Dallas Market Center and ART, the creative home furnishings network, announce The H Foundation as the HEARTS Award recipient for their service to others and humanitarian excellence. The award will be presented at the 35th ARTS Awards, taking place at the Hilton Anatole Hotel in Dallas on Friday, January 10, 2025.

The HEARTS Award is a special honor that began as an entire event during the pandemic. In June of 2021, the annual ARTS Awards were replaced by a one-time special event called the HEARTS Awards held in partnership and solidarity with twelve leading industry organizations to honor companies and individuals that have shown outstanding leadership, empathy, and service during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the return of the ARTS Awards to an in-person event, organizations were invited to nominate a worthy organization for a HEARTS Award as a special award presented at the ARTS Awards. This year, the ARTS Awards Committee selected the H Foundation as the honoree to receive the award for raising funds and awareness of cancer.

“The H Foundation truly deserves the HEARTS Award this year because of their sustained, unwavering commitment to funding innovative cancer research,” said Cindy Morris, president and CEO of Dallas Market Center. “Their impactful community engagement and dedication brings hope to those affected by cancer, but also inspires us all to come together in the fight against this disease.”

Added Sharon Davis, executive director of ART: “The H Foundation’s efforts in advancing cancer research and providing support to those in need exemplify the spirit of the HEARTS Award. Their initiatives not only lead to groundbreaking discoveries, but also foster a sense of community and hope.”

The H Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds and awareness for cancer research. Since 2001, The H Foundation has raised over $13 million to support groundbreaking research initiatives that lead to effective treatments and, ultimately, cures for various types of cancer. One of the organization’s signature charity events is the annual Goombay Bash party fundraiser, which brings together community members for an evening of entertainment, food, and friendship, all in support of cancer research. Through this event and other fundraising efforts, the H Foundation fosters collaboration among researchers, healthcare professionals, and advocates. The H Foundation continues to strive to make a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer.

“It is an honor to receive the HEARTS Award. This recognition not only highlights The H Foundation’s commitment to advancing cancer research through our partnership with the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, but also reinforces the importance of our community,” said John Rot, President at The H Foundation. “We are grateful for the support of our partners and advocates who share our vision. Together we will continue to strive for innovative solutions that bring hope to those affected by cancer.”

In addition to the HEARTS Award, there are dozens of categories of awards being presented at the ARTS Awards to retailers, manufacturers, designers and sales representatives. Special award categories include the Academy of Achievement award, being presented to Andy Singer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Visual Comfort & Co., and the Trailblazer Award, being presented to Lois del Negro, one of the founders and owners of Global Views. All 35th ARTS Awards finalists can be viewed at https://dallasmarketcenter.com/ArtsAwards/finalists/.

Reservations for the ARTS Awards open now open. Tickets will be $170 for ART members and $200 for non-members. Discounted rates for full tables of (8) and (10) guests are also available. Reservations for the gala will close on Friday, January 3rd. For more information visit https://dallasmarketcenter.com/ArtsAwards/reservations/

Media and organization sponsors for the 35th ARTS Awards are: Home Accents Today; Gifts & Decorative Accessories; HFN; Designer’s Today; Furniture/Today; Home Textiles Today; Aspire; Furniture, Lighting, & Décor; Interior Design Society; Luxe Interiors + Design; Modern Luxury; PaperCity; Business of Home; Décor News Now, and Sustainable Furnishings Council.

Dallas Market Center and ART, the creative home furnishings network, announce that Lois del Negro will accept the Trailblazer Award for her significant accomplishments in the home furnishing industry at the 35^th ARTS Awards, taking place at the Hilton Anatole Hotel in Dallas on Friday, January 10, 2025. The Trailblazer Award is a special award recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and pioneering efforts in the industry.

Del Negro was one of the founders and owners of Global Views, where she held many roles in the company and, over the years, led strategic growth initiatives, built strong relationships with clients and suppliers, and fostered their international business. From her first job as a home furnishings buyer at Macy’s to building a solid team at Global Views, Lois has inspired, motivated, and mentored many individuals in the home industry.

“Lois is a true Trailblazer in the home furnishings industry,” said Cindy Morris, president and CEO of Dallas Market Center. “Her leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence not only elevated Global Views, but also inspired those around her to strive for greatness.”

