The International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY) unveiled the recipients of its third annual Hazel Siegel Scholarship: Dohee Kim from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT); Giuliana Grosso from the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT); Autumn Howard from the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT).
The awardees will enjoy a fully-covered three-day excursion to IIDA's SHIFT Conference in Dallas from February 14-16. Accompanied by Michelle Schutt, AIA associate and CertainTeed Architectural Solutions manager, they'll also receive a one-year IIDA student membership to the NY chapter.
Judged by a panel of IIDA NY members, applicants were evaluated on community involvement, academic performance, design aspirations, perspectives on diversity, and post-graduation objectives.
Autumn Howard (RIT)
As the IIDA Campus Center Co-Chair at RIT, Autumn channels her passion for design by inspiring fellow students and leveraging IIDA as a platform to build professional networks and intercollegiate relationships. She aims to articulate creative visions across different industry sectors, fostering collaboration among individuals with diverse skill sets. Autumn's career aspirations focus on continuous skill development and creating meaningful societal contributions.
Giuliana Grosso (NYIT)
Giuliana has dedicated nearly three years to the IIDA NY's Student Knowledge Forum Committee, currently serving as the student co-chair leader. Alongside another student co-chair, she orchestrates group meetings and networking events. Giuliana's passion lies in blending diverse disciplines, like infusing music theory into her designs. Her thesis focuses on an eco-conscious research facility and museum combination. Post-graduation, she aims to join a design firm committed to sustainability.
Dohee Kim (FIT)
Dohee has been actively involved with IIDA, serving as president of FIT's Interior Design Club, where she mentors peers. Awarded an IIDA membership at NY's inaugural Student Uplift (SUP) event, she achieved straight "A"s in design classes despite English not being her first language. Her goal is to create spaces that enhance users' daily experiences, aspiring to attain certifications like NCIDQ and LEED AP to promote sustainability, equality and diversity in future design endeavors.
This scholarship honors the legacy of Hazel Siegel, an acclaimed textile designer and chapter member who held numerous leadership positions and received multiple honors over 40 years of dedicated service to the chapter. Following her passing in 2020, IIDA NY initiated a program to honor her enduring contributions to the industry. The scholarship celebrates Siegel's legacy and the significant impact she made on the design community. For more information about the scholarship, please visit the IIDA NY website here.
