HIGH POINT, N.C. — The High Point Market Authority’s Diversity Advocacy Alliance announced recipients for its Diversity Advocacy Alliance Awards, to be celebrated at a presentation ceremony and mixer held at JH Adams Inn at 5 p.m. on Oct. 26.
Varaluz/Varaluz Casa will receive the Open Arms Award, awarded for inclusivity and hospitality toward all showroom visitors regardless of race, gender or orientation. This award also recognizes the High Point Market exhibitor’s commitment to supporting diversity through its employment practices and marketing initiatives.
Monique Nicole, a business coach and interior decorator, will receive the Mentorship Award, which honors industry leaders who share their knowledge to foster success for established and next-generation professionals. This award recognizes her history of offering guidance, support and mentorship to emerging designers from underrepresented backgrounds.
The Design Besties — Whitney Atkinson, Rhobin DelaCruz, Lori Johnson and Nikki Watson — will receive the Social Responsibility Award, honoring industry leaders or companies who advocate diversity beyond the High Point Market trade show experience. The award spotlights individuals who drive community, innovation and unique perspectives across the industry.
“Each market season, many in our industry seek to progress in reflecting the diverse perspectives, design and people that it serves,” said DuVäl Reynolds, founder and principal designer of DuVäl Design and DAA committee chair. “This fall, we can’t wait to honor the leaders who actively strive toward this goal within the home furnishings community at large.”
“The DAA awards celebrate the individuals and organizations which ensure a welcoming and inspiring experience at High Point Market,” said Tammy Covington, HPMA president and CEO. “HPMA is proud to support the DAA’s commitment to cultivating equity and representation throughout the industry and to recognizing the trailblazers.”
The DAA Mixer starts at 5 p.m., and the awards presentation begins at 5:45 p.m. JH Adams Inn is located at 1108 N. Main St. This event is open to all fall market pass holders. Free parking is available onsite. To utilize market transportation, please call 336-887-RIDE.
This event is made possible by the generous support of several industry sponsors. Silver Level sponsors include Rock House Farm Family of Brands and Fabricut. Bronze Level sponsors include Benjamin Johnston Design, Chaddock, Rowe, Verellen and Victoria at Home. Friends of DAA sponsors include Kravet and Phillips Collection.
The DAA was established in 2022 to advance, improve and support diversity, equity and inclusion within the home furnishings sector. With 13 founding members, the organization is managed by the social innovation firm Change Often. The DAA mission statement reflects a commitment to expand representation of the BIPOC community and to facilitate the implementation of equitable policies and practices throughout the industry and its leadership.
