledge and receives support.
Structured cadence: Though scheduling can be challenging, twice-monthly 1-hour meetings provide consistency without overwhelming commitment.
Diversity of perspectives: Cohorts are designed to include different disciplines and regions, broadening conversations.
Resiliency: The small-group format minimizes the risk of a single unsuccessful mentor-mentee match, ensuring deep connections through sharing and commitment.
Flexibility in topics: Conversations move beyond technical issues into leadership, self-empowerment, workplace culture, career changes, and other (sometimes surprising) topics.
Safe space: Repeated interaction within a small group builds trust and encourages honest dialogue, especially knowing that what’s mentioned in the cohort, stays in the cohort.
” I loved that our cohort explored topics both in and outside of lighting, and I am so grateful to the women in my cohort. They were easy to talk to, understanding, and, most of all, inspiring with their drive to continue to learn and collaborate! Their different perspectives, approaches, challenges, and successes gave me new insight into the possible directions a career in lighting may lead.”
Lasting benefits
The benefits of peer-to-peer mentorship will extend far beyond the six months of scheduled meetings. Though my cohort will not continue to meet monthly, we will keep in touch and hope to meet in-person at a trade show or industry event in the future. Exposure to different parts of the industry brought insights and perspectives I may never have encountered in my work as a manufacturers representative. Instead of adding one mentor to my network, I’ve established several peers as future resources and soundingboards.
“Hearing how others have faced similar challenges (successfully or not so much) made me realize I am not alone and prompted me to look for solutions in places I may not have considered otherwise. My peers provided valuable tools, and we encouraged each other to pursue opportunities as they presented themselves. Sharing our own experiences boosted our mental health/wellbeing, as well as our confidence. I can’t speak for everyone, but I better appreciate the value of my existing knowledge and skills.”
The lighting industry can be known as a lifetime sentence. While roles may shift – from designer to manufacturer to rep to educator – individuals often remain connected to the field for decades. Strengthening peer networks early and mid-career helps professionals, especially women, envision a sustainable and rewarding future here. Retention is one of WILD’s core goals, and Mentorship plays an important role. Female colleagues at every stage of their careers stand ready and willing to support one another.
If you’re headed to IALD Enlighten in Arizona in October, be sure to join the WILD Chapter members present during the Friday Lunch for an informal “Advocacy Meet Up”.
Women in Lighting + Design (WILD) is lighting the way to a more balanced, equitable, and diverse industry with its groundbreaking Mentorship Program, returning in January 2026 for its second formal cohort. Applications open this October.
Launched as a pilot in June 2023, the program reimagines traditional mentorship by breaking away from one-to-one models. Instead, WILD connects members across career stages in peer-to-peer group cohorts that foster shared learning, mutual support, and professional growth. After a successful first formal launch in 2024, the program is scaling up once again to meet strong industry demand.
A New Model for Mentorship
The WILD Mentorship Program is not business-as-usual. The first round brought together 13 diverse cohorts of 4–6 members each, blending lighting designers, manufacturers, sales agents, educators, and more. This cross-pollination created space for both emerging professionals and industry veterans to step into the dual role of mentor and mentee, forming lasting professional and personal connections.
Why It Matters
Impact and Praise from Participants
Mentorship is a proven driver of advancement and retention—yet only 37% of women professionals report having a mentor. WILD is closing that gap, providing women in lighting and their allies with a community of opportunity and support. The program now stands alongside WILD’s other national initiatives—the DEIR Committee, Lamplighter Coalition, and Parent Resource Group—all of which collectively serve 26 chapters nationwide.
Demand for the inaugural round was overwhelming, with 80+ applications received in the open call for participation. Participants described the program as enriching and career-shaping:
“I am grateful to the women in my cohort. They were easy to talk to, understanding, and most of all inspiring with their drive to continue to learn and collaborate!” said Juliana Ruffalo, Specification Sales Agent, Denver, CO.
“It felt incredible to both give and receive insight,” said Mary Hollenbaugh, Sales Director, Acuity Brands.
“This program gave me the community I was looking for,” said Carrie Walker, lighting designer, Atlanta, GA.
The mentorship format’s mix of structure, flexibility, and inclusivity proved transformative for participants at every career stage.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming second cohort will continue WILD’s emphasis on collaboration, accountability, and inclusivity while expanding to new formats—such as smaller groups for students and emerging professionals, industry roundtables addressing today’s most pressing topics, and “fireside chats” getting to know leaders in the field.
Ultimately, the WILD Mentorship Program is about more than mentorship—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient industry by cultivating diverse talent and empowering the next generation of leaders.
Applications Open
October 15
For more information on the program and its success to date, check out the WILD Mentorship webpage or read the LD+A article by Mentorship Program Chairs Sara Schonour and Sarah Richter.
Member Feature: Juliana Ejsmont (LC), is a lighting specialist with Leviton Lighting – Birchwood | Intense | Contech.
