EDSymposium11

Written by: Mary Shields, HDR

Location, Location, Location

When I found out that SDA’s EDSymposium11 would be held in the city of Charleston, South Carolina, I have to admit I was intrigued. I had never been to Charleston in all my travels as a military wife (my former life) and in my current life as a tourist. They say that Charleston is a city rich in history, tradition and Southern charm. This is true – right down to the harbor and streets containing great eating establishments, quaint shops and friendly people.

Learning, Learning, Learning

Attending EDSymposium11 was a wonderful experience full of learning, laughing and networking with all the other wonderful SDA members. I was able to choose courses that were meaningful to me.

• Identity Theft - More Than Just A Financial Risk
• Clients from Hell and Other Love Stories
• The Art of Personal Branding
• Reputation Studies and Client Satisfaction Programs
• Carriage Ride though Charleston’s Historical District
• Principal & Administrator - A True Partnership

Interestingly, I was contacted to participate in an SDA Podcast as a Subject Matter Expert. I chose to discuss the networking benefits of being an active SDA member. If my recording didn’t hit the cutting room floor, I’ll let you know when it might be released (as long as I don’t sound like a goober).

Laughing, Laughing, Laughing

Of course, there was plenty of laughter. For example, many of us took a dinner cruise out into the harbor. There were tables set up all around. I sat at a table for six with three members from SDA Canada (all from different cities), one of the sponsor vendors, my granddaughter and me. We laughed and told some pretty good stories. Then, the dancing started (see photos). What do you get when you are on a cruise, have a killer DJ, girls who just want to have fun, and a cocktail or two? Well, if you are thinking a wild and crazy time, you would be right on the money.

On another evening, all the “girls” from Texas went to dinner at Hymans Sea Food Restaurant. We sat around banquet-style tables with brass nameplates marking famous visitors such as Oprah, and other noteworthy personalities. Did I mention there may have been a beer or two consumed? If not, let me assure you, this was the bubbly case.

The final festive event was the Banquet for installation of the incoming National Board Members. It is also a Celebration Banquet and Reception for the past year’s endeavors. Dallas brought home a national canstruction award for a local firm whose design won over the jurors for Structural Ingenuity. I was proud to be able to receive it for our chapter.

If you have never attended convention and wonder if it would be worth it, let me ask you these simple questions:

1. Have you been to Portland, Oregon, site for EDSymposium12?

2. Do you want to be educated?

3. Do you want to have a wonderful time? Then pack your bag and check your calendar. Time’s a-wasting.





Dinner Cruise

An Awesome Experience



Written by: Yvette Moman, FKP Architects

This year I had the opportunity to experience my first SDA EDSymposium, thanks to a scholarship I received. I’ve always heard nothing but rave reviews about the conference and now know first-hand that all those things I heard are true. From the seminars to the dinner cruise to the ceremonies, everything was so well put together.

I met so many amazing women who were strong, independent, intelligent, driven, and the list goes on. I made some wonderful friends as well. I feel I have a place to lay my head in several of the states that SDA is represented. Everyone was so kind and received me as if they’ve known me all along. That is so rare, especially among large groups of women.

From my perspective, the overall theme of EDSymposium emphasized becoming more involved. That the best way to get more out of the organization is to just jump in and really become involved in whatever area you feel comfortable in. I had so many excuses why I was reluctant to; family life, not enough time, etc. but I met so many women at the conference with the same if not busier lives and schedules that it challenged me to step up my game. Olivia Parker spoke at the Awards ceremony about involvement and I really took it to heart. I am currently the Hospitality Chair for the Dallas Chapter, and am now serving on the National Awards Committee. I am looking forward to attending more EDSymposium’s and getting the most out of this wonderful organization that celebrates the women in this industry that are the glue that holds our firms together.

Welcome reception at The Gas Light art gallery