EXCITING TIMES AHEAD FOR NKBA – NYC CHAPTER!

Dear NKBA-NYC Chapter Members & Community,

I am thrilled to reach out to you as the newly elected President of our vibrant NKBA-NYC chapter. It is truly an honor to step into this role, and I’d like to express my gratitude for the warm welcome and support I've already received.

Having previously served on the board as the Programs and Communication chair for the past two years, I've had the privilege of witnessing the incredible efforts of our chapter firsthand. It's inspiring to see how each member contributes their unique perspective from different sectors and roles in the industry, fostering an environment of the intelligent exchange of ideas and learning.

As we navigate the post-pandemic landscape, I recognize the need for an all-hands-on-deck approach to propel our community forward in this changed environment. I am committed to continuing the inclusive collaboration and innovative traditions with our 2024 board/council. Together, we will build on the outstanding offerings that have been the hallmark of our chapter, providing new experiences, networking opportunities, and fun learning experiences for the next generation of our talented professional members.

A heartfelt thank you to our outgoing President, Julie Schuster, for her leadership during these challenging post-pandemic times over the past two years. Julie's spirit has been instrumental in guiding us through this period of transformation, and we are grateful for her dedication.

As we embark on the new year, I am thrilled to extend a warm welcome to our dedicated officers who will continue to serve, including Rose Ott as Sec’y-Treasurer, Jeannine Price overseeing Membership, Joan Ravasy leading Programs, and Toni Sabatino as Sponsorship chair. Additionally, a special welcome to our newest board officer taking charge of Communications—Jamie Keel. With their

enthusiasm and expertise, I am confident we will continue to thrive as a chapter, creating even more value for our NKBA–NYC Chapter members and sponsors. The Board has identified priority goals for the chapter and are excited to share with you these preliminary initiatives for 2024.

We invite you to join us in these developing subcommittees; your valuable contributions will play a pivotal role in our chapter's success.

• Expanding strategic partnerships with our sister design and industry organizations. Lead: Toni Sabatino
  Membership expansion. Lead: Jeannine Price
  Exploratory committee for awards programs at trade fairs and networking events with the National NKBA. Lead: Joan Ravasy with Diana Mosher
  Upgrading our communications platforms and outbound marketing. Lead: Jamie Keel
  Chapter Development with certification and badge programs. Lead: Charle-John Cafiero
  Student-focused activities with students and schools. Lead: Julie Schuster
  Advocacy within our local community to participate and give back. Lead: Rose Ott with Suzie Wheeler

Join us on January 25th, 2024, and kick off the year enthusiastically at our "Pass the Gavel" & Chapter Meeting at the Miele showroom in the A&D Building.

I am genuinely excited about the journey ahead and look forward to working collaboratively with each of you to make our NKBA-NYC chapter an even more dynamic and engaging community. Here's to a bright future together for 2024 and 2025!

Best regards,

Charlé-John Cafiero
President, NKBA-NYC Chapter