This Women's History Month, Henricksen is honoring remarkable women in our industry, thoughtfully nominated by our employees for their inspiration and impact. Today, we feature Cindy Howery, Founder + Interior Designer at Studio C Interior Design in Madison, WI. 

Cindy serves as the VP of Professional Development on the IIDA Wisconsin Chapter Board of Directors and is deeply committed to advancing the careers of interior designers in Wisconsin. Recently, with IIDA Wisconsin, she launched the IMPACT ID program, designed to support mid-level career interior designers in identifying their next career steps while helping them develop their communication, creativity, and leadership skills. 

As someone who considers herself on the quieter side, Cindy especially admires women who use their voices to advocate for their beliefs and effect change. She draws inspiration from the women in her family, including her mother—whom she describes as a born leader—her sister, who bravely speaks out against injustice; and her grandmother, who was a soft-spoken yet fierce leader. 

When asked about a moment when she felt particularly empowered in her role, Cindy recalled her work on the Domestic Abuse Intervention Service's (DAIS) new home. This project underscored for her the significance of interior design and its capacity to facilitate change in people's lives, highlighting the profound impact that every project can have. 

As we continue through Women's History Month and beyond, Cindy encourages women seeking to advance their careers to discover what fulfills them, remain open to different viewpoints, be active listeners, and engage respectfully with others.