August 2026

Dear Chapter Officers, 

Here’s to a successful summer and Chapter Officer election season!

Elections

This month, our 70 Chapters will hold elections for their 2027-28 Chapter Councils. Whether you’re welcoming new leaders or celebrating returning officers, thank you for your commitment to strengthening the NKBA community. 

NKBA Programs Chairs, Membership Chairs, and Secretary/Treasurers elected this summer will begin their two-year terms on January 1, 2027.

Later today, all Chapter Officers will receive a recap of self-nominations submitted, a specific roster of eligible voters for you to send ballots, and an election guidelines checklist to help ensure a smooth election process.

Events

While our summer may be hot and humid, our Chapters continue to stay cool, creative, and connected! Across North America, from coastal shorelines to the high desert, members are coming together through inspiring programs, educational events, and memorable celebrations. Here’s just a sampling of the many events you have planned:

Northern California is dazzling our industry at their annual Design Competition Awards Gala. Arizona is taking time to recharge with a dedicated Spa Event focused on wellness, education, and meaningful networking. Georgia is keeping members’ skills sharp and industry knowledge fresh with a Selling Opportunities CEU, while Nebraska/Kansas smartly addresses Artificial Intelligence with a Cocktails Event.

Eastern Carolina is accelerating career growth with their Fast Track to the Industry Event, and Ontario/Canada Chapter is inspiring the next generation of designers with their Annual Student Design Competition.

Skilled Trades

Congratulations again to our 58 Chapters selected to receive National Housing Endowment’s 2026 Career Connections Grant. Click here to submit your event details and recap report and receive your funds. 

We also want to celebrate your Skilled Labor successes with the entire NKBA community. Please remember to submit your complete event details through the Chapter Meeting Financial Report Form so we can showcase your great work.

Need assistance planning a Skilled Trades event? We’re here to help! Please contact chapters@nkba.org or mflynn@nkba.org.

Thirty Under 30

Nominations are now open through August 31 for NKBA’s prestigious Thirty Under 30 program. Nominate yourself or an outstanding colleague for the Class of 2027, to be introduced on the KBIS NextStage on February 2, 2027. Click here to submit a nomination before the end of this month.

CKBD Pathway + Planning Guidelines

NKBA has introduced a new pathway to Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer (CKBD) certification. Members with 7+ years of industry experience (including 3+ years in K&B) are encouraged to apply. Click here to learn more.

Also, order your copy today of NKBA Kitchen & Bath Planning Guidelines, 5th Edition. If you own the 4th Edition, please click here to explore what’s new in the latest release.

Save the Dates

Self-nominations will open September 1 for NKBA’s national Chapter Leadership Committee (CLC). Five current or former Chapter Officers serve on the CLC for three-year terms. To be eligible, candidates must have completed at least one full two-year Chapter Officer term within the past two years. You can learn more about the current CLC members by visiting the Resources > Chapter Officers page on nkba.org.

We’re also looking forward to seeing you this fall at the following events:

High Point Fall Market | October 17–21 

Kitchen + Bath Canada Expo | November 11–12

Cheers to a great summer season, and thank you for everything you do to support your Chapters and the NKBA community. We look forward to connecting with you during our August Chapter Officer meetings. Have a wonderful week!

Warmest wishes,

Kelly

Kelly Buchsbaum

Director, Chapters & Professional Development

kbuchsbaum@nkba.org