December 2015

Adrienne Shulman, LC 
Regional Sales Manager
Eaton’s Lighting Solutions

Q: How did you first get started in the lighting industry?
I started as a theater lighting designer. After I received my MFA in theatrical lighting design (and costume design!) from Rutgers University, I moved to New York. While working in theater, I also did freelance work, lighting exhibitions at the newly opened Soho Guggenheim Museum. That freelance work turned into a full-time job as the Exhibition Lighting Designer at the Soho and uptown Guggenheim Museums. Architectural lighting design was a natural progression from there, and now I’m in sales. You could say I’ve had my finger in almost every lighting pot! In sales, I interact with all kinds of lighting industry people, from lighting designers and architects to agents and manufacturers. Since I’m a people person, I really enjoy this aspect of the business.

Q: How did you first get involved in the IESNYC?
When I was at Jaros Baum & Bolles, one of the principal designers, Tim Pike, was involved with the IESNYC. He recruited me to get involved. Gary Dulanski, the president at the time, put me on the Richard Kelly Grant Committee with Ann Schiffers, and we had a great time together. It was not only fulfilling by giving back to my community, it was a lot of fun at the same time.

Q: How do you see your role as member of the IESNYC?
I have been on the Lumen Awards Committee since 2008. I started as co-chair, and now I’m mainly behind the scenes, gathering information from the winners. And of course I still love to present the awards with the Lumen Chair, Megan Carroll. I can’t believe the 2016 gala will be my 9th year involved in this event! The committee members are wonderful to work with, and I look forward to continuing my involvement with them for years to come.
 
Q: In your opinion, what are the best assets of the IESNYC?
The people. I have made some terrific friendships through the IESNYC that are still going strong over 20 years later. I’m thankful for this community of people that cares so much about the industry and works so hard in making it vital.