IIDA NY Chapter elects Ruby as president for 2020-2021 term

New York, NY The International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY) celebrated the inauguration of Erin Ruby, IIDA, CID, as chapter president for the 2020-2021 term. Ruby has served as an executive board member for the past 15 years, including as co-chair for the Pioneering Design Lecture Series for the IIDA NY chapter. She succeeds Annie Lee, IIDA, LEED AP ID+C, who served as president for the 2019-2020 term. Ruby’s presidential term goes into effect in July. 

IIDA NY is a professional organization that unites interior design professionals in the New York area, providing them with networking opportunities, educational events, and charitable initiatives. As Chapter President, Ruby plans to emphasize the importance of community-related outreach and cultural diversity during her calendar year. Ruby brings leadership experience from her involvement in both her professional background and community service. 

“I have always felt such a strong connection to the design community in New York state,” said Ruby. “As president, my role underscores the importance of observing, listening, and learning the needs of our community. The design industry has a strong voice and powerful platform, and my goal is to steer that platform forward to benefit those in our local communities. As we face uncertain times, I’m hopeful and optimistic that we will rise to meet challenges together.” 

Ruby is the founder of her namesake NYC-based multidisciplinary firm, Erin Ruby Design—which specializes in the development of branded, commercial interiors and product design. Ruby also co-founded the SolutionsNOW Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides immediate support to local, underserved communities, seniors, and individuals experiencing food, housing, and economic hardship in the city’s Upper Manhattan neighborhoods.

Prior to starting her firm, Ruby worked for such architecture and interior design firms as TVS Design, TPG Architecture, and Studios Architecture. In 2019, she was recognized as the honoree and recipient of the IIDA Leadership Award of Excellence for her dedication to and advancement of the Interior Design profession. Together with the IIDA NY board members, Ruby will continue increased recruitment efforts, forward-thinking networking events, educational opportunities, business development services, and creative workshop programs.  

“I’m honored to pass the chapter president baton to Erin, who brings passion, leadership and inclusion to this position,” said Annie Lee, 2018-2019 IIDA NY Chapter president and principal of NYC-based architectural and interior design firm ENV. “As we welcome Erin in her new role, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the chapter for helping to empower New York-based design professionals, and fostering a strong sense of community.”