(USA) – The International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) held its annual Enlighten Americas conference on 9–11 October 2025, bringing together more than 350 lighting professionals, educators, students, researchers, and manufacturers from 18 countries.

Held in Tucson, Arizona, the three-day event offered an extensive programme of seminars, roundtable discussions, and networking opportunities. More than 30 sessions explored a range of creative, technical, and ethical topics aimed at advancing knowledge and collaboration within the field of architectural lighting design.

A recurring theme throughout the conference was the growing global conversation surrounding light pollution and the ‘dark sky movement’. The issue featured prominently in several sessions and informal discussions among delegates.

IALD President Andrea Hartranft noted the significance of addressing these topics in a location renowned for its observatories and commitment to preserving the night sky.

Hartranft comments: “From the opening keynote with an incredible light pollution scientist to the closing session with DarkSky International’s top executive voice, our agenda makes clear the importance of the natural world in a profession built upon artificial light. Here in Tucson, the city where the ‘dark sky movement’ was effectively founded, that’s no small statement.”

The conference opened with a keynote address from Amy C. Oliver, Public Affairs Officer and Science Centre Manager at the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory. Her presentation, Glow Responsibly: Honouring the Beauty of Human Design and Natural Darkness, explored the effects of artificial light on ecosystems and urged designers to adopt responsible lighting practices ahead of regulatory requirements.

The closing keynote was delivered by Ruskin Hartley, CEO of DarkSky International, who emphasised the need to design lighting that is “smarter, not brighter”. He highlighted the environmental impacts of excessive illumination and left attendees with a call to action: “What are you going to do about it?”

The event also recognised outstanding contributions within the lighting design community. Five professionals – Teal Brodgen; Jill Cody; Ron Kurtz; Aram Ebben; and Mônica Luz Lobo – were inducted into the IALD College of Fellows for their significant achievements and service to the profession.

A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the IALD Lifetime Achievement Award to Randy Burkett. The honour acknowledged his extensive career in architectural lighting design, longstanding volunteer service, and dedication to the advancement of the field. In his acceptance remarks, Burkett expressed gratitude to his peers and reflected on his journey from small-town beginnings to working on some of the United States’ most recognisable landmarks.

The IALD Enlighten conference series will continue in 2026, with Enlighten Europe taking place in Paris, France, from 17-19 June, followed by Enlighten Americas in Austin, Texas, from 15-17 October.

www.iald.org