by High Point, N.C. – WithIt, the women’s leadership development network for the home and furnishings industries, is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2023 Special Mentoring Edition of the WOW Awards.
The WOW Awards is an annual event that recognizes individuals and companies who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and support for women in the home furnishings industry. This year’s special edition of the WOW Awards will honor ten outstanding mentors who have made significant contributions to the development and success of women in the industry.
This year’s awards ceremony will take place on Friday, April 21st from 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at The Commons at Congdon Yards, located at 410 W English Rd in High Point, NC during High Point Market.
Emily Boyst, WithIt President and Hooker Furnishings’ Senior Director of Licensing and Special Projects, said she believes it’s important to give the industry’s mentors a moment in the spotlight.
“Women who are following in our footsteps and paving their way alongside us deserve support and guidance,” Boyst said. “Mentorship is the key to transferring invaluable knowledge and pushing someone out of their comfort zone and into a place where they can achieve greatness. This is why we are so excited to honor men, women, and companies who are actively bettering our industry through their support and mentorship of women.”
A panel of judges scored nominations and are honored to name two businesses and eight individuals as the 2023 WOW Mentoring Award recipients:
Laura Levinson, Valdese Weavers
Louise Traficanti, Eastern Accents
Nora Gomez, Nebraska Furniture Mart
Chris Cooley, Michael Alen Furniture & Design
Jeanne Chung, Cozy Stylish Chic
Karen Fallon, Hickory Chair
Mark Schumacher, North American Home Furnishings Association
Stephen Garrison, University Hall of Innovation and Marywood University
Synchrony
Wayfair
Tickets for the event are $50 for WithIt members and $60 for guests, which includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and drinks. All ticket sales will support the mission and work of WithIt to support and prepare the next generation of leaders in the home furnishings industry.
This year’s WOW Awards reception is sponsored by International Market Centers, J.B. Hunt Final Mile, Jola, Skyline Furniture Manufacturing, Synchrony, Barbour Spangle Design, Congdon Yards, Norwalk Furniture, and the High Point Market Authority.
To purchase tickets or learn more about the event, visit the WithIt website at www.withit.org.
