My son was recently awarded a Purposeful with Perseverance award at his school. Although he wasn’t exactly sure what he had done to earn it, the recognition got me thinking about the hidden power of perseverance. What would our industry look like if we showed up for one another each day purposeful with perseverance? Could it be that perseverance is not just a trait but a defining factor in overcoming challenges and achieving success?
A couple weeks ago I had the privilege of joining the season opener of A/E/C Unplugged with host Danielle Gray, MBA, from SMPS HQ, and SMPS President, Dr. Paula Raymond Stamp, MBA, FSMPS, CPSM. Our conversation reinforced what many have shared in their own journeys: our paths are untraditional and unique, our stories are vast, but when we come together with intention, we can create positive change with lasting impact. Whether through mentorship, knowledge sharing, inclusion, or philanthropy, the generosity of SMPS members continues to impress.
This year, the SMPS Foundation is introducing a new way for volunteers to contribute to our mission: the Ambassador Program. This initiative brings together a network of professionals who support the Foundation trustees in advancing industry research and providing scholarships for our diverse futures. Ambassadors play a key role in communicating the value of research, engaging with SMPS chapters and regions, and expanding donor outreach and opportunities. Through their time and talent, these volunteers amplify the Foundation’s impact, ensuring that research-driven insights reach and benefit the entire A/E/C community.
We are also excited to announce a new project with Client Savvy, our research partner who will bring their unparalleled expertise in Client Experience (CX) strategies. By illustrating the current state of CX maturity for A/E/C companies, identifying best practices and revealing targeted actions for improvement, this study will offer firms the tools needed to assess and establish client experience as a central business strategy, driving measurable ROI and long-term client retention. This strategy-based research need was identified, along with other driving industry trends, in our Building Resilience: A/E/C’s Path Beyond 2025 report, which was developed to equip our industry leaders with the knowledge and foresight needed to navigate change with confidence.
As we welcome a new year, I invite you to join us in being purposeful with perseverance. Become a volunteer, contribute to industry-shaping research, donate, or help spread the word about what’s possible when A/E/C Intelligence™ opens new doors for you and your company. Your engagement fuels the SMPS Foundation so that we continue delivering on the priorities that matter most to you, your firm, and to the future of our profession.
Thank you again for demonstrating generosity. Your belief in what we can accomplish together, while being purposeful with perseverance, will see it through.
Article written by SMPS Foundation President Michele Raftery, FSMPS, CPSM, WELL AP. Michele is a principal at 4240 Architecture and can be reached at mraftery@4240arch.com.
