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ASSOCIATION
HIGHLIGHTS & NEWS
| | Thirty members of IFDA's new HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY STUDENT CHAPTER held a vision board event on campus. Lilianna Allen, the Student Chapter's President, said "We had a great time getting together to be creative with one another, and network among all four classes." VIVID Interiors was so gracious to give them all their discontinued fabric samples which gave them a second life and really enhances the boards. | | |
On February 20, 2025, IFDA New England hosted "For the Love of Social Media" at Cabot House Furniture in Framingham, bringing together industry professionals for an insightful panel discussion on maximizing social media effectiveness.
Moderated by Vineet Malik (Managing Partner, Stone Showcase), the event featured expert panelists:
- Ricardo Rodriguez (Global Luxury Ambassador, Coldwell Banker)
- Emily Ridjaneck (Social Media & Press Manager, Broadview Marketing)
- Alyssa Zimmerman (Industry Relations, Eichholtz)
The discussion provided actionable strategies on content creation, audience engagement, and brand-building, offering attendees fresh insights into leveraging digital platforms for success. The evening also included valuable networking opportunities, reinforcing the power of social media in the design industry.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Ethan Allen, Cabot House Furniture, and Eichholtz for making this event possible.
| | L to R: Jennifer Goddard, Colleen Van Houten, Jeanine Lawless | | L to R; Katherine Kraneburg, Kat Mason, Manny Makkas, Maria Katsoudas, Manejah Terzi, Breanna Winberg | | L to R: Tony Miklaszewski, Brian Graves, Irina Yeliseyeva | | L to R: Vineet Malik,IFDA NE VP of Membership, Emily Ridjanek, Austin Bendetson, Ricardo Rodriguez, Alyssa Zimmerman | | L to R Karen Dzendolet, IFDA EF Chair, Catherine Bertulli | | | | |
Left photo : Larissa Cook IFDA NE Past President, John Trifone, IFDA NE President
Above: L to R: Ricardo Rodriguez, Alyssa Zimmerman, Emily Ridjanek
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On March 19th, Roche Bobois, in partnership with the International Furniture and Design Association (IFDA), hosted an inspiring discussion on the future of sustainable design. The event brought together industry leaders and design enthusiasts for a deep dive into the crucial role of eco-design in shaping our environment.
Special guests Elizabeth O. Lowrey, Principal at Elkus Manfredi Architects, and Marc Vigouroux, Deputy Consul at the Consulate General of France in Boston, captivated the audience with their insights and expertise. Their dialogue highlighted the pressing need for sustainable practices in architecture and design, emphasizing how eco-design can lead to innovative solutions that benefit both the planet and its inhabitants.
Throughout the event, attendees engaged in lively conversations about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the realm of sustainable design. Elizabeth and Marc shared their visions for a future where sustainability is woven into the fabric of every project, inspiring the next generation of architects and designers to prioritize eco-friendly practices.
The evening was not just a discussion; it was a call to action for all involved to rethink their approach to design. As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that the path to a sustainable future is not only necessary but also filled with exciting possibilities. This gathering served as a powerful reminder that together, we can create a world where design and sustainability go hand in hand.
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Event Sponsors: Roche Bobois, Top Notch Contracting, Simply Windows, Metropolitan Cabinets and Countertops
L to R: Amy Dumas, Francisca Claret, Kendra Wilson, Moses Ortiz, Diane Komodromos, John Horan, Mora Veo, Beth Rodgers
| | L to R: ISabelle Yabe, Michela Pearce, Nicole Arsenault | | L to R: Rosena Cornet, Megan Whipple | | L to R: Daniel Lombardi, Elizabeth Lowrey, Marc Viouroac, Consulat General de France a Boston, Amy Dumbas | | L to R: Berkeley Wlodarczak, Stanley Miklaszewski | | L to R: Mark Vigouroax, Consulat General de France a Boston, John Trifone, President, IFDA New England Chapter | | L to R: Lucy Le Pera, Amy Dumas | | L to R: Daniel Lombardi, Elizabeth Lowrey, Guest | | |
L to R: Craig Stevenson, Janet Stevenson, FIFDA, IFDA International and Chapter Past President,
Deanna Lorenti
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L to R: Rene Schleicher, Katy Retzbach, IFDA International President, Heather Hill, IFDA Philadelphia Chapter President,
Kim Stranix
| | Heather Hill, President of IFDA Philadelphia Chapter | | L to R: Rene Schleicher, Kate Hund, Kristen Cossa | | L to R: Sue Moran, Amy Popkin | | L to R:Jennifer Jarden, Ashley Dowse | | L to R: Susan Forbes, Susie Valerio, Heather McConnell, Amanda Stefanski | | L to R: Debbie Hall & Heather HIll | | |
The Educational Foundation of the International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA) announces it 2025 Board of Trustees selected to oversee and administer more than $30,000 in annual design-related scholarships and grants.
Karen Dzendolet of the New England Chapter, Named IFDA-EF Chair for 2025
Karen believes in intuitive, client-focused design, collaborating with and valuing her clients' lifestyles and goals.
After a career in corporate IT, managing products and projects for operating system software, Karen decided on a career change, and received her Master of Arts in Interior Design in 2006 from the New England School of Art and Design at Suffolk University in Boston, MA. She started her design business, KDZ Designs in 2009, in Western Massachusetts, focusing primarily on residential design consulting.
