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FROM MARK
Life presents a series of milestones that imbue a wide litany of unique and ever-changing emotions. Ranging from the raising of a celebratory glass to a tear-filled remembrance, they often conjure a multitude of reactions that can seem at odds. These anniversaries are intensely personal and often quite public, forcing us to react to other’s perceptions of joy or duress.
Today is such a day as we recognize the 20-year anniversary of IA. The number itself candidly shocks me, but as I close my eyes, each of the hundreds of engagements we’ve supported come rushing in. And as I open them, the face staring back certainly carries the weight of pouring oneself deeply into the work of transformation.
I am so proud – and more than a little humbled – by our accomplishments, the most measurable being the deep and meaningful friendships we’ve developed along the way. Yes, we can look at the size, scope, and impact of projects and programs, but honestly that feels somewhat irrelevant, particularly now.
When I’m (frequently) asked what keeps me going, my answer is simple and honest: the people. Our amazing team. Our equally amazing client partners. The providers who undergird the services and technologies. Our industry is filled with a dynamic ecosystem of humans doing their best to survive and thrive in an environment with little patience, incredibly high expectations, and never enough money or resources.
It’s also embodied by those who show up every day, carry water for what they believe in, and rarely have the luxury of rest. When you see me next, my fatigue may be apparent, but I’m still quick to laugh and self-deprecate. I’m a ridiculous person who just so happens to have found a calling that has sustained me for more than three decades, two of which with no one to blame but myself. Thus are the guts and glory of founding anything.
As for “what now,” it’s likely the expected things. A fun 20-year logo. A refreshed website. A refined set of services. A rethinking of where we pour the one thing that’s limited – our time – into the remainder of our working years. A place our employees can call home, with pride.
I’m a better human for having this experience together, and I’m excited to wake up tomorrow, hopefully sneak in a run, and then get to work on our collective behalf. Thank you one and all for the opportunity, grace, friendship, and partnership.
Warm Regards,
Founder/Managing Principal, IA
FLASHBACK TO 2006
When IA was born in 2006, life was simpler (and slightly more awkward):
- The Motorola Razr was peak technology
- Twitter launched and 140 characters felt like plenty (or not nearly enough)
- Facebook was still “cool” (and college-only)
- Beyoncé’s “Irreplaceable” was everywhere
- Low-rise jeans ruled, Pluto got demoted, and we all watched TV live
No algorithms. No endless notifications. Just vibes, ringtones, and a lot of confidence in questionable fashion choices.
keep in touch!
Stay connected with us on LinkedIn for updates, insights, and the occasional throwback. And as always, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to hear from you!
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