Blog Viewer

TaShavia Beverly-Prince, MBA, CSI, CDT^®

Specification Writer

“I believe volunteering is a two-way street. Not only does the work I do support others and make a difference within the organization, but it also mutually benefits me to serve, learn, grow, and connect closer with the community. Through volunteering, I’ve been able to build long-lasting relationships, push myself out of my comfort zone, and really appreciate all that goes into making CSI the amazing organization it is today. No matter how small the task or impact may feel, volunteers are the lifeline of any organization.”

Shamanna Kelamangalam, BSc, CTR, WELL AP

Director of Architectural Sales and Technical Support

“Volunteer work is important to me for the following reasons: personal growth, social connection, and a sense of purpose. Volunteering has helped me develop new skills, gain experiences in the field that I am interested in, and boosted my confidence. It has also been a great way to meet new people, build friendships, and feel more connected to my community. Helping others and sharing my knowledge and experience has given me a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment.”

Melody Fontenot, CSI, CCS^®, CCCA^®, CDT^®, AIA

Senior Specification Writer

I have always had a passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) and making others feel welcome. CSI has been an integral part of my career path and I want to be involved in elevating the organization as well as the role of specifier in the AECO industry. When I saw the opportunity to join the DEI Task Force, I was excited to participate, share my experiences, and learn more. The task force was a lot of work and was also one of the best volunteer experiences of my career. CSI staff kept us well informed and organized, and I learned so much from the other task force members. I have faced challenges in the industry because of my gender and age. I want to do all I can to pave the way for future generations to experience fewer problems and face fewer barriers. Volunteering is my way of giving back and it always ends up benefitting me as well. The choices we make each day can create ripple effects, and the impact we have on others can be great when we choose to lead with love.”

Jeremy Yoder CSI, CDT^®

Senior Field Advisor/Thermographer

“When I was younger and new to the design and construction industry, I benefitted greatly from the experience of my peers. They really helped me learn quickly and grow my business, but I felt like it was all “take” on my part and that I didn’t have much to “give” the industry. Now that I have now been around this industry for 22 years, I wanted to take the time to get involved and give back by serving my peers and sharing my knowledge with others.

I initially started by getting elected to the board of CSI Central Iowa and was eventually 

elected President of that same Chapter. When the opportunity came to join the Subject Matter Expert group to help review content for the CDT® certification exam, I volunteered and was part of that group for two cycles until deciding to join the CSI National Certification Committee – of which I am currently Chair. In 2022, I had the opportunity to move to Central Virginia with my family, so I had to resign from the board of CSI Central Iowa but soon joined CSI Richmond, where I was asked to serve on the board and am now its incoming Treasurer.

I have thoroughly enjoyed all my time volunteering at CSI over the years and have met some really great folks in the Chapters and groups that I have been a part of.”

Hana Nguyenky, CSI, CCS^®, CCCA^®, CDT_®, AIA, LEED AP, WELL AP

Specifier

“I believe that if something is important to you, you make time for it. CSI is an important industry resource and organization, and an organization can't continue without people to run it. I initially got involved in volunteerism so that I could help the organization grow and reach its goals and I started my role as a volunteer locally through CDT® preparation courses with the goal of helping increase awareness and knowledge of project delivery among industry members. I like learning and making sure information gets passed on so that we don't lose industry knowledge, and I continue to volunteer so that I can help the organization and its reputation as an industry resource. I make an effort to be involved at the local, regional, and national levels through educational opportunities, events, and leadership roles so that I can learn from and support a wide range of members. By working with other leaders, I hope to help provide opportunities for others to grow, so that we can all progress the industry.