Karen has been a member of the IFDA New England chapter since 2009, serving as a board member, starting in 2010, and as IFDA NE Chapter President from 2014 through 2016. She joined the IFDA EF board in 2018 as Director of Scholarships and Grants through 2019, and became Vice Chair in 2020 and Chair in 2021. In 2022, she became Past Chair/Advisor and then became Chair for a second time in 2023. She served again as Past Chair/Advisor again in 2024. She resides in Pelham, MA.
Ida McCausland of the New England Chapter, Named IFDA-EF Vice Chair/President-Elect
Ida is a seasoned interior designer and project manager with a proven track record of excellence in residential and commercial design. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Drexel University, she launched her own firm, Ida J. McCausland Interior Design, where she has successfully delivered a diverse range of projects, including gut renovations and full-scale project management.
Ida has been an active member of IFDA since 2010, crediting the organization with providing access to the best in interior design. She has held several leadership roles, serving as Philly Board President, 2015 to 2016, IFDA International President, 2019 through 2021 – steering the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic – and most recently as Washington, DC Chapter President, 2023 to 2024.Ida is excited to bring her expertise to the IFDA EF Board. Ida resides in Media, PA.
Susan Hirsh of the New York Chapter, Named Past Chair/Advisor
Susan Hirsh was the Vice President of Decorative Products for Janovic, which was the leading chain of Benjamin Moore stores in New York City and on Long Island. She has been a judge of the Products Innovations Contest for the Window Coverings Association of America since 2002.
Susan was Chairman of the International Furnishings and Design Association’s Educational Foundation in 2014. She was the President of the IFDA’s International board in 2010. She has been on the board of the New York Chapter since 2000 and is currently its Educational Foundation VP. She resides in Mountain Lakes, NJ.
Earline Feldman, of the Carolinas Chapter Continues as Director of Scholarships & Grants
A longtime IFDA member, Earline has served on the EF board on several occasions. She received her BFA from Maryland Institute of Fine Art. She is a recipient of the "Georgia Peach Award". Earline is a well-known tapestry maven who owned and operated two tapestry galleries for several years. She created and manages the Historical Homepage for Tapestries and the IFDA Educational Foundation’s website. She resides in Canton, GA.
Kathleen Penney of the Philadelphia Chapter Continues as Director of Resources
Kathleen Penney has been a member of IFDA for the past 25 years, joining as a student from Moore College of Art and Design. Kathleen completed her design education, and subsequently opened her business, Kathleen L. Penney Interiors, Inc. in 2000. She specializes in not only interior design/decorating work, but also in renovation project management. She has served on the Philadelphia Chapter Board for over 16 years in various roles, including President for a two-year term. Kathleen was the first President in Philadelphia to implement the "Take A Seat Charity Auction", and then served on the committee for the following two auction events. Kathleen has also served on the IFDA International Board of Directors for a one-year term, working on Marketing initiatives. This is her third term as Director of Resources for IFDA EF. She resides in West Chester, PA.
Sarah Fletcher of the New York Chapter Continues as Director of Communications
A longtime IFDA NY Chapter member and member of the IFDA NY Chapter Board, Sarah is principal in Sarah P. Fletcher Communications. She specializes in the consumer products and design industry with expertise in the non-profit sector as well. She resides in New York City.
Also returning to the Foundation board in 2025 will be Shirley Ebert as Financial Manager. Katy Lynn Retzbach, IFDA International President, is also part of the Foundation board.
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CAROLINAS
Student
Emily Cruz Aguirre
High Point University
Pembroke Pines, FL
Ashley McHenry
Salem College
Winston Salem, NC
NEW ENGLAND
Professional
Maria Katsoudas
Makkas Workroom
Sudbury, MA
Paula Pomponio
B & B Italia USA
Boston, MA
Alina Wolhardt
Wolf in Sheep Design
Boston, MA
Student
Alina Dixon
Suffolk University
Allston, MA
NEW YORK
Professional
Robert Cardona
Shade Installer.Com Inc.
Bronx, NY
Student
Ahlem Mennaai
Berkley College
Berkley Heights, NJ
Lauren Orndoff
Villa Maria COllege
Buffalo, NY
Candice Thomas
New York School of Interior Design
New York, NY
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PHILADELPHIA
Professional
Jeffrey Holloway
Seaside Revival LLC
Marmora, NJ
Heather McConnell
Schoolhouse Woodworking
Chester Springs, PA
Lisa Palmer
Lisa Palmer Designs
Dowingtown, PA
Thomas Spicher
Spicher Creative
Hatfield,PA
Student
Nakahya Christian
Harcum College
York, PA
RICHMOND
Student
Jocelyn Hudson
University of Richmond
Richmond,VA
Nicole Mines
University of Richmond
Richmond, VA
VIRTUAL
Student
Tanja Eubanks
Ivy Tech Community College
Evansville, IN
Zainab Khan
University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington, TX
Nathan Kindall
University of Idaho
Moscow, ID
Seth Olson
Michigan Technological University
Hopkins, MI
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UPCOMING
EVENTS
April 14-16
International Window Coverings Expo (IWCE)
Palm Beach County Convention Center
West Palm Beach, FL
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April 26-30
High Point Market
High Point, NC
May 18 - 20
ICFF
Jacob Javits Convention Center
New York, NY
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Editor and Publisher: Linda Kulla, FIFDA, IFDA Executive Director
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