Volunteer of the Month: Angela Carter RGD and Sabrina Young RGD

This December, The RGD thanks Angela Brown Carter RGD and Sabrina Young RGD for their contributions to the RGD community.

“"Angela and Sabrina are both long supporters of the RGD. Most recently, as part of our Virtual Professional Development sub-committee, they teamed up to analyze webinar data from the past few years. Not only did they take a deep dive into data like attendance, time of day and topics, but also decided to add qualitative information to their report that took into account the experience of hosting webinars. Their thoughtfulness and dedication to this extensive project is truly remarkable. The Events Committee and the RGD is fortunate to have them as Members."”

How long have you been volunteering with the RGD, and in what capacity?

Angela: Over the past 2 years, I have volunteered with the RGD on the Virtual Professional Development sub-committee as a Member of the Events Committee. One of my most recent and extensive projects has been assisting with the organization, moderation and analysis of the RGD Webinar program.

Sabrina: I started volunteering with the RGD as a Mentor through the Mentorship Program in December 2021, Since September 2022, I have been serving on the Virtual Professional Development sub-committee, as a Member of the Events Committee.

What contribution are you most proud of / What experience/memory stands out for you?

Angela: This past year, Sabrina and I took on the task of conducting an in-depth analysis of the RGD webinars. Looking at the data from 2019 to 2022, we worked together to extract the most relevant facts and findings to help inform the RGD’s future offerings. The analysis took the better part of this year, however I am pleased with what the final presentation offers.

Sabrina: I am also most proud of the collaborative work that Angela and I undertook to develop the RGD Webinar Analysis Report. We compiled our findings in a 42-page visually appealing and easily digestible report (with an additional 13-page appendix!). I am very pleased that this report will help develop future RGD webinars.

What is the most surprising/unexpected thing about volunteering with the RGD?

Angela: For me, it was the connection I formed as part of the Virtual Professional Development sub-committee. Specifically, Sabrina and I became a team and worked hard to meet the goals we’d set for ourselves.

Sabrina: Getting the opportunity to see another side of the organization and the amazing efforts that go into running all the wonderful events and programming. 

What have you learned about the industry since volunteering for the RGD?

Sabrina: It never ceases to amaze me how vast and diverse the roles are within the creative industry and the ever-changing positions we play as designers.

Q: Based on your experience volunteering with the RGD, how would you describe the role of the organization in the industry?

Angela: More than anything, taking part as a volunteer for the RGD has reinforced the value of the organization and given me greater insight to the many individuals who commit their time and energy to empowering all those connected to the design industry. The RGD does well at offering programming that touches on many design disciplines and advocating on behalf of the design community.

Sabrina: The RGD provides a guiding light for designers to align to and helps create a feeling of connection and community. 

Q: What have you gained from being an RGD volunteer, and why would you recommend it to other Members considering getting involved?

Angela: Initially, a colleague of mine encouraged me to get involved. I’ve been a Member of the RGD for some time, but had not volunteered on any Committees. As a volunteer, I would say I’ve experienced many benefits;  including broadening my professional network, working alongside individuals who specialize in different areas of design, being more aware of the RGD events, staying in tune with industry insights/news and a greater connection to the RGD itself. For anyone thinking of getting involved—it’s really a matter of how much time you have to offer, there is always something to be gained through the experience.

Sabrina: I have gained more awareness, confidence, momentum and understanding of what it takes to drive all the amazing programs and events the RGD has to offer. It has provided me with a greater connection to other individuals within the design industry, outside my daily role as a designer. To others contemplating getting involved, I say just do it, give it a try, get involved; you won't regret it. You'll learn more than you believe you will.

Q: Do you have thoughts on what you might like to do as a volunteer with the RGD in the future?

Angela: At this moment, I hope to stay connected to the Events Committee and continue moderating the signage and wayfinding webinar series into 2024.

Sabrina: In the future, I would like to get more involved behind the scenes with putting on events such as the DesignThinkers conference.