Member Spotlight
Lynn Blazei
1. What inspired you to join ASID—and what kept you involved throughout your career?
I first joined ASID in college, encouraged by my professors and ASID Fellow Hollie Schick. I’ve stayed connected throughout my career for many reasons. Early on, it was the network, the opportunity to build business skills, and the chance to grow my design community. As my career progressed, my reasons for volunteering evolved into leadership opportunities, including helping guide both the chapter and the national board. Today, our work is still not finished, especially in advocacy and legislative efforts. One of the best things about ASID is that there is always something new that needs attention. I guess that’s why I haven’t been able to step away.
2. What is one way ASID has shaped your career or who you are today?
ASID has been pivotal in shaping who I am today. The connections I’ve made through the organization have supported me at many points throughout my career. The opportunities ASID has provided have helped me grow as a designer, a leader, and a person, and it continues to shape me even today.
3. What advice would you give to emerging designers today?
Get involved early and say yes to opportunities that help you learn and meet people. Take time to understand your strengths and passions, then look for ways to share your talents—through your work, your community, and professional organizations—because that’s how you grow confidence, build relationships, and create a career that feels meaningful.
Also, create your own boardroom. By that, I mean think about who you turn to when important decisions need to be made. Include a variety of thinkers at that table—both from within the design profession and outside of it. These are the people in your life who can offer perspective when it matters most. This approach works well in both your professional and personal life, and sometimes those groups overlap. It’s also okay if your board members change over the course of your life.
4. What’s a fun or surprising fact about you (design-related or not)?
Outside of design, you’ll usually find me running, golfing, listening to live music, cheering on the Packers, or spending time with my family.
5. Who has been your greatest influence or mentor in design?
I’ve been fortunate to have many mentors throughout my career. A former design director helped shape how I lead, think strategically, and bring ideas to life with intention. I’ve also learned so much from ASID leadership—both here in Wisconsin and at the national level—whose guidance, encouragement, and example have influenced the way I show up for clients, colleagues, and our profession.
6. What does being an ASID Fellow mean to you personally?
Honestly, being named an ASID Fellow is an honor I never expected to receive. I still remember being asked to join my first committee right after graduating from college. At the time, I saw Fellows as the elite of our Society—individuals who were truly advancing our profession.
It has been an honor to serve the Society and our profession, both locally and nationally. I appreciate the friends and relationships I have developed over the years.
Hollie Schick
1. What inspired you to join ASID—and what kept you involved throughout your career?
The professionalism of ASID is what interested me in becoming a member. While I was still studying Interior Design at UW- Madison, I was hired as a part-time interior designer at a local office furniture dealership. After graduation, I gave presentations to an architectural firm in Madison, and I guess they liked what they saw. They offered me a job to start the Interiors Department in their firm! It was important to my new firm and to me to increase my Professionalism that ASID embodies. In those days, you had to have an interview to join a professional Interior Design organization. I became a member of AID (the precursor to ASID). My first meeting was when AID and NSID merged and became the American Society of Interior Designers. So, you could say I was a ‘charter member’ of the Wisconsin Chapter of ASID!
2. What is one way ASID has shaped your career or who you are today?
ASID has definitely been a BIG part of who I am as a designer and how my professionalism has grown. It was important to me that I sat for the NCIDQ exam to demonstrate at least minimum competency ( as a designer, it is important to keep learning!)
I was really fortunate to join ASID at a time when there were many volunteer opportunities open to me. The Wisconsin Chapter has always been thought of very highly as many of the members who went before me (including Wisconsin ASID Fellows) had visibility at the national level. Early in my career, I was asked to serve as the liaison between students and the professional Wisconsin ASID Chapter. I was quite in awe of the Chapter leadership; I learned that they wanted to listen to what I had to say and they were very generous at sharing their knowledge with me.
3. What advice would you give to emerging designers today?
Don’t just wait to be asked to serve in a leadership role… Volunteer! It’s amazing where ASID voluntarism can take you.
