The 5th Annual IFMA Awards of Excellence was held at the Intercontinental Hotel on May 21st. A special evening where colleagues were recognized, and their contributions applauded by acknowledging their efforts through our distinguished awards.
A special thank you to the awards committee members: Ana Corrêa, Lori Stewart Coletti, Sean Murphy, Ed O'Rourke, Jane Strillchuk, Kate Thibeault, Daron Greelish, and Jeff Shute. And the awards submission committee: Don DiPanfilo, Jim Downey, Jim Connolly, Melodee Wagen, and Steve Fugarazzo.
The event could not have happened without the support of the many fine organizations.
*Lead event sponsor, Creative Office Pavillion/Herman Miller
*Entertainment sponsor, Pavillion Floors and Bond Brothers
*Cocktail reception sponsors, Unicco and Elaine Construction
*Wine sponsor, Unidine
*Program Sponsor - StrideRite
*Special DVD sponsor - RENTACRATE
President's Award was given to mayor Thomas Menino of Boston for his initiatives and commitment to ensure the city continues to be a leader in the global pursuit of sustainability.
Distinguished Associate: Joy Gustat of Diversified Project Management.
Distinguished Professional: John Depanfilo of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mass.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Given to Karen Osborn Shanely and Micahel Shanley for their outstanding achievement and longtime support of the chapter.
Best Practices: Small Project:The winner was Gensler. The team applied their expertise to create a new workplace consolidating their professionals from three floors onto one, opening communication, and allowing the creative exchange which helps them develop innovative solutions to elevate the client experience.
Best Practices: Large Project: Recipient was BlueCross BlueShield of Mass., Hingham. The development of the new BlueCross BlueShield South Shore, was part of a long-term real estate strategy to vacate several aging facilities.

The final category for Best Practices-Sustainability, was given to Bridgewater State College: Crimson Hall student residence. The design team, the college, and the MSCBA entered the design process with the intention of constructing a LEED certified building, facing numerous outside challenges and succeeding regardless of outside forces.

Closing remarks by Kate Thibeault of Pearson, incoming 2008-2009 president chapter, who offered a special thanks to the chapter sponsors, for their continued support and involvement. Especially to our platinum sponsors, COP/Herman Miller, and gold sponsors, StructureTone, Office Environments, Xerox, and Fox Relocation Management. In lieu of an award, a special contribution in honor of all sponsors, was made to the SPARK Center at the Boston Medical Center.

A warm "thank you" to all our Members for their continued support of the Chapter!!