Member Spotlight

Interface, Account Executive
LMNOP Committe CO-Chair | IIDA NY Chapter 

Taryn potenza

A fun fact about yourself? I am a trained cultural anthropologist. 

What made you want to join IIDA NY? IIDA is a great way to deeply immerse yourself in our amazing industry and expand connections within our community.

WHat position do you hold within IIDA NY, if any? Co-chair of LMNOP.

What is the most rewarding aspect of this role? Bringing people together at LMNOP’s networking events and seeing newly found friendships spark into future partnerships for community members.

How has IIDA NY shaped your professional career? IIDA NY has helped expand my professional network, industry learning, and my overall gratitude to be a member of our NYC design world.

How has your role in IIDA NY evolved during your time as a member? I began as just a member, then became a volunteer, and am now grateful to experience serving as Co-chair of LMNOP.

What goals do you hope to achieve in your current position? My goal continues to be bringing our community together, creating memorable events by providing creative and inspiring experiences.

Do you have any favorite events or memories so far from your time in IIDA NY? Leaders Breakfast is always a highlight for me, and of course, COLOR INVASION!

What would you say is the biggest benefit of joining IIDA NY? Meeting and connecting with people within the design industry.

What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a member of IIDA NY? Allow yourself to expand your professional reach, expand your contribution, and develop meaningful connections!

PAST MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS

  • Elisabeth Mejia

    Office Design Leader | HKS
    President | IIDA NY Chapter 

    As President of IIDA NY, my goals center on cultivating intentional and impactful connections across all facets of the Chapter, bringing together designers, students, design firm advocates, and industry partners in ways that deepen engagements and foster a greater sense of belonging.

    A fun fact about yourself? Before interior design, I dreamed of becoming a professional ballet dancer. I trained and performed at a pre-professional level and even started college as a dance major. That passion is what first drew me to New York City—and it’s a big reason why I knew this would be home.

  • Ethan Lu - May 2025

    Ethan Lu

    Assistant Chair Interior Design | FIT/SUNY
    Co-Chair College Ambassadors Committee | IIDA NY Chapter 

    I joined IIDA NY at Hazel Siegel’s invitation back in 2015 when I was the director of an undergraduate program. Hazel was a big part of IIDA NY, and she invited the deans, chairs, and directors of schools to annual IIDA NY dinner gatherings. Since my first attendance at the annual gatherings, I got to know more and more IIDA NY members and continued my relationship and committee work through IIDA NY colleagues.  

    A fun fact about yourself? I’m an Amazon Vine Reviewer. In addition to critiquing student work, I also critique products on Amazon. My home and my parent’s home are filled with free Amazon products.

  • ALEXANDRIA DAVIS

    Interior Design & Strategy | Corgan
    Executive Board for the IIDA NY Chapter

    As the 2024 president of the IIDA New York Chapter, Davis works to advocate for and advancement of the interior design profession. Through her work with IIDA she has found a community rooted in pushing the industry to new heights and creating more diverse spaces. Bringing design back to people is important to the evolving design practices within the industry. Being a part of the IIDA community is extremely important for the future of design.

    A fun fact about Alexandra? The first career that I wanted with a creative focus was to work for the Art Theft Bureau of the FBI.

  • Laura Sviridoff

    Senior Interior Designer

    Volunteer Coordination Commitee Co-Chair | IIDA NY Chapter

    A fun fact about yourself? I love exploring creativity in all its forms. This year, I have taken both floral arranging and sewing classes to work with my hands and spark new inspiration.

    What would you tell someone who was considering becoming a member of IIDA NY? Don’t hesitate to get involved! Everyone I have met through the organization has been welcoming and friendly. Whether professionally or personally, you’re sure to gain something meaningful from the experience.