Dear Lighting Community,
The Women in Lighting + Design (WILD) Board of Directors is so thankful for all the support we have received over the past few years. As we move into our third year as a registered 501(c)6 non-profit, we have been able to not only grow but strengthen our organization, and help our members excel throughout the industry. For 2024, we are seeking sponsorship at the WILD Int’l Board level again.
Last year, with your financial assistance, we were able to:
- Launch a formal membership program for the first time – since July of 2023 we have had over 400 members signup and our goal is to double the amount this year
- Add seven new Chapters with signed charters in the US and Canada. In addition, we have four budding chapters looking for members to get started.
- Create a Mentorship Pilot Program, which received an overwhelming response – nearly three times the amount of applications were received for available spots, and the program filled within 24 hours.
Above are just the highlights, the Board was also able to host events at a variety of industry conferences and tradeshows, expand the Lamplighter Program with guided educational sessions, and increased DEIR engagements through a new heritage feature launch. The Board also continued to provide under-lying structure to support our Chapters and personal and professional development opportunities for our Members. This year our sponsorship goal is to raise $50,000 so we can strengthen the foundation WILD needs to succeed for years to come, provide networking and educational opportunities for our members at tradeshows and help move the industry forward to a more equitable future.
Women in Lighting & Design has provided me with an overwhelming sense of sisterhood and belonging. I have found strength, inspiration and many great friendships, both professional and personal, that allow me to be myself without judgement. The WILD community is so willing to lend a hand when asked and very giving of their time to support others. It’s an inspirational group to be associated with and I’m thrilled to be doing my small part on the Board and to give back to this wonderful group.
Cindy Foster Warthen
WILD Marketing Chair & Atlanta Chapter Member
Our volunteer-run community spans over the US and Canada, providing a sense of community for our members. As WILD Int’l creates the framework for WILD to succeed as an organization, our chapters are the direct link to our members, providing engagement and informal mentorship opportunities. Our combined efforts work towards creating a more balanced, equitable, and diverse industry that empowers and celebrates women – and we hope that you will join us in that effort. Each Chapter finds support and sponsorship from their individual communities, and we encourage local businesses to support WILD by sponsoring our Chapters, rather than WILD Int’l. Please reach out if you need help determining the best place for your support.
Women In Lighting + Design gave me an invaluable opportunity to create a program with a mission that is dear to my heart. Their encouragement, enthusiasm and support is unmatched, and I am forever grateful for the confidence they have given me to pursue my goals. The organization has also helped me grow as a professional and become more thoughtful and empathetic, and has connected me with an amazing network of friends and allies.
Elizabeth Williams
Lamplighter Coalition Program Leader
WILD seeks to provide the lighting industry with an inclusive and open environment to engage in conversations and inspire action. We empower individual members by increasing representation, amplifying their voices, and providing a safe and supportive network for personal and professional growth. We welcome all women in lighting and our allies seeking a more balanced, equitable, and diverse industry.
WILD is my sisterhood in a male-dominated industry. My lighting design firm grew quickly during the pandemic and the women I met through WILD were truly pivotal in supporting me as I navigated business startup and growth. Lighting Design is such a small industry and yet WILDs Nationwide network gives its members access to other like-minded business owners for guidance, lessons learned, referrals, and even working-parent advice. They are authentic cheerleaders, mentors, and friends.
Diane Borys
San Diego Chapter Leader
As a 2024 WILD Int’l Sponsor, you can help propel WILD forward as we continue to grow our positive influence and global impact. We place tremendous value on the partnerships that allow us to pursue our goals and succeed in our mission, and below you will find the benefits for you as our sponsor along with the different levels of participation: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze. Please email info@womeninlightinganddesign.org with any interest.
Thank you for your consideration and support.
Sincerely,
WILD’s 2023 Board of Directors
- Alessa Aguayo, President
- Kelly Roberts, Past-President
- Amy D Lux, Treasurer
- Amber Watnik, Secretary
- Rachel Bauer, Chapter Chair
- Cindy Foster-Warthen, Marketing Chair
- Lois I. Hutchinson, Programs Chair
- Haley Laurence, Outreach Chair
- Srushti Totadri, Membership Chair
WILD Int’l 2024 Sponsorship Drive
WILD Sponsorship 2024 Reservation Form
