by HIGH POINT — The next generation of furniture design talent is already making its mark. The International Society of Furniture Designers (ISFD) is pleased to recognize Isabela Cysne, a senior product design major at the Maryland Institute College of Art, as the 2026 Tom Conley Student Scholarship recipient. Cysne also received the ISFD John Conrad Student Pinnacle Award for her design, The Tele-Conso.
“Furniture design depends on fresh perspectives, new ideas, and the willingness to challenge conventional thinking,” said David Blair, executive director of ISFD. “As ISFD celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Pinnacle Awards, we’re reflecting on the importance of supporting the people and ideas that will shape the future of furniture design. The Tom Conley Student Scholarship offers us an opportunity to recognize students who are beginning to shape that future. Isabela stood out for the strength of her work and the promise she brings to the profession. Supporting emerging designers isn’t simply about recognizing what they’ve accomplished today; it’s about encouraging what they will contribute to the industry tomorrow.”
“Design has taught me to look to the past for inspiration while imagining new possibilities for the future,” Cysne said. “I am particularly drawn to the ways Latin American artistic traditions and craftsmanship have shaped contemporary design, and how these influences can be reinterpreted through modern materials, techniques, and perspectives. I believe thoughtful design extends beyond the final object to consider the entire process of making it. I am interested in exploring how traditional craft can inform more sustainable design practices in production, while also finding ways to reduce waste without compromising the meaning or longevity of the work.
“Moving forward, I hope to continue bridging cultural heritage, contemporary innovation, and responsible making to create work that is both rooted in history and responsive to the challenges of the future. I am incredibly grateful to the judges for recognizing my work and to ISFD for supporting my continued growth as a designer. This scholarship is an important encouragement as I continue to explore the intersections of cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainability. I look forward to building on this experience and finding new ways to contribute meaningfully to the furniture design industry.”
Established in 2010 by ISFD’s Board of Directors, with instrumental support from longtime members Richard and Catherine Frinier, the Tom Conley Student Scholarship was created to recognize and support gifted student designers enrolled in colleges and universities nationwide. Awarded annually, the scholarship provides financial assistance during the fall semester to help students further their education and pursue careers in design.
The scholarship honors Tom Conley, a former ISFD president and longtime board member, who is a tireless advocate for the organization and for advancing furniture design. His dedication to the design community and support for emerging talent continue to shape the scholarship’s mission.
