06/01/2026
Recently, members of the Student Interior Design Association traveled to New York City and Newport, Rhode Island, for an incredible design-related experience. The group flew to New York City, where they saw the Statue of Liberty at sunset on a harbor cruise. Then they visited the International Contemporary Furniture Fair, which showcased cutting-edge furniture pieces, along with fabrics, wallpaper, and lighting. They took in the Tony Award-winning musical “Maybe Happy Ending” on Broadway and visited the international design firm HOK. In addition to seeing many iconic NYC sites like St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Times Square, and the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park, the group also visited the Museum of Modern Art. From New York City, the group took a train to Providence, RI, then arrived in Newport, where they visited several Gilded Age mansions, including The Breakers, The Elms, Marble House, Chepstow, Chateau-sur-Mer, and Belcourt Castle. The group included 12 students who represented all levels from rising sophomores to recently graduated seniors. Three faculty members, SeonMi Choi, Valerie Settles, and Amy Jacobson-Peters, supervised the group. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to see and experience the new, contemporary pieces in NYC alongside the historic architectural elements of Newport. There were many “firsts” for several group members, including riding the subway, visiting NYC, seeing a musical, and taking a train. The trip was made possible by the students' outstanding fundraising efforts throughout the year. The Broadway show was provided through the Westmoreland Fun Fund, and the folks at Triple C Lighting and Controls generously covered some group meals. The support from both the campus and design communities is greatly appreciated and made this trip memorable for all!