Added Sharon Davis, executive director of ART: “Lois’s commitment to mentoring future leaders and her impactful work with the industry and community show an innovative spirit who truly deserves to be the first to receive the Trailblazer Award.”

In addition to her professional achievements, she is actively involved in the home furnishings community. She served as President of ART (the Home Accents Industry Association), where she helped shape the organization’s strategy and enhanced member engagement. Her commitment to mentorship and community service is exemplified through her work with Dwell with Dignity, a charity that supports homeless single mothers, the yearly ART service projects, as well as her efforts to establish hospitality venues at major trade shows.

“Receiving the Trailblazer Award is a profound honor that reflects not just my journey, but the collective efforts of those I’ve worked with along the way. I believe in the power of mentorship and community, and I’m dedicated to fostering growth and innovation in the home furnishings industry. This award inspires me to continue championing positive change and supporting others in their paths to success,” said Lois del Negro.

In addition to the Trailblazer Award, there are dozens of categories of awards being presented at the ARTS Awards to retailers, manufacturers, designers and sales representatives. Special award categories include HEARTS Award, and the Academy of Achievement award, being presented to Andy Singer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Visual Comfort & Co. All 35th ARTS Awards finalists can be viewed at https://dallasmarketcenter.com/ArtsAwards/finalists/.

Reservations for the ARTS Awards open now open. Tickets will be $170 for ART members and $200 for non-members. Discounted rates for full tables of (8) and (10) guests are also available. Reservations for the gala will close on Friday, January 3rd. For more information visit https://dallasmarketcenter.com/ArtsAwards/reservations/

Media and organization sponsors for the 35th ARTS Awards are: Home Accents Today; Gifts & Decorative Accessories; HFN; Designer’s Today; Furniture/Today; Home Textiles Today; Aspire; Furniture, Lighting, & Décor; Interior Design Society; Luxe Interiors + Design; Modern Luxury; PaperCity; Business of Home; Décor News Now, and Sustainable Furnishings Council.

Dallas Market Center and ART, the creative home furnishings network, have announced that Andy Singer, Founder and CEO of Visual Comfort & Co., will receive the Academy of Achievement honor at the 35th ARTS Awards taking place at the Hilton Anatole Hotel in Dallas on Friday, January 10, 2025. The ARTS Awards, presented annually during the Dallas Total Home & Gift Market, celebrate preeminent manufacturers, retailers, interior designers, product designers, and sales representatives.

“For decades, Andy’s dedication and passion for the lighting industry has been inspiring to witness,” said Cindy Morris, president and CEO of Dallas Market Center. “His commitment to quality and innovation truly sets him apart as an industry leader.”

Sharon Davis, executive director of ART, added: “It’s an honor to present the Academy of Achievement to someone who has transformed the lighting industry through his visionary leadership and dedication to design excellence.”

In addition to the Academy of Achievement, dozens of category awards will be presented at the ARTS Awards to retailers, manufacturers, designers, and sales representatives. The 35th ARTS Awards finalists can be found at www.dallasmarketcenter.com/ArtsAwards/finalists/. Reservations for the ARTS Awards open October 2nd. Tickets will be $170 for ART members and $200 for non-members, with discounted rates available for full tables of eight and ten guests.

Sponsors for the 35th ARTS Awards include media and organization partners such as Home Accents Today, Gifts & Decorative Accessories, HFN, Designer’s Today, Furniture/Today, Home Textiles Today, Aspire, Furniture, Lighting & Décor, Interior Design Society, Luxe Interiors + Design, Modern Luxury, PaperCity, Business of Home, Décor News Now, and the Sustainable Furnishings Council.

Dallas Market Center and ART, the creative home furnishings network, have announced the judges for the 35th ARTS Awards, taking place in Dallas on Friday, January 10, 2025 at the Hilton Anatole Hotel. The ARTS Awards, presented annually during the Dallas Total Home & Gift Market, celebrates preeminent manufacturers, retailers, interior designers, product designers, and sales representatives.

A panel of distinguished judges will choose winners based on submissions, which may include examples of product development, marketing, merchandising, company differentiation, or professional information, consistent on their selected category. In the Fall, judges will gather in Dallas for two days to review each submission from individuals and/or companies. After the judges complete their process, a designated accounting firm will count and secure the scores until the winners are revealed at the ARTS Awards gala.

