“The DLF-NE is a fabulously fun place to network, learn, and stay connected to all things lighting. I love that the organization is open to all lovers of light – designers, manufacturers, and agents alike – and I’m always learning something new by engaging with this group of broader perspectives. The DLF fills a gap between the more technically leaning industry groups (like the IES) and designer-only groups (like the IALD), and our signature educational and community-building events – like the Boston Lights tradeshow, the student scholarship competition, and the annual boat cruise, just to name a few! – have become staples to plan around in the New England lighting community calendar. These great events – and the people who plan and attend them – not only fulfill the mission of the DLF, but help keep lighting friendly and fun!”

Sara Schonour

VP of Education + Engagement / Lytei

“Lighting is a highly technical field, and designers have a lot of geeky stuff to keep up with. Which is why the DLFNE is such a delight — a resource for staying current while having fun. You’ll not find a broader spectrum of lighting industry peeps from all associated trades and with all levels of experience, nor a more seriously entertaining calendar of events. 

Full disclosure – I was on the board a while back and for a pretty long time;  at least 25 years — so I might or might not be a little biased …  But one doesn’t stay on a board that long without a deep love and appreciation for one’s fellow board members.  Their camaraderie and passion make the DLFNE what it is – which is a coming together of all things and all people lighting, for events that range from the social and/or even silly to a curated Expo that rivals or surpasses any of its analogues.  It’s a rich mix, and all-volunteer, all done for love — and I love its spirit. The New England lighting experience would not be the same without it.”

Adam S. Kibbe

Principal /
Collaborative Lighting, LLC

“As I began my new job in 1990 as architect AND lighting design, I quickly realized that lighting design would be my new career path. I loved every aspect of lighting design and its community. I would attend every lighting design function possible which led me to The Designer Lighting Forum (DLF). I joined the board early on and we would brainstorm about what the next year would be about. 1994-1995 we started to think that “recent finished projects” by lighting designers would be a fun and educational way to gather like-minded colleagues to “tour” completed projects. This was a great success, and I was responsible for heading up a tour of the recently repositioned Prudential Center lighting design completed by Chris Ripman of Ripman Lighting. The following year I became president and we set out future goals for education and scholarships as well as the infamous DLF boat cruise which I believe originally started at the CambridgeSide Galleria.”

Jeffrey Sladen

Principal /
Sladen Feinstein Integrated Lighting Inc.

“In my experience as a design professional and educator, I can say the Designers Lighting Forum (DLF) New England chapter is more invested, involved, and enthusiastic about supporting each other than many other professional organizations I have encountered. They have been an invaluable partner to me, my students, and colleagues. Through scholarships, internships, and mentorships, the members of the DLF have assisted our students in their education and career growth. They have helped to drive the success of lighting endeavors on our campus such as sponsoring our Festival of Lights event, providing in-class critiques, and hosting lighting tours. I am thankful for their advocacy of lighting education and continued service to our students and the lighting industry.”

Stephanie McGoldrick

Teaching Faculty – Interior Architecture + Design / University of Massachusetts Dartmouth