NEWH - Winter 2024 - 12

EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND DIVERSITY
Revitalizing Howard University's Interior Design Program: A
Community Eff ort to Inspire the Next Generation of Designers
Howard University, one of the most prestigious Historically Black Colleges
and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States, is home to one of only two
interior design programs offered at HBCUs across the country. As a leading
institution committed to excellence and diversity, Howard University plays
a crucial role in shaping the future of Black professionals in various fields,
including interior design.
However, the representation of Black interior designers in the U.S.
remains disproportionately low. According to recent statistics, Black
professionals make up only 2% of the total number of interior designers
in the country. This underrepresentation highlights the importance of
nurturing talent and providing resources within the Black community to
foster growth in this creative field.
Recognizing the need to support the next generation of designers, the
NEWH Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity (EID) committee of the DC Metro
Chapter took action. They focused on ensuring that the students in Howard
University's Interior Design program could return to their fall semester
with improved facilities, allowing them to thrive in an environment that
encourages creativity and learning.
The Interior Design department at Howard University is situated in the
basement of the Architecture and Engineering building. Unfortunately, the
space had recently suffered from flooding and had been largely forgotten
over time. The materials library, a vital resource for design students, had
not been updated in over a decade. The students, who are passionate
about their craft, were in dire need of new resources and an inspiring space
that would allow them to excel in their studies.
To address this, the EID committee, led by Jessica Casiano, organized
a 4-day community giveback event aimed at revitalizing the department's
facilities. The event was a collaborative effort that involved cleaning and
organizing the library and classrooms, painting the walls, and even creating
a mural with the help of renowned artist Hamilton Glass. The materials
library was updated with newer resources, giving students access to the
latest tools and materials they need for their education.
This transformation was more than just a facelift; it was a significant
step toward providing the students with a quality education in a space
that reflects the importance of their work. The committee's efforts were a
testament to the power of community and the impact that collective action
can have on the lives of young professionals.
While the improvements have already made a positive difference, the
work is not yet complete. The EID committee is still seeking donations of
furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) to fully revamp the space. With
continued support, the goal is to ensure that Howard University's Interior
Design students have access to a learning environment that matches the
quality of education they receive-an environment that inspires them to
become the next leaders in the design industry.
In revitalizing this space, the committee hopes to provide a foundation
for these students to thrive and to ensure
that they can continue to break barriers in
the world of interior design.
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1. Martha Vlahakis, Wendy & Companies; Jacqueline Carmichael, Howard University; Sadie Coulter,
Marriott International; Gini Hetherington, De Young & Associates; Nicole Ben, Thrive In Design; William
Ferry, See3 Agency; Jessica Casiano, Marriott International; and Hamilton Glass, Hamilton Glass, LLC.
2. Elle Pechiney, Tarkett; Caye Burry, Marriott International; and Blair White, student.
3. William Ferry, See3 Agency
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4. Adrienne Scribner, Baskervill; Jessica Pfeifer, Host Hotels & Resorts; and Sadie Coulter and Jessica
Casiano, Marriott International
5. Hamilton Glass, Hamilton Glass, LLC.; and Taylor Sallis, Collective DC
6. Martha Vlahakis, Wendy & Companies; Nicole Ben, Thrive In Design; Joshua Frankel, GWS; and
Geoff rey Moore Jr., student
7. The completed mural!
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NEWH - Winter 2024

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