Creating a Culture of Belonging: A Chapter’s Focus on Diversity & Inclusion (New York Metro)

Kristin Firine is a project manager and interior designer for Gramercy Design, a boutique design studio providing architectural and interior design services in New York City. As a previous board member for ASID CT, as well as a current board member for ASID NY Metro, Kristin is very committed to the interior design profession and community. With this in mind, she has been actively engaged in ensuring that the interior design community is inclusive and equitable for all people. Kristin believes in celebrating the rich diversity among all people in the interior design world and giving all voices a platform to do so.

Keith Jones has been an ASID NY Metro Board member for three years as the Emerging Professionals Chair. Currently he works as a Specifications Representative for one of the largest manufacturers of engineered surfaces- Wilsonart LLC. Keith is responsible for liaising with top tier A&D firms in NYC. As part of the Diversity & Inclusion Committee, Keith’s many goals include: sharing educational guidance; sharing work experiences within the design community; and working closer with his network of professionals who have the power to bring change to those who feel injustice within the design community, starting with ASID NY Metro.

Miriam Makram is an interior designer that focuses on commercial spaces, especially in the hospitality sector. She graduated from California State University, Fullerton with a Bachelors of Arts in Studio Art and continued her education at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, in Los Angeles, to obtain her Associates Degree in Interior Design. Miriam has been a part of ASID NY Metro for the past four years and is the chapter’s current Communications Director. She has many aspirations for the Diversity and Inclusion Committee, namely for the committee's efforts to have a real impact by reaching those who feel under represented, under appreciated, or under acknowledged in the community.

Bill Beaudreau, ASID, is president of CRB Interiors, an award-winning firm specializing in the design of unique interiors, with projects ranging from cafes and coffee shops to condominiums and single-family homes. Firmly rooted in Madison, CRB provides innovative, personalized service with results that are second-to-none. An established name in the Madison area, CRB (Caryer Ryan Beaudreau) has been owned by Bill Beaudreau, ASID, since 1996. Bill is known for his architectural approach to interior design problem solving. Bill has served various roles as a long-time active member in the Wisconsin chapter American Society of Interior Designers. He serves as a frequent juror for the UW-Madison Interior Design Program, and recently finished serving as a juror for the Milwaukee Home Magazine design competition.