HIGH POINT, N.C. — The High Point by Design Foundation has joined forces with High Point Schools Partnership for Educator Exchange: Pathways to the Design & Home Furnishings Industry. The new immersive initiative introduces educators to industry professionals, inviting them into factories, studios and showrooms, and expanding their awareness of the multitude of career opportunities in and around High Point.
“We often talk about the importance of attracting the next generation to our industry, but first they have to know we exist,” said Jane Dagmi, managing director of HPxD. “Teachers and counselors have a unique influence over the opportunities students consider. By inviting educators behind the scenes to experience the creativity, craftsmanship, innovation and entrepreneurship that thrive in High Point, we’re helping them see possibilities they can share with their students for years to come.”
The two-day event kicks off with a reception 4-6 p.m. June 15 at Cohab Space that includes remarks from partners and supporters, a career opportunities roundtable featuring employers and employees from the High Point area, and a tour of the 35,000-square-foot Cohab campus. The reception is open to the community, but registration is required.
On June 16, 50 invited educators from High Point schools will embark on a daylong field trip that starts with breakfast and a presentation at Verellen Furniture, followed by a tour of the company’s headquarters and factory. From there, the group goes to Universal Furniture for lunch, a showroom tour and educational programming. Attendees will board a bus for a “windshield tour” of High Point’s design districts before ending the day at THS Creative, a full-service marketing, content and experience studio.
“At High Point Schools Partnership, we believe that when educators have the support they need and students have access to meaningful opportunities, our entire community benefits,” said Raven Jefferson, High Point Schools Partnership. “The overwhelming response to this year’s Educator Exchange, with more than 100 educators from across Guilford County expressing interest in participating, demonstrates the desire for stronger connections between our schools and the broader community.”
The Educators Exchange: Pathways into the Design & Home Furnishings Industry is made possible through a grant from the city of High Point and support from the High Point Market Authority, Cohab.Space, Verellen, Universal Furniture, THS Creative and WithIt.
