Sea Change AIGA Leadership Retreat: An Immersive Experience for Design Professionals

In June 2009, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Sea Change AIGA Leadership Retreat in Portland, Oregon, thanks to the support of AIGA Jacksonville. This annual retreat brought together local chapter board members from across the United States to celebrate achievements, exchange ideas, and strategize for the future of design. Spanning three days, the retreat was a melting pot of innovation, collaboration, and inspiration.

A Gathering of Design Leaders

The Sea Change retreat served as a platform for discussing pressing issues facing the design industry and sharing insights from AIGA leadership. Board members explored strategies to define the organization’s future direction while fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. The retreat wasn’t just about leadership; it was a celebration of the hard work and dedication that AIGA chapters and their members bring to the table year after year.

A Jacksonville Designer’s Perspective

As a Jacksonville Beach native and University of North Florida alum, I’ve spent my entire career immersed in the local business community. Traveling to Portland and meeting creative minds from across the nation was nothing short of awe-inspiring. I anticipated a sense of camaraderie among attendees, but what I encountered far exceeded my expectations. The support, openness, and willingness to share ideas were truly remarkable.

Every interaction was an opportunity to learn. Conversations spanned topics like client success stories, emerging design techniques, and industry standards. Attendees didn’t just share their victories; they shared their challenges, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone felt empowered to grow.

The Impact of Shared Wisdom

One of the most impactful aspects of the retreat was the realization that as design professionals, we have a responsibility to leave the industry better than we found it. Whether through mentorship, education, or pushing creative boundaries, our collective efforts shape the future of design. The retreat emphasized the importance of advocacy and education—not just for clients but for students and anyone who interacts with our work. By influencing those around us, we can make meaningful, positive changes.

Returning Home: Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the inspiration I felt during the retreat, returning to Jacksonville presented its own set of challenges. The daily grind of commoditized design work and resistance to new ideas in the local market felt like a stark contrast to the innovation I experienced in Portland. However, this juxtaposition only strengthened my resolve to push for change.

It’s not just Jacksonville—small business markets across the country often show similar resistance to fresh ideas. This underscores the need for education and advocacy. By educating clients and peers about the value of thoughtful design, we can combat misconceptions and demonstrate its transformative power.

A Vision for AIGA Jacksonville

The retreat left me energized and ready to contribute to an exciting year for AIGA Jacksonville. Our chapter is brimming with ideas for programming, membership growth, sponsorship opportunities, and community outreach. We’re also prioritizing collaboration with nearby chapters and professional organizations to amplify our impact.

Our mission aligns closely with AIGA’s overarching goal: to advance design as a professional craft, strategic tool, and vital cultural force. This year, we’re committed to not only enhancing individual member benefits but also driving progress within the design industry as a whole. Through hard work, passion, and innovative thinking, we aim to embody the spirit of AIGA and inspire others to join us in shaping the future of design.

Conclusion: Shaping the Future Together

The Sea Change AIGA Leadership Retreat was a transformative experience that reinforced my passion for design and my belief in its potential to drive change. The connections I made and the lessons I learned continue to inspire my work and my contributions to AIGA Jacksonville.

As we move forward, our focus remains on education, collaboration, and advocacy. By fostering a culture that values design’s power and potential, we can create a lasting impact—not just in Jacksonville but across the nation. Together, we have the tools and determination to shape the future of our industry, one innovative idea at a time.