New Year, New Leadership: The 2026 IESNYC Board
With a realignment of the fiscal calendar, the IESNYC welcomes a new Board of Managers with the New Year. In addition to some shifting responsibilities, four fresh faces will lend their experience and energy to leadership.
Maria Kulhavy
Assistant Systems Manager, Barbizon Lighting
A newly minted IES member, Maria brings digital skills as well as a spirit of welcome and collaboration. She’s been a key collaborator and manager on projects like Google’s St. John’s Terminal, David Geffen Hall, and the Palace Theatre on Broadway. With an interest in young people and diverse voices, she’s an integral member of lighting management teams for universities and schools throughout the Metro Area.
Jessie Frias
Business Development Manager, illuminico
Armed with decades of experience in lighting project management (and a sharp tongue), Jessie has settled into her role in business development. She brings to the Board her insights from serving in WILD NYC leadership and as an active member of BUILD. She has spoken at various lighting events, including a lively IES Conference panel discussion on the supply chain, and claimed victory at the 2023 DLFNY Annual Debate.
Nick Emerick
Partner – VP Controls, The Dulanski Group
With nearly 15 years at The Dulanski Group, Nick has ascended to Principal. Originally destined for “the theatre” he turned his expertise in performing arts venues to architectural lighting controls for all types of spaces. Transitioning from a supporting role at IESNYC, Nick sees himself as a steward for good governance, transparency, and meaningful progress.
Monica Bradley
Senior Associate, Robert Derector Associates
Monica Bradley brings her electrical engineering perspective to Section leadership. She was Project Manager and Lead Electrical Engineer for the 1.2 million sqft buildout for Google at 550 Washington. These days, she’s working more on the business side: on client and project management as well as internal project costing. For the IESNYC, she envisions an empowered Board of Managers bringing individual concerns into the context of the broader organization.
Please welcome these new voices as they share their unique energy and perspectives. And be sure to appreciate the continuing service of
Zachary Pearson, Fisher Marantz Stone
Matthew Dacey, ELA + Synergy
Atilla Uysal, LumenArch
Randy Sabedra, RS Lighting Design
Philip Cialdella, Light Abilities
Mike Barr, Lutron
Shoshanna Segal, Hartranft Lighting Studios
Megan Carroll, Carroll Consulting
Melissa Goren, MG Engineering
Brigid Hardiman, Available Light
Colin Conroy, WSP
Jess Kaller, Jess Kaller Design
Nathalie Faubert, Cline Bettridge Bernstein
John Delfino, Available Light
Craig Bernecker, Parsons School of Design
Christine Heller, Focus Lighting
Erin Krummenacker, Specification Lighting Sales
A new Board brings new opportunities for the rest of the Section, too. Are you looking for ways to build leadership skills, meet people outside your immediate circle, or gain a clearer view of how the lighting supply chain fits together? This is the time to step forward. Multiple committees are seeking people who can take on discrete tasks, share ideas, or simply lend ongoing support. You needn’t be a longtime member, just bring your curiosity and follow-through.
Your participation can shape the future of the Section and strengthen the community you work in every day. Come, join in the fun for another impactful year.
JOIN A COMMITTEE