The 35th ARTS Awards judges are:

Michela O’Connor Abrams, Board Chair, Sustainable Furnishings Council and Sustainable Furnishings Educational Fund. Michela exclusively serves as the Green Award judge and reviews only the manufacturing finalists’ submissions. Michela is the Founder of MOCA+, which focuses on integrating design thinking and leadership into business strategy. Former CEO of Dwell Media, she grew the brand from a startup to an international name. With experience at IDG, Softbank, McGraw Hill, Ziff Davis, and Future Media, she has led companies through growth and turnaround phases. Michela serves on the board of Arcbazar and advises several companies, including Turkel Design and Nebia. She is a sought-after speaker on leadership, design, and media.

Leon Goetz, Founder & CEO, Goetz Inc. Leon Goetz is the founder and CEO of Goetz Inc., a multi-line sales and marketing agency and long-time exhibitor at Dallas Market Center. Since 1984, Goetz Inc. has represented a diverse range of luxury brands in gift, home decor, tabletop, holiday, and fashion categories, occupying over 45,000 square feet of showrooms. While the agency focuses on sales growth, service excellence, and strong vendor/retailer partnerships, Leon’s passion lies in consulting on product development, design, and presentation for both new and established brands.

Jaclyn Hirschhaut, Executive Director, International Casual Furniture Association. Jaclyn C. “Jackie” Hirschhaut is Vice President of Public Relations and Marketing at the American Home Furnishings Alliance and Executive Director of the International Casual Furnishings Association. She oversees marketing and media relations at AHFA and leads the outdoor furnishings sector at ICFA. Formerly Editor-in-Chief of Elegant Bride and an award-winning journalist, Jackie has a background in retail and product development. She holds degrees in journalism and marketing and is active with the Public Relations Society of America and various industry boards.

Jaye Anna Mize, Creative Director, Home Interiors, Fashion Snoops. Jaye Anna Mize is the VP of Advisory and Partnerships at Fashion Snoops, a top trend-forecasting agency. With over 18 years of experience, Mize excels in home and interior design trends, leveraging AI and tech-savvy strategies to uncover market opportunities. She has worked with major brands like Unilever, Kohl’s, and Target, and is a recognized thought leader, speaking at events such as High Point Market Authority and Maison & Objet. Mize leads teams in aligning design, merchandising, and marketing to emerging consumer behaviors and future trends, including collaborations with Drew and Jonathan Scott and BuzzFeed’s Tasty Product Line.

Khoi Vo, CEO, American Society of Interior Designers. Khoi Vo, IIDA, CIDA, IDEC, IDECF, brings over 20 years of experience in interior design, architecture, and education. A former leader at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Vo founded Studio Four Los Angeles and Khoi Vo Design, where he led design projects and operations. He has taught and held leadership roles at California State University, SCAD, and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Vo is a distinguished member of several industry organizations, including the Interior Design Educator Council Foundation and ASID. He has received notable awards such as the 2015 CIDA Award for Excellence in Teaching and the 2017-18 Design Intelligence Top 25 Most Admired Educators. Vo holds a BA in design-focused architecture from the University of Florida and a Master of Architecture from the Southern California Institute of Architecture.

Erin Weir, Co-founder, The Pearl Collective. Erin Weir is the co-founder and VP of Sales & Marketing at Pearl Collective, an interior design consultancy that boosts profits for designers, architects, and creatives. Known for her dynamic leadership and marketing expertise, Erin enhances every client interaction and is dedicated to advancing the interior design industry. She educates designers on profitable practices, leadership, and productivity, advises manufacturers on better business partnerships, and helps clients build confidence through effective processes and a team-oriented approach.

All 35th ARTS Awards finalists may be viewed here. Reservations for the ARTS Awards open on October 2. Tickets will be $170 for ART members and $200 for non-members. Discounted rates for full tables of (8) and (10) guests are also available.

Media and organization sponsors for the ARTS Awards are: Home Accents Today; Gifts & Decorative Accessories; HFN; Designer’s Today; Furniture/Today; Home Textiles Today; Aspire; Furniture, Lighting, & Décor; Interior Design Society; Luxe Interiors + Design; Modern Luxury; PaperCity; Business of Home; Décor News Now, and Sustainable Furnishings Council.