Juliana has been a member and involved in our Seattle and Chicago chapters. Take a look at what activity keeps Juliana focused “AFTER HOURS“…
Outside of my day-to-day career, I love incorporating lighting, architecture, and art into nearly everything I do. Photography has been a passion since I was young. I bought my first DSLR at 18, which sparked my interest in Adobe programs and digital art. Over the years I’ve explored so many forms of technological art just for fun, even autoCAD and AGi32. I also played in a concert band up until just a few years ago. I won’t reveal exactly what since guessing what people play is one of my favorite games. Concerts, museums, yoga, massages, cooking, fashion, antiques, flowers, nature, and just general exploring are all my kind of self care.
More recently, I’ve taken up stained glass, a craft I grew up watching my father do, and it’s been meaningful to carry his legacy forwardin both my professional and personal life. My mom would never call herself an artist, but my lifelong love of crafts definitely comes from her.
Growing up in a family business, lighting is heavily intertwined in my life. Despite having a degree in forensic psychology, I feel grateful every day for the path I’m on. Lighting truly touches everything I do.
Jennifer Pierce | Principal, Boston Light Source | Boston Chapter Member
I never planned to end up in the lighting industry, but fate (and a well-timed newspaper ad) had other ideas. Back in the day, I was studying criminal justice, convinced I would one day be an FBI agent. I had this clear vision of myself wearing a suit, running around solving crimes, and making a difference. But as life often does, it threw a curveball my way. As a young mom balancing school and the need for a steady income, I took a customer service job at an electrical distributor, thinking it would be a temporary gig. Little did I know, what started as a job would soon evolve into a passion-fueled career, one that’s spanned over 20 years, and counting.
Honestly, I had no idea what I was getting into. I was just trying to make ends meet while juggling school and the early surprise of motherhood. But I quickly discovered I loved helping people. And as I learned more about lighting, energy, and the complex problem-solving behind it all, I found myself more and more invested. I kept asking questions, getting my hands dirty, learning everything I could and before I knew it, I was hooked.
Since 2011, I’ve been with Boston Light Source, where I now serve as Principal. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work on both the distribution and contracting sides of the business. That well-rounded experience has given me a unique perspective and a ton of heart that I pour into every project. Whether I’m a part of creative specification driven solutions or mentoring the next generation of lighting professionals. I’m proud of the role we all play in shaping the way people experience space through light.
I truly believe that lighting is so much more than just selecting fixtures. It’s about how people feel, how they move, how they connect in a space. What we do impacts people in ways we don’t always see, and that’s what makes this industry so rewarding.
The road to leadership, however, hasn’t been without its challenges. Navigating a traditionally male dominated industry while raising a child on my own wasn’t easy. It required a lot of resilience, adaptability, and sometimes a stubborn belief in my own value. But I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and honestly, the rewards make it all worth it. One of the most meaningful parts of my role today is being able to support others, especially young women, so they can harness their voice and claim their place in the industry.
I’m incredibly grateful to be part of the WILD Boston Chapter. I’ve been a member since it reignited in 2023, and my favorite event so far has been our post Boston Lights Expo mixer. The energy in that room was electric, literally and figuratively! It was so inspiring to connect with like-minded allies, all committed to pushing the industry forward. The support and camaraderie were undeniable, and I left feeling absolutely energized. I am looking forward to continuing to contribute to the organization in meaningful ways as we grow.
Outside of work, I’m a busy and fulfilled mom of two, an enthusiastic home cook who loves experimenting with healthy, tasty meals, and someone who enjoys getting in a good workout or hitting the slopes in the winter months. My personal life is full of adventure, movement, and plenty of learning. Whether I’m in the kitchen, exploring new destinations, or in the workplace, I try to bring the same energy: stay curious, stay grounded, and always lift others up along the way.
I have to say, I feel so lucky to be where I am. My journey into the lighting industry wasn’t planned, but it’s been exactly where I was meant to be. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that sometimes the most unexpected paths lead to the most fulfilling destinations. Accidents can truly be your chance at purpose. With heart, hustle, and a little humor, anything is possible.
I’m beyond thankful to be asked to share my story here and to be part of an organization like WILD, where women in lighting get to connect, inspire, and grow. One of the greatest gifts this journey has given me, beyond the career, the lessons, and the impact, is the meaningful, lifelong friendships I’ve made along the way. These connections have been a constant source of strength, laughter, and inspiration, and they remind me every day why community matters.
Thanks for taking the time to read a little bit about my journey. I look forward to hearing all of yours! Here’s to cherishing the unexpected, to the friendships that carry us forward, and to lighting the way for others!
WILD is a volunteer run organization using the power of collected experience and action to drive change. See what positions are available to serve on the Board of Directors and what past Chair’s can share about their experience and time serving.
