To the surprise of no one who knows me, I'm not much of a joiner. But when I recognized the contributions that the RGD makes to design in Canada, especially their support of design education across the country, I realized that I had a professional obligation to support the organization. However, when I did join, I became part of a culture of smart, clever people, and it’s been a much better experience than I would have ever expected. RGD is one of the preeminent voices of design in Canada, and their work on behalf of all of us makes our craft a stronger and more respected field than it would be without their efforts.

Right after I became an Affiliate Member, I attended the inaugural DesignThinkers Vancouver. On the second day, I introduced myself to Hilary Ashworth, expecting a handshake and a couple of sentences. Half an hour later, it was as if we’d known each other for years, even if not that well. It was as warm and welcoming a conversation as I can recall having, and it convinced me even more firmly of the value of the RGD.

"I can't do anything else," sounds like a joke, but it's pretty close to true. I guess, "I wouldn't want to do anything else," would be more accurate. It's my way to put my creativity to use.

That's a hard question to answer right now, in the spring of 2020. Ideally, I'll continue to grow as a designer and an educator, and I'll be able to keep on helping a new group of kids every year reach their dreams, just like the professors who helped me reach mine.

- Currently serving on RGD's Board of Directors