Get Involved
Explore some of the important ways that you can get involved with the DAA.
Market Events
The DAA produces engaging programming throughout the year in partnership with major design and home furnishings markets. Through panel discussions, workshops, and conversations, we elevate diverse voices, inspire creativity, and help mentor the next generation of industry leaders. Explore images from our market events in our gallery.
Gatherings
The DAA brings our community together through networking events, cocktail receptions, volunteer initiatives, and other gatherings that foster authentic relationships. These experiences strengthen connections, encourage collaboration, and build a more welcoming and inclusive design industry. Explore images from our gatherings in our gallery.
Up Next:
Awards Ceremony
NO RSVP REQUIRED.
Mark your calendars for this year’s Awards Ceremony in High Point, NC.
Where
3rd Floor of Congdon Yards
400 W English Rd, High Point, NC 27262
When
Sunday, October 18th
5-7PM
Past Events
2022
Panel Discussion with Ashley (Ross) Hughes, Everick Brown, & Rachel Moriarty, moderated by Patti Carpenter | Fall High Point Market
Launch Party | Fall High Point Market
Walking Tour with Ashley (Ross) Hughes, Everick Brown & Patti Carpenter | Fall High Point Market
2023
Century Furniture Factory Tour | Spring High Point Market
Insider Access Showroom Tours with Arianne Bellizaire & Benjamin Johnston
Panel Discussion with Kathy Kuo, Arianne Bellizaire & Ashley (Ross) Hughes, moderated by Joanna Saltz | Fall High Point Market
2024
Panel Discussion with Byron Risdon, Peti Lau, Virginia Toledo & Noz Nozawa moderated by Hadley Keller | Spring High Point Market
“Insider Access Experience” with Erika Ward, Corey Damen Jenkins & Mikel Welch | Spring High Point Market
DAA Awards Ceremony with Emcee, Antonio DeLoatch | Fall High Point Market
2025
“Insider Access Experience” with Arianne Bellizaire, Michel Smith Boyd, Victoria Sanchez & Ben Johnston | Spring High Point Market
DAA Awards Ceremony with Emcee, Arianne Bellizaire | Fall High Point Market
2026
Mixer at Eichholtz with Corey Damen Jenkins | Spring High Point Market
“Insider Access Experience” with Marie Cloud, Kelly Finley, Jameelah Watkins-Mallet & Ben Johnston | Spring High Point Market
“Design Your Why” with Letecia Ellis Haywood, Sherrell Neal & Rhonnika Clifton | Fabricut Showroom | Houston, Texas
“Opening Doors” with Olivia Westbrook, Kelly Finley & Calvin Watt, moderated by Erika Ward | Fabricut Showroom | Atlanta, Georgia
“Back to Basics” Virtual Seminar with Victoria Sanchez | Zoom
“The Business of Design-Aligning Proposals and Contracts” with O. Stephanie Beverly | Zoom
DAA Awards Ceremony with Emcee, Michel Smith Boyd | Fall High Point Market
Check out photos taken at our past events.
What Are People Saying
Why the DAA Matters
"The Diversity Advocacy Alliance is creating the kind of conversations our industry has needed for years. By bringing people together around shared experiences and meaningful dialogue, DAA is helping build a more welcoming and innovative future for everyone."
— Erika Ward, Designer & Panelist
"Representation doesn't happen by accident—it requires commitment, visibility, and people willing to create opportunities for others. That's exactly why organizations like the Diversity Advocacy Alliance are so important."
— Zoë Pittman, Designer
Event Experience
“Participating with the Diversity Advocacy Alliance was one of a few deeply personal and thought-provoking experiences. The intentionality behind every detail, from the honest and nurturing conversations to the purposeful programming, reflects an organization that truly champions the power of our voices and understands that sharing them advances our entire industry.”
— Sherrel Neal, Designer and Panelist
"I left the event feeling inspired, challenged, and equipped with practical ideas I could immediately apply in both my career and my leadership. It was one of the most valuable professional events I've attended."
— Paola Neri, Designer
Participating as a panel member with DAA in Houston was a truly meaningful experience. The conversation inspired me and deepened my appreciation for the organization's dedication to advocacy. I look forward to seeing the continued impact of this incredible group.
— Letecia Ellis Haywood, Designer and Panelist
"The speakers were thoughtful, the conversations were honest, and the connections I made have continued long after the event ended. I walked away with a broader perspective and a renewed sense of purpose."
— Cristine Navarrete, Designer
Corporate Partnership
"Partnering with the Diversity Advocacy Alliance has been an investment in both our people and our company. The visibility, relationships, and meaningful engagement we've gained through DAA have strengthened our brand and reinforced our commitment to building a more inclusive industry."
— Danica Jones, Fabricut