Launching the Gary Hewson Memorial Award
The Gary Hewson Memorial Award was created in memory of an individual with a big personality and even bigger heart; who touched the lives of many in Ontario’s interior design community.
The award will be awarded each year to one interior design student from each ARIDO-recognized school who has shown exemplary peer mentorship/ leadership and volunteerism in the interior design industry.
Who was Gary?
Gary Hewson, ARIDO was an Interior Designer and former President of ARIDO (2005/6) who was awarded the title of “Fellow” based on his volunteerism.
Gary worked tirelessly during his time as ARIDO President and was thrilled to be a driving force in advancing the recognition of the Interior Design profession.
His dedication to volunteerism and mentoring peers in the profession is the driving force behind this award.
Why participate?
This is an opportunity for students who actively volunteer in the interior design community (whether at school, through ARIDO or elsewhere); and provide mentorship and/or leadership to their peers to be recognized for their hard work and dedication.
Award winners will receive one ticket to the ARIDO Awards Gala, Thursday, October 5th, where they will get to sit at the Gary Hewson table with other award winners, enjoy an amazing meal, watch the awards ceremony, and network with hundreds of designers and industry professionals.
Students attending from beyond the GTA will have their travel and one night’s accommodation covered by a sponsor.
Award Criteria
Candidate must be a Student member of ARIDO, enrolled in the Interior Design (or equivalent) program at an ARIDO-recognized school:
Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology
Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning
Fanshawe College of Applied Arts and Technology
Georgian College of Applied Arts and Technology
Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning
OCAD University
Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)
Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning
St. Clair College of Applied Arts and Technology
Yorkville University (formerly RCC Institute of Technology)
Candidates can submit their own nomination or be nominated.
Nominees and nominators must complete and submit the application form, along with short experience descriptions, and references by the deadline, July 20th, 2023.
Winners will be notified in advance of the Gala.
