Dear SEAOI Members,

As we approach the end of another remarkable year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible work we have achieved together as a community.

Your commitment to advancing structural engineering, supporting each other, and building a better world inspires me daily. I hope this season brings you opportunities to relax, celebrate, and spend quality time with your loved ones.

The holiday season is also a time of gratitude, and I am profoundly thankful for the contributions of each of you to SEAOI. Your engagement, participation, and passion fuel our efforts to strengthen the profession and the relationships within it. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for all.

This month’s Engagement Challenge is a perfect way to end the year by spreading appreciation and recognition. The December Challenge is: Spotlight a Member. We encourage you to nominate a colleague who inspires you for our monthly Member Spotlight. This is your opportunity to shine a light on the achievements, dedication, and spirit of your peers. Whether it’s a mentor who guided you, a teammate who goes above and beyond, or someone whose work you admire, shout it from the virtual rooftops on social media and a personal note of encouragement! Be sure to tag SEAOI, too, in your post. :)

In keeping with the theme of gratitude and recognition, I want to personally spotlight Cathleen Jacinto, SE, PE. If you have ever met Cathleen, you know that she is one of the kindest people you will ever meet and has a hard time not pitching in when an opportunity to help pops up. She's also incredibly intelligent and well-spoken. Thank you to Cathleen for saying that first "yes" to editing the bulletin when we still had one and thank you for your continuous "let's do this" attitude that makes you so fun to know and work with!  SEAOI is richer with you leading it.

As we all close out the year, I’m excited about the journey ahead in 2025. Thank you for being an essential part of SEAOI. Wishing you and your families a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year.  Spread the joy with a spotlight this month, too!

Warm regards,

Jennie Traut-Todaro SE, LEED AP

President, Structural Engineers Association of Illinois