AIADO Mitchell Lecture: Cheryl Durst

An exceptional communicator and leader, Cheryl Durst has spurred progress, driven change, and encouraged the expansion of the interior design industry. As the executive vice president and chief executive officer of the IIDA, Durst is committed to achieving broad recognition for the value of design and its significant role in society through both functionality and engagement in everyday work spaces and the built environment. Durst oversees the strategic direction of IIDA and leads the association's International Board of Directors and its professional staff, all of whom support the work of 15,000 members in 58 countries.

She has been referred to by Interior Design magazine as "an ambassador for innovation and expansion and a visionary strategist." For her leadership in the industry, she was inducted into the prestigious Interior Design Hall of Fame in 2016. Durst holds dual degrees in journalism and economics and is a member of the Board of Trustees for both the New York School of Interior Design and the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago.