NKBA Southern California chapter’s Membership Chair shares her experiences with chapter leadership. By Loren Kessell
Kelly Arballo, AKBD, realized her passion during childhood when she visited famous architectural structures and museums. She was drawn to the creativity, and she carried this enthusiasm throughout her schooling at California State University, Long Beach, where she earned a B.A. in Design with honors.
In 2011, she joined Zieba Builders in Long Beach, Calif., with CAD drafting skills. This was the springboard for earning her AKBD. Arballo’s design incorporates elements such as market research, spatial development, architectural presentations and more. An active volunteer with the NKBA, she spoke about her chapter leadership experience.
NKBA: What made you want to become a chapter officer?
KA: Not only did I want to become a chapter officer for the accreditation, but to join a community as well. There are so many great designers, sales associates, builders and other professionals in our community. To be able to bounce ideas off each other is priceless. The biggest draw was being able to stay current with all the new products and to be able to share this knowledge with others. This is essential for an interior designer.
NKBA: What do you contribute to your chapter? What are some standout moments and biggest accomplishments?
KA: My position deals with membership and guiding people to sign up. This includes individuals, companies, schools and students. Last year, I increased membership for our chapter by recruiting a new design school (55 new members, 15 employee members and 12 students), which earned me the Chapter Star Award at KBIS for membership.
NKBA: Why do you volunteer?
KA: I like being a part of something and helping others. There’s no greater feeling than seeing your peers succeed and knowing you had something to do with it.
NKBA: What is the value of being a chapter officer?
KA: The value of being an officer is not solely based upon the accreditation on your résumé, but rather the experience of working with others as a team, building a solid foundation and having your community grow together.
NKBA: Why is mentoring the next generation of volunteers critical?
KA: I know initially as a chapter officer, you’re not really sure of the tasks at hand and what made the chapter successful in years past. Having a former officer be at your side for questions is extremely beneficial, and can guide you toward a flourishing year. Knowing how to promote to vendors, get sponsors and plan events is a big responsibility, and having that guide is extremely important.
Officer nominations are open from May 6 to June 14. All officers are chosen via self-nomination. Individuals who wish to be considered for a position must login and will be directed to open slots, with their applications sent to the National Recruitment Committee. For more information on becoming a chapter officer, click here.
