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This Women’s History Month, Henricksen proudly celebrates Ada M. Tremonte, NCIDQ, IDEC, IDLCPA, IIDA, of ada Design Associates in Pennsylvania. Ada’s exceptional career represents the perfect blend of resilience, advocacy, and mentorship. Her expertise and commitment to empowering others resonate across the industry as she creates inclusive environments where individuals can thrive. Inspired by the generations of women who broke barriers before her, Ada leads with purpose, redefining perceptions of interior design and uplifting those around her.

For Ada, advocating for Interior Design has been a life’s mission. She explains, “Interior Design has often been misunderstood—viewed as merely decorative rather than a vital, technical discipline shaping the built environment. People have called it ‘frivolous’ or ‘easy,’ dismissing the depth of knowledge required. But I refuse to let outdated perceptions define me. Instead, I prove them wrong. I am strong. I am skilled. I am creative. I am a problem solver. I am an advocate for this profession. As an educator and a leader, I work tirelessly to ensure that Interior Design is recognized for what it truly is: a field grounded in technical expertise, safety regulations, human-centered design, and innovation.” Through her work, Ada has consistently demonstrated how the field’s depth, complexity, and impact extend far beyond what many realize, challenging misconceptions and paving the way for others to follow.

Mentorship remains a defining aspect of Ada’s career as a professional and educator. As the Director of Interior Design at Drexel University’s Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, Ada has committed herself to empowering her students to enter the industry confidently and passionately. “I equip them with the technical expertise and strategic thinking they need to succeed—but more importantly, I instill in them the belief that they are essential contributors to the built environment. They are not just designers but problem solvers, innovators, and changemakers. I want every woman I mentor to know that she belongs, that her voice matters and that she has the power to redefine the industry,” she shares. Her deep-seated belief in the importance of mentorship exemplifies her dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders and ensuring they have the skills and self-assurance to succeed.

Ada’s philosophy of persistence and purpose further underscores her leadership. “I believe that adversity is not a roadblock—it is fuel. Challenges are not meant to weaken us but to strengthen our resolve. Everyone faces hardships; if we allow them to fester, they can hold us back. Instead, I have made it my mission to use adversity as a springboard, pushing forward with unwavering determination. A ‘NO’ is never the final answer; finding another way is simply a challenge. Ada explains that trusting our instincts, standing by our values, and persevering are the keys to real transformation,” Ada explains. Her words embody the resilience and vision that have marked her career, inspiring her students and all who meet her to remain steadfast in their goals.

Henricksen is honored to spotlight Ada’s remarkable contributions and the legacy she is building within the interior design profession. Her resilience, innovation, and dedication to empowerment are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we advocate for our passions and uplift those around us. This Women’s History Month, we celebrate Ada and the countless women who continue shaping, challenging, and transforming our world for the better.