4. What’s a fun or surprising fact about you (design-related or not)?
My ASID membership has led to job opportunities, travel opportunities, and has led to lifelong friends around the entire United States and Canada.
When I took my first trip for ASID as President for the Wisconsin Chapter, I got the idea of remembering this trip with a silver charm. When you see me, ask to see my FOUR charm
bracelets that are all reminders of the cities, towns, and states that I have traveled to on behalf of ASID.
5. Who has been your greatest influence or mentor in design?
I don’t think that I can name just one mentor, but of course the influences in Interior Design start with Education, are proven by Examination , and are furthered by Experience. Most of my design career was in the realm of commercial design with Project Management and Facility Management evolving as my time in the profession grew. The first person who asked me to volunteer was Virginia Luckhardt, ASID, a residential interior designer. I didn’t think of her as my mentor because our career paths were so different. When I was asked to speak at her funeral, I realized that my ASID career began with her and she was definitely a mentor to me.
6. What does being an ASID Fellow mean to you personally?
I was humbled to receive Fellowship in ASID. According to official ASID publications, “Fellowship is bestowed on professional members who have made notable and outstanding contributions to the profession, not only through their work, but through their demonstrated commitment to ASID and to the interior design industry.” Fellowship is confirmed by peer testimony, which is the part of the process that means the most to me.
7. “ Can you describe your level of volunteer involvement and how it contributed to your path into your current role?“
My current role is “retired”! However, I am still in touch with many friends in various parts of the United States and Canada whom I met through my ASID involvement. I also attend Wisconsin Chapter meetings when I am able and continue to support Wisconsin legislative efforts.
As a Wisconsin member I have served as President, three terms as Secretary, Board Member, and Strategic Planner for the future of our Wisconsin Chapter. On the National scene, I was West Central Regional Vice President, a national trainer (including the Training Advisory Committee which helped guide the Society toward stronger leadership with training that designers could use in their business and professional lives). I have served as a Juror for Local and national competitions. I have been National Nominating Chair; National College of Fellows Committee Chair and I served on the original Design Specialty Network in my capacity as a Facilities/ Interior Design representative.
Bill Beaudreau
ASID Wisconsin Fellows Recognition – Honoring Our Fellows 2026
Bill Beaudreau, FASID
1. What inspired you to join ASID—and what kept you involved throughout your career?
Joining ASID right after graduation from the University of Wisconsin-Madison is something you simply did as a follow-up activity. So I did just that. Fortunately, my employer paid my dues in the early years which gave me a bit of freedom to volunteer. I started on the PR committee working on Yellow Pages advertising, then developed programs for chapter members with Rita Bodven, attended my first conference in Chicago and even lost in an election where 3 members were on the slate for one particular board position. This was all in the 1990’s. From that point on into the 2000’s and beyond, I continued to volunteer at the chapter level and the national level, attend ASID leadership and regular conferences, speak to students, volunteer in the greater community, and regularly meet folks. Ultimately, all these activities and connections have provided a large degree of comradery and generated fulfillment from giving back to ASID and society at large.
2. What is one way ASID has shaped your career or who you are today?
ASID actually has shaped both my career and who I am today. Early on, a particular project referral from an ASID member and now the most fulfilling client relationship is still going after 35 years; the many facets of leadership training provided by ASID really helped me rise and develop a whole set of attributes and competencies that wouldn’t have been possible on my own; and the opportunities to network locally and nationally gave me the personal confidence I needed to recognize my personal and professional value. People, and in particular ASID members, are the link between my career and who I am as a professional interior designer today.
3. What advice would you give to emerging designers today?
Over the course of nearly four decades practicing interior design, one fundamental truth has remained unchanged: the significance of networking and building personal connections. While the tools and platforms available for connecting with others have evolved, the core principle endures—we are people first and foremost. Reaching out to
meet new people can sometimes feel intimidating, and nurturing meaningful relationships often requires patience and time. However, the rewards gained from investing in these connections are substantial and enduring.
