Celebrating the Class of 2026: A Day of Inspiration, Perseverance, and New Beginnings

We were honored to welcome Rona Graf, an IDI graduate from the Class of 2006, as our keynote speaker. Today, Rona is the Founder and Principal Designer of Grace Blu, a nationally recognized full-service interior design studio based in Newport Beach that creates exceptional residential and commercial interiors across the country.

Rona's keynote challenged graduates to embrace the future of interior design while staying grounded in the creativity, critical thinking, and human connection that define great designers. Her insights into the growing role of artificial intelligence in the design industry were both timely and inspiring, encouraging graduates to see AI as a powerful tool that enhances innovation while recognizing that great design will always require imagination, empathy, and expertise.

Perhaps the most meaningful part of Rona's story is that she once sat where our graduates sat on Saturday. Her journey from IDI student to successful business owner demonstrates what is possible with passion, dedication, and perseverance.

Today, Grace Blu continues to invest in the next generation of designers by hiring many IDI graduates—a testament to the quality of education our students receive and the confidence that leading design firms place in our graduates.

In another wonderful full-circle moment, Kayla Smith, recipient of the "Most Likely to Succeed" Award, is already a member of the Grace Blu team. Seeing an accomplished alumna mentor and employ one of our newest graduates beautifully illustrates the lasting connections and opportunities created through the IDI community.

One of the most moving moments of the ceremony came from Vanesa Ramirez, recipient of the "Most Dedicated" Award.

Vanesa began her journey at IDI in 2019 with a dream of becoming an interior designer. Tragically, her education was interrupted after she was involved in a devastating car accident that required her to step away from school for three years while she recovered.

Despite the challenges she faced, Vanesa never gave up on her dream. She returned to IDI determined to finish what she had started, and on Saturday she proudly graduated with her Associate of Arts in Interior Design as a member of the Class of 2026.

In her heartfelt speech, Vanesa reminded everyone in attendance that success is not defined by how quickly you reach your destination, but by your willingness to continue moving toward your passion. She spoke about how pursuing interior design became an important part of her healing journey and expressed gratitude for the encouragement, support, and sense of community she experienced at IDI. Her words were an inspiring reminder that determination and resilience can overcome even the most difficult obstacles.

There was not a dry eye in the room.

Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another. As our graduates enter the profession, they do so equipped with the knowledge, creativity, technical skills, and professional confidence to make a meaningful impact on the design industry.

We are incredibly proud of every graduate in the Class of 2026 and grateful to the families, faculty, alumni, and industry partners who continue to support their success.

Congratulations to the Interior Designers Institute Class of 2026. We look forward to watching your careers flourish and can't wait to see the spaces—and the lives—you will transform through the power of great design.