The Illuminating Engineering Society of New York City (IESNYC) proudly acknowledges and honors outstanding individuals through its annual Service Awards program. These awards recognize the dedication, volunteer service, and meaningful contributions of members whose efforts advance the mission, programs, and impact of the IESNYC and the lighting community at large.
The 2025 IESNYC Service Awards were presented on Thursday, December 4, during the Lighting Industry Holiday Party, held at the Flos / Louis Poulsen Madison Avenue Showroom. The annual event—co-hosted by IESNYC, DLFNY, WILD, and IALD NYC—brought together the New York City lighting community for an evening of celebration and connection.
“The Service Awards recognize those members whose volunteerism strengthens the IESNYC at every level,” said Megan Carroll, Chair of the IESNYC Awards and Nominations Committee. “Their ideas and actions help curate content, vet products, and produce services and relevant, well-curated industry events that keep our members at the top of their craft. Through hundreds of volunteer hours, they make the IESNYC—and the Society as a whole—a richer, more diverse community and the leading authority in the art and science of lighting.”
2025 IESNYC Service Award Recipients
IES Section Service Award (Presented by the IESNYC)
Kenny Schutz, Focus Lighting
The IES Section Service Award is presented by an IES Section to recognize outstanding service that significantly advances the mission and purpose of the Society. Kenny Schutz is recognized for his significant contributions to the NYControlled Conference and for his dedicated, thoughtful, and objective work on the Progress Committee. His service supports not only the New York City Section, but the broader IES community through careful evaluation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to excellence that benefits the Society as a whole.
IESNYC Brilliance Award
Natalia Lesniak, Lumen Architecture
Natalia Lesniak is recognized for her consistent service to the IESNYC, with impact that extends beyond the Section to the broader lighting community. For several years, she has taught the local Fundamentals of Lighting course and supported its organization. Through her leadership of the Education Committee, she helps ensure high-quality learning opportunities that support professional growth and knowledge-sharing throughout the community, a cornerstone of the IESNYC mission.
IESNYC Emerging Professional Award
Zachary Pearson, FMS
Zachary Pearson is recognized for originating and managing the NextGen Program, fostering community, mentorship, and professional development for emerging lighting professionals. Through his vision, initiative, and sustained leadership, Zachary transformed an idea into a tangible program. NextGen empowers upcoming generations of lighting professionals, shaping our Section for decades to come.
Lighting Industry Holiday Party
The awards were presented during the annual IES / DLFNY / WILD / IALD NYC Lighting Industry Holiday Party, which welcomed approximately 225 attendees from across the New York City lighting community, including students, emerging professionals, established practitioners, retirees, and legacy leaders.
“It was a joyful and energetic gathering—glamorous, festive, and inclusive,” Carroll added. “What stood out most was the broad mix of industry voices. We are a deeply collegial community, and this evening truly reflected that spirit.”
The event also highlighted the industry’s commitment to philanthropy. Attendees raised $1,500 in cash donations for Safe Horizon (matched by DLFNY), donated hundreds of toys, and generated approximately $7,000 through prize drawings in support of student scholarships.
Through its Service Awards program, the IESNYC continues to honor the volunteer leadership that strengthens the profession, advances education, and fosters a connected and inclusive lighting community.
For more information on the IESNYC Service Awards, visit: https://iesnyc.org/Service_Awards
About the IESNYC
IESNYC (www.iesnyc.org) is the New York City Section of the Illuminating Engineering Society. The IESNYC is a volunteer professional membership organization whose members share a mutual appreciation for and fascination with all things lighting. They are lighting designers, architects, engineers, consultants, lighting manufacturers, lighting representatives, electrical distributors, and allied professionals. IESNYC members are dedicated to promoting the art and science of illumination engineering to their members, professionals, the lighting industry, and the public through inspiring events, informative programs and educational series, social outreach, and networking opportunities.