FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 15, 2018

DENNIS KRAUSE TO RETIRE FROM SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT ROLE AT THE INTERNATIONAL INTERIOR DESIGN ASSOCIATION

CHICAGO — The International Interior Design Association (IIDA) today announced that its Senior Vice President, Dennis Krause, Hon. IIDA, is retiring from his position with the organization, effective today.

“Over the last two decades, Dennis has contributed immeasurably to this organization and to the profession as a whole,” said IIDA Executive Vice President and CEO Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA, LEED AP. “His depth of knowledge and genuine passion for design will be greatly missed. We look forward to building upon the legacy he has inspired at the organization and within the industry.”

Krause’s steadfast leadership has contributed to amplifying and advancing the work of commercial design professionals since the earliest days of the association, committing more than 20 years to IIDA and its membership. He established and led cornerstone events and competitions, expanding their scope and prestige, including both the annual Global Excellence Awards ceremony and COOL, the signature black-tie event that recognizes the winners of the Interior Design and Will Ching competitions.

Beyond awards and associated gatherings, Krause has supported growth and enhanced dialogue with corporate and industry members of IIDA. This is reflected most prominently in his establishment of the Industry Roundtable, now a signature event for the association that recently completed its 21st session.

“I am grateful to have dedicated my career to the inspiring, innovative professionals in the commercial design industry. It has been an honor to be involved in the growth and evolution of IIDA, and I trust that this association and its members will continue to push boundaries and pioneer fresh ideas for years to come.”

Aisha Williams, senior director of industry relations, will support in the continuation of the duties and initiatives previously directed by Krause.

During the past seven years as a member of the IIDA team, Williams has spearheaded a number of key programs, including the IIDA Foundation and annual gala, while also serving as liaison to the organization’s corporate members. Prior to joining the association’s staff, she worked in sales, marketing and exhibitor relations for Chicago’s Merchandise Mart.

“Aisha approaches her work energetically and expertly, and offers strong leadership within the association,” said Durst. “I have great confidence in her vision and abilities, and am pleased that her role with IIDA continues to expand and evolve.”

About International Interior Design Association
IIDA is the Commercial Interior Design Association with global reach. We support design professionals, industry affiliates, educators, students, firms, and their clients through our network of 15,000+ members across 58 countries. IIDA advocates for advancement in education, design excellence, legislation, leadership, accreditation, and community outreach to increase the value and understanding of interior design as a profession that enhances business value and positively impacts the health and well-being of people’s lives every day. www.iida.org