Corinne Barthelemy
IIDA is the preeminent Commercial Interior Design Association with a global reach, advancing the profession of interior design through our network of 15,000 members across 58 countries. It is our mission to enhance the quality of life through excellence in interior design and to enhance interior design through knowledge.
This year, IIDA New England was more successful than ever in realizing this mission. As the 2015 Large Chapter of the Year recipient, IIDA recognized the New England Chapter as a “stellar example for the Organization, advancing and enhancing the profession of interior design through excellent programs, increased membership, quality publications, and graphics.”
While this award is certainly credited, in part, to results such as Emerging Leaders Network and the Philanthropy Committee, I believe the true source of this achievement can be distilled to two key actions: asking questions and enabling our members.
From asking a room of principals what we could do to strengthen our community, came the challenge to elevate the mentorship of your designers and resulted in the Emerging Leaders Network. From asking a room of Emerging Leaders the same question, came the challenge to contribute more to our greater community and resulted in the Philanthropy Committee. Our dedicated, outrageously creative committee members are constantly asking questions and pushing the envelope to better each event and initiative we offer (Fashion Show attendees, get ready); and our Board is continually asking what else IIDA NE can do to advance our community (mid-career members, we’re coming for you).
Thank you to all who have contributed to this milestone in IIDA NE. This is truly a collective achievement that includes chapter partners, event sponsors, members, volunteers, event participants and attendees, and the past presidents and board members that have worked toward our mission for the past 20 years.
I look forward to what we will build together next.
Sincerely,
Corinne Barthelemy IIDA
President, IIDA New England
