Ashtyn Mendenhall, Allied ASID
Ashtyn Mendenhall, Allied ASID
President-Elect

I love design—interior, architectural, fashion, graphics—all forms. I knew I wanted to make a difference; however, I did not know how my deep-rooted design passions could help individuals. I naively believed the medical route was the only way to help. Luckily, I read “Design for Good” by John Cary in one of my academic classes. This book shaped the trajectory of my life. Cary writes, “Design Dignifies. [Design] exists not for itself but for those whom it serves. It honors its users—who they are, where they are coming from, what they want to achieve. It proves that their preferences are important and that their voices have been heard” (11). I knew after reading this book, my love for design could be a career. As an Interior designer, I want to be an advocate for individuals. My goal in the design community is to create environments for people to feel empowered and inspired to live up to their potential. Through my education, I have become equipped to know the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the meaning of Universal Design, the impact design selections have on the body, and more. I seek to be a part of a firm that values people through striving to create an environment for everyone regardless of their “age, sex, size, or ability.”