4. What’s a fun or surprising fact about you (design-related or not)?
While at the University, I worked at the Historical Society of Wisconsin in the Archives and was assigned all kinds of tasks. There were 2 moments though, that were particularly powerful: picking up and leafing through an original Frank Lloyd Wright Wasmuth portfolio in the Rare Books storage area and reading letters written and signed in 1904 by Frank Lloyd Wright to Cudworth Bye about the Mendota Boat House, an unbuilt project on the Yahara River in Madison WI. I also ‘ran away’ to celebrate my 40th birthday by partaking in a humanitarian vacation in Ghana in West Africa. It was life changing.
5. Can you describe your level of volunteer involvement and how it contributed to your path into your current role?
My degree of volunteerism usually starts with regular involvement, evolving to intense engagement and then taking an appropriate break; then the cycle starts all over again. I’ve been through this major cycle at least 3 times over 35+ years with each progressive cycle shorter in duration. I attribute this cycling to a gratification from being in this interior design community. Add to that an applied accumulation of knowledge, experience and my availability to step into service. My current role is in the realm of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging at both the chapter and national level and it is now a chosen privilege to help shepherd the Society forward in this particular area.
6. What does being an ASID Fellow mean to you personally?
Actually, I still have to pinch myself to be sure it’s real. Receiving Fellowship in the Class of 2024 is still new. It’s a privilege—and a responsibility to keep serving so others, and the profession, can grow and further demonstrate the power of interior design.
7. Who or what has been your greatest influence or mentor in design?
This is a rather difficult question to answer. I’ve never had a mentor, and there are days when I wish that weren’t the case—so I strongly recommend having one. Instead, I have continually scanned and explored my environment for ideas, notions, and movements as a way of building a big-picture context in which to place my clients and their projects and simultaneously explore for myself. Then it becomes about being responsive to the client and maybe making a personal behavioral change. It’s interesting how this all morphs together. On another note, a design philosophy has always been intriguing, but rarely has one fully situated itself as a fixed, singular framework for my work.
8. Please share a high-quality photo of yourself (ideally, portrait format) with a brief explanation.
The recognition and awarding of Fellowship at GATHER 2024 in Denver was extraordinary. Shown is the moment with John Cialone, FASID, Chair of the Board of Directors 2023-2024 and Toni Gocke Wyre, FASID, Past Chair of the Board of Directors 2023-2024.
ASID_WI Board Spotlight
Margaret Nedow – President
I’m a motivated, honest, and curious individual who loves to design spaces and lead programs that deliver timeless, functional, and innovative solutions. I enjoy infusing humor and fun into a conversation, while keeping it real. Aside from design, I love nature, animals, and enjoy exploring the world with my fiancé and friends!
Q: What’s your current position / workplace, and how does it connect with your involvement in ASID?
A: I'm currently doing open-contract design work for a few companies in the Milwaukee area. My involvement in ASID has been and always will be critical in fostering relationships and providing a support system on mine and other's career paths.
Q: What is one initiative or goal you’re most excited to support during your board term?
A: Creating a more collaborative, inclusive, and meaningful experience for all our members, as well as the broader design community.
Q: How has ASID shaped your professional journey in interior design?
A: Through ASID I’ve gained meaningful friendships and mentorship, developed critical leadership skills, and been introduced to diverse, alternative perspectives that have expanded my thinking and enriched my design career.
Q: What’s one way ASID supports emerging professionals or students that you wish more people knew about?
A: ASID has a thorough and informative guide for new graduates that outlines the ASID resources they can utilize on their career path. Just type "Grad Packet" into the search bar and click on the PDF!
Q: Describe your personal design style in three words.
A: Mid-Century-Eclectic, Balanced, & Biophilic
Q: What advice would you give to members looking to get more involved with ASID?
A: Lean into what you're interested in. We have a lot of different committees and initiatives, so there's something for everyone! Just reach out to any of our committee or board members here https://wi.asid.org/getinvolved/volunteer/opportunities, and ask how to get involved in something you're passionate about!
ASID-WI Board Spotlight
Meet Hope Aislinn Dachel – Professional Development Director
Get to know me:
I have been a part of architecture and design industry since graduating from the University of Alabama. Over the course of my career I have focused on being a trusted resource grounded in experience, expertise, relationships and a genuine passion for elevating the built environment.
I am the Architectural Representative in Wisconsin for MSI, a leading manufacturer and distributor of natural stone, quartz, and flooring founded on the beautiful idea of making dream surfaces attainable. ASID has been an integral part of my professional and personal development by bringing brand awareness, community involvement and connectivity. I am excited to be a part of an organization that focuses on supporting every aspect of interior design from education to advocacy.
ASID-WI Board Spotlight
Meet Nancy Mooney-Buske – Finance Director
Q: What’s your current position / workplace, and how does it connect with your involvement in ASID?
A: I am a Senior Interior Designer at MSI General Corporation. Working for a Design Build firm on a variety of project types can be challenging. The ASID network provides access to new materials, details, and collaborative design opportunities.
Q: Describe your personal design style in three words.
A: Livable – Collected – Intentional
Q: How did you start your involvement with ASID WI and what motivated you to be interested in serving on the board?
A: ASID has for many years been a source of motivation, inspiration, and a standard of excellence I strive for. What motivated me to serve on the board? Well, in full disclosure a friend asked me to consider a board position. I’d been asked before, but at this point in my career, I knew it was time to give back to the organization that’s given me confidence, a strong network, and amazing collaborative designers.
Q: What’s one thing you’ve learned from being part of the ASID board that surprised you?
A: A few months into this role, I know I am blessed to work alongside a talented and passionate group of professionals. Collaborating with a group who have different areas of specialty and experience levels, has forced innovative conversation. This is about our community and a shared desire to support, challenge and provide growth opportunities for the members.
Q: What’s your favorite space that inspires you as a designer?
A: I am inspired by spaces that feel intentional. Rooms where light, texture and proportion feel elevated and effortless. I am drawn to layered design that is well organized, friendly and comfortable with a beautiful view!
Q: What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?
A: I love cooking. If I didn’t have a full-time day job, I would restore (or buy) a vintage truck and start a mobile food truck business with a wood fired stove. Imagine the smell of fresh bread, pizzas and seasonal savory foods, or teaching small groups how to make some delicious treats.
ASID WI Board Spotlight!
Meet Kelly Kuehn – Membership Director
Get to know me:
I am an interior designer and have been in the flooring business since 2011. I graduated with a BA in journalism from Indiana University, and a degree in interior design from Milwaukee Area Technical College. I live in Milwaukee with my three daughters and two dogs, I love to garden, sail, ski and ride bicycles.
Q: What’s your current position / workplace, and how does it connect with your involvement in ASID?
A: I am the studio design manager at Floor360 in Milwaukee, and work with residential interior designers who are amazingly talented. It brings me so much joy to see their award-winning work at gala events, and to get to know them on a social level.
Q: What is one initiative or goal you’re most excited to support during your board term?
A: I am very excited about bringing more residential interior designers and industry representatives into our chapter! These professionals have so much knowledge and experience to share!
Q: What advice would you give to members looking to get more involved with ASID?
A: Ask to join a meeting or event! We welcome new faces, and we want to know about what you do.
Q: How did you start your involvement with ASID WI and what motivated you to be interested in serving on the board?
A: I had attended multiple award galas and wanted to align with other professionals in this vast and changing industry.
ASID WI Board Spotlight!
Meet President-Elect, Katie Barczak
Get to know me:
Hi! I’m Katie Barczak, an interior designer in the learning environments studio at EUA in Milwaukee. My past work includes corporate, senior living, retail banking, religious, and education projects. I’m passionate about education design because it impacts students and communities, creating inspiring spaces for years to come. I love incorporating bright colors and vibrant patterns to energize spaces. Outside work, I enjoy time with family and friends, going up north, or doing art projects.
