NYSID MPSL Student Callie Walton Wins the 2025 IESNYC Merit Scholarship, a $25,000 Award

The Illuminating Engineering Society of New York City (IESNYC) has announced Callie Walton, a Master of Professional Studies in Lighting Design (MPSL) candidate at the New York School of Interior Design (NYSID), as the recipient of the 2025 IESNYC Merit Scholarship. This prestigious $25,000 award recognizes a full-time, first-year graduate student in architectural lighting enrolled in an accredited institution in New York State and supports the next generation of leaders in the field. Walton is enrolled in NYSID’s one-year, post-professional Master of Professional Studies in Lighting Design. Swagatika Rath (MFA1), NYSID’s Marketing, Communications, and Engagement Graduate Assistant, sits down with Walton to discuss this tremendous honor and her journey to lighting design.  

Swagatika Rath: What inspired you to pursue your studies in the field of architectural lighting and energy at NYSID?

Callie Walton: My journey into architectural lighting design began with my early experiences as a musician and stage performer. Witnessing how transformative stage lighting can be—its ability to set the mood and evoke deep emotions—ignited my curiosity about the broader applications of light. I often remind myself to "ignite your inner light to illuminate the world around you," a mantra that reflects my belief in light’s profound ability to transform spaces and human experiences. This inspiration led me to pursue formal studies in interior design and architectural lighting, and to harness light’s power to enhance everyday environments.

What does it mean to you to be a recipient of the IESNYC Merit Scholarship?

Being selected as an IESNYC Merit Scholarship recipient is a tremendous honor. It not only recognizes my dedication and achievements in lighting design but also reinforces my commitment to academic and professional excellence. This recognition motivates me to push the boundaries of my research and design while inspiring me to give back to the lighting community through mentorship and leadership.

What does leadership mean to you and how have you demonstrated leadership amongst your peers in the MPSL or in the lighting design community?

To me, leadership is about fostering collaboration, inspiring innovation, and empowering others. I have embraced leadership by serving as the President of the IES Charlotte Section, mentoring emerging professionals, and working as a graduate assistant at NYSID. Whether stepping up during challenging projects or guiding my peers through the acquisition of new tools and techniques, I believe in leading by example and creating environments where everyone can thrive.

How will receiving the IESNYC Merit Scholarship, and the associated benefits, enhance your pursuit of a career in the architectural lighting field?

The IESNYC Merit Scholarship represents both critical financial support and a powerful endorsement of my work. The benefits—access to networking opportunities, mentorship, and industry resources—will allow me to focus on advancing my studies in lighting science and control technology at NYSID. Ultimately, this scholarship will help pave the way toward realizing my long-term goal of establishing my own lighting design practice, where I can continue to innovate and contribute meaningfully to the field.

What role does the IESNYC play for you and other young professionals in the lighting industry?

IESNYC serves as an essential platform for emerging professionals. It is a vibrant community that offers opportunities for networking, professional development, and knowledge-sharing among peers and industry leaders. For many of us, IESNYC is more than an association—it’s a hub that drives innovation and helps shape the future of lighting design through collaboration and continuous learning.

Interested in Lighting Design?

Shaun Fillion, LC, Educator IALD, MIES, Program Director of NYSID’s MPS in Lighting Design, provides a specialized curriculum that prepares students to excel in the lighting industry, combining technical expertise with design innovation. With a focus on hands-on experience, collaboration with industry professionals, and access to state-of-the-art resources, the program equips graduates with the skills needed to become leaders in the field. The MPSL is a STEM and design program open to those with a professional degree in interior design, architecture, theater or a related field and offers classes in the evenings, in-person or online.

To learn more about the MPS in Lighting Design program, visit the program page.