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ASID Inducts New Members to the College of Fellows

August 30, 2023  by HFBusiness Staff in Business Strategy, Designer Weekly, Industry   

The College of Fellows is an honor extended to ASID members who exceed the standards of the design industry through their continued commitment to the Society. Through these accolades, ASID celebrates design professionals and the industry’s ability to make an impact on those for whom they design.

“ASID’s fellows embody the Society’s ideals through their work in advocacy, mentorship and advancement of the practice. This year’s inductees have not only excelled in their careers but, through their work, have influenced and positioned interior design as a profession with the power to impact lives,” said Khoi Vo, chief executive officer, ASID. “The successes of these fellows inspire and illuminate the paths of other designers.”

This year, ASID welcomes six new inductees into the College of Fellows: Susan Ballard-Gribble, Shundra Harris, Mimi Luna Hillen, and Melissa Moseley.

Susan Ballard-Gribble, FASID – Fellow
From award-winning designer to community service volunteer and advocate for the profession and ASID, Ballard-Gribble has done amazing work for interior design. Ballard-Gribble is a true champion and advocate for the right to practice, dedicating hundreds of hours in support of Tennessee Interior Design Legislation.

Shundra Harris, FASID – Fellow
Harris strives to be a leader who tirelessly avails herself to the community and the industry. Education, advocacy, mentorship and diversity are where Harris spends her time and talents, determined to influence and impact her corner of the world. Harris thrives on creating interiors that elevate people’s lives, not just in the physical and aesthetic sense, but also assisting her clients in the emotionality of daily living and wellbeing.

Mimi Luna Hillen, FASID – Fellow
Hillen has dedicated herself to ASID and the design profession for the past 45 years, both locally and nationally. She is considered one of the founding members of the ASID Colorado Chapter, was the 301st designer to pass the NCIDQ Exam and has continued to advocate for the profession for over four decades. Hillen has offered sustained, notable work on behalf of the profession and is an energetic, enthusiastic advocate for all things ASID. As a woman of Hispanic and Native American descent, Hillen has been a pioneer in the interior design profession, working to overcome prejudices and obstacles, serving as an exemplary role model and blazing a trail for others to follow.

Melissa Moseley, FASID – Fellow
Moseley embodies professional excellence and leadership. Her ability to assess current chapter and membership programs, lead others to connect, follow through to resolution and embrace the path forward has been invaluable to the Society. Moseley has spent countless hours envisioning, planning, supporting and inspiring others to be involved, be invested and become a leader. She continues to mentor students, advocate for interior designers and celebrate the built environment.

Honorary fellowship is extended to professionals who, while not interior designers themselves, have left an indelible mark on the profession as seen in their active support for the interior design industry. The 2023 Honorary fellows are Whitney Austin Gray and Valerie O’Keefe.

Whitney Austin Gray, Hon. FASID
As Senior Vice President at the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), Gray leads industry and applied research focused on supporting the adoption of healthy building practices globally. She brings over a decade of expertise as an international leader and is a gifted spokesperson passionate about the connection between health and the built environment.

Valerie O'Keefe, Hon. FASID
For nearly 17 years, O’Keefe has worked for ASID to provide outstanding support to its members and the profession. Her accomplishments are not noted by trophies or articles but are instead seen in the details of the Society’s most impactful programs. She prioritizes members and has consciously worked to make ASID a true community.