Q: What initiative or goal are you most excited to support during your board term?
A: I’m excited to build on our strong design community foundation, connecting designers of all experience levels. As President Elect, I’m optimistic about the next three years and look forward to engaging with advocacy and professional development opportunities.
Q: How has ASID shaped your professional journey?
A: ASID has been part of my journey since college at UW-Stevens Point, where I served as co-president. Networking events inspired me, and the community was always supportive. I used ASID resources for internships, career opportunities, and NCIDQ prep. Serving on the board is my chance to give back to an organization I’m passionate about and inspire others to get involved.
Q: What’s one way ASID supports emerging professionals or students that more people should know about?
A: Don’t hesitate to reach out! Connect on LinkedIn after events, and send handwritten thank-you notes after job shadows or internships. These small steps help you stand out and build lasting connections.
Q: Describe your personal design style in three words.
A: Creative, layered, comfortable
Q: What’s your favorite space that inspires you as a designer?
A: I find inspiration in patterns in nature or just on the by noticing the smaller details in the interior spaces I admire.
ASID WI Board Spotlight!
Meet Student Representative to the Board, Allie Applebee
Q: What’s your current position / workplace, and how does it connect with your involvement in ASID?
A: I’m in my senior year at Mount Mary University, graduating in May with a major in Interior Architecture and Design and a minor in Digital Marketing. My academic experience has strengthened my ASID involvement by giving me opportunities to apply skills beyond the classroom and engage with the design community. Serving as Student Representative has allowed me to build meaningful relationships with fellow students, understand their needs, and represent their voices within ASID.
Q: What initiative or goal are you most excited to support during your board term?
A: I’m most excited to expand outreach to students and members, helping them discover all the valuable benefits and opportunities ASID offers! Being the Student Representative has given me the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with fellow students, helping me understand their needs and represent their voices within ASID.
Q: How has ASID shaped your professional journey in Interior Design?
A: ASID has given me opportunities I never would have accessed on my own—from networking with industry leaders to recognition through the Design Excellence Awards. Being part of ASID has expanded my confidence, my community, and my sense of direction within the profession.
Q: What’s one way ASID supports emerging professionals or students that more people should know about?
A: I wish more students knew how many resources ASID offers—leadership roles, competitions, scholarships, and networking events. These opportunities can truly jumpstart a career long before graduation.
Q: Describe your personal design style in three words.
A: Restorative, expressive, intentional
Q: What advice would you give to members looking to get more involved?
A: Take that first step! Attend an event, volunteer, or reach out to someone in your chapter. The ASID community is incredibly welcoming, and getting involved opens doors to relationships, learning, and leadership opportunities.
ASID WI Board Spotlight!
Meet Communications Director, Jessica Boyung
Q: What’s your current role and background?
A: I’m a Project Designer at GROTH Design Group, specializing in Interior Design and Interior Architectural Design. I lead projects from schematic design through construction completion. I’m NCIDQ certified, a Wisconsin Registered Interior Designer (WRID), and earned my BFA in Interior Architecture from MIAD.
Q: What initiative or goal are you most excited to support during your board term?
A: Two big ones!
Launching our “Did You Know?” series to educate members
Exploring creative strategies to enhance social media engagement
Q: How has ASID shaped your professional journey?
A: ASID has been instrumental in my growth—through recognition like the Design Excellence Awards, promoting professional standards like NCIDQ and licensure, and connecting me with an incredible network. Serving on committees opened the door to my current board role!
Q: What’s one way ASID supports emerging professionals or students that more people should know about?
A: ASID offers mentorship, networking, and leadership programs that build confidence and connections—and often lead to committee and board opportunities.
Q: Describe your personal design style in three words.
A: Refined. Minimal. Earthy.
Q: What advice would you give to members looking to get more involved?
A: Start small! Join a committee or attend a chapter event. It’s the best way to meet people, learn more about ASID, and discover how your strengths can make an impact.
