04.02.25

The Student Affairs ‘Ask the Professional’ Event in San Diego

On February 20th, the IIDA Southern California Chapter hosted an engaging “Ask the Professional” event by the Student Affairs committee at Parron Hall in San Diego. The evening was vibrant and energetic, as students and industry professionals gathered to share insights and foster connections. Attendees participated in lively discussions, exploring current trends and challenges in the interior design field. The atmosphere was energetic, with opportunities for networking and collaboration that left everyone inspired and eager to engage further.

Keith Calabro from Parron Hall and Mairim Saavedra from the Design Institute of San Diego moderated the event. Students engaged in discussions and asked questions, gaining direct access to industry leaders. This interaction will help them navigate their future careers with valuable insights and increased confidence.

We want to thank our panelists who shared their experiences and advice:

• Kelia Todd (Moddy Nolan) – Passionate about design’s impact on daily life, from education to community spaces.
• Magdalena Kubik (HGW Architecture) – Leading seamless integration of architecture and interiors across industries.
• Hillarie Martorell (OFS+Carolina+ROOM) – A versatile industry expert with experience in design, dealerships, and manufacturing.
• Theresa Maurer, CID, NCIDQ, IIDA, COEE (LPA) – An NCIDQ-certified leader shaping workplace and clinic environments.
• Danielle Bean (C2 Building Group) – Bringing construction expertise and a meticulous eye to project management.

Our panelists offered invaluable insights that empowered students to discover their own unique paths. It was inspiring to hear the panelists discuss their journey of breaking into the field, addressing real-world design challenges with creativity and resilience. Their experiences illuminated the industry’s complexities, encouraging students to embrace their passion and innovation as they navigate their futures.

We would also like to thank our sponsors for being part of this amazing event: Tournesol, BEHR, Tilebar, Material Bank andParron Hall.