Getting asked about your career upon meeting someone for the first time is commonplace. Typically, a look of confusion and curiosity crosses someone’s face when I explain my job as an Architectural Lighting Designer. The canned “elevator pitch” explaining my role in the world of design is routine now, but it becomes more nuanced with each passing year.
During my undergraduate degree, I had the opportunity to work side by side with Richard Renfro, Sarah Randall, and Eileen Pierce. They taught me about light through hands on experience rather than textbooks. Much of that learning took place in the field or in the mockup room—late nights focusing lights in museums, seeing how each fixture was so much more than a mark on a drawing, and how every beam of light worked together to tell the story of a collection.
I’ve always been fascinated by visual structure and patterning. Whether behind the lens of my camera or bent over a jigsaw puzzle for hours, I never tire of noticing subtle shifts in color and form. The rush comes when you find just the right mix of light, texture, and shape. Those over night site visits and long hours in front of the computer scratched exactly the right itch—and confirmed that this was the career for me.
Many years later, I served as Lighting Design Project Manager for the Halls of Gems and Minerals at the American Museum of Natural History. As one of my first major exhibition projects, I knew I would again be learning through experience. Over five years, I absorbed everything I could from the curatorial staff—how critical light is to understanding gem and mineral structures—and layered it with my previous knowledge of architectural lighting. My incredible team and I conducted full-scale mockups and tested every potential light source until we found one that could render each specimen authentically. Studying the unique optical properties of minerals and their interactions with light, I found myself captivated by the minutiae and how the smallest of details made their impact on the bigger picture.
The gemstone education became the foundation for my most recent work: traveling the world to illuminate gemstones for high jewelry events. Between my regular architectural projects, I’ve had the pleasure of becoming an expert in jewelry and gemstone lighting. Working directly with some of the world’s most renowned gemologists, I continue to learn through experience. Each specimen is unique and reacts to light in its own way. I’ve learned the subtle color differences between Colombian emeralds and those from Zambia plus how a stone’s cut and positioning affect its brilliance. I’ve spent countless hours discussing gemstone formation, the composition of each bespoke piece, and the story each jeweler wants to share with their audience. While my role is to introduce artificial light to best showcase these extraordinary pieces, every onsite interaction becomes a new lesson—one that builds on the previous things I have learned and shapes the next showcase.
Just as we layer architectural light, every project I take on is another layer and continuation of my education. Years spent in the field, time at mockups and conversing with industry experts have taught me that lighting design is as much about adaptability as it is about technical skill. The subtle interplay between light, material, and environment cannot be fully understand from manual or a layout – it must be experienced. The interaction must be witnessed, tested and refined in real time. As my career advances, the types of projects I work on varies and I am excited to see what I will learn to illuminate next.
Just like my craft, I am adaptable and excited to learn new techniques and skills- each project adds to a foundation of lived experience that continues to shape and elevate my work.
Member Feature: Syllia Newstead (LC), is a freelance lighting designer with Live Nation Entertainment Inc.,.
Syllia is a new member and joined WILD at her first event during the WILD event at LEDucation in 2025. Take a look at what activity keeps Syllia rolling “AFTER HOURS“…
Syllia has always had an interest in rollerskating. She loved skating and skated with her niece and nephew when they were little. Rollerskating was a great way to express her self and also get some exercise in. It was where she could travel in time and not worry about the world. She also loves taking her beautiful orange skates on her vacations.
After seeing a flyer in town for Roller Derby, she was hooked. She knew it was a thing but it wasn’t real to her yet. Now Roller Derby is a very important part of her life. She has played as a jammer with four different leagues since 2017. Her home league is Free State Roller Derby in Rockville, MD where she was a captain for the Rock Villains during the 2023-2024 seasons. Her first bouts with Black Diaspora Roller Derby was at the Cornfed Tournament in Indiana, where the team won first place! Roller Derby has been able to bring her community and friendships. After a long day of work, it’s nice to not think about anything and just hit your buddies!
Syllia’s family is from Sierra Leone in West Africa. She loves her culture and wants more people to learn about Africa and Sierra Leone. She created a short film about Sierra Leone for its 62nd independence Day, highlighting its culture, music, people, and food.
Member Feature: Laura Green is the Director of Systems & Integration at Kinetic Lighting and the current chapter leader of WILD Los Angeles.
Take a look at what activity inspires and keeps Laura very busy “AFTER HOURS“…
I’ve been at Kinetic Lighting for over 9 years, and currently serve as the the Director of System Sales & Installations. As the chapter lead of WILD Los Angeles, I love connecting people and creating opportunities for others to grow their networks. I’m currently pursuing my MBA with a concentration in Leadership.
” After Hours” I enjoy archery, hiking, and camping with my family. We have a small farm “Green Roots Homestead” where we have a mini Jersey cow, goats, chickens, turkeys, honeybees, gardens, and even an emu—it’s never boring! I’m also a mom to two energetic boys, ages 3 and 5, so we’re outside a lot, exploring, playing, and taking care of the animals.
Life is definitely busy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
