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Get to know a few of our past Scholarship Winners!
2022 Scholarship Winners
Madeline (Maddie) Cognasso
As a collaborative individual who loves to create, I knew in high school that I wanted to pursue a career in design. After taking business courses and competing in Hospitality and Tourism management competitions, I felt extremely excited about pursuing a career in hospitality, an industry that is dedicated to creating meaningful experiences for guests.
As an Interior Design student, I have become deeply enthusiastic about creating spaces that are immersive, imaginative, and inviting. Combining my love for travel, hospitality and creativity has led me to commercial interior design, specifying in spaces such as hotels and restaurants. I am currently a sophomore and have two more years until I earn my BFA in Interior Design through the George Fox University Interior Design Program.
Some of my favorite memories with my family have taken place in hospitality spaces such as restaurants, hotels, theme parks and more. Because of this, I want to create special places that people can cherish and appreciate. Specifically, I have wanted to work for Disney theme parks and resorts since I was kid based on my experience growing up in the parks. My family vacations were incredible by sharing space with my family members in extremely memorable locations and settings.
I am enthusiastic about creating spaces that people can enjoy because nothing is as meaningful to me as positively impacting other people. Upon graduation in 2024, my goal is to work for Disney as an Imagineer, a designer for Disney parks, hotels, and other projects. It has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember to be a part of Disney, designing the magical spaces that Disney is so famous for.
In my remaining years as an Interior Design student at George Fox, I will be working towards developing a portfolio of projects featuring hospitality design, specifically focused on spaces such as hotels and restaurants. I am interested in experience-based design that transports people to imaginative places and makes them feel immersed in whatever space they are experiencing. As an active member of the design program at George Fox, I am a consistent volunteer, supportive peer, and encouraging Leader. I enjoy serving on volunteer trips that help our community through design.
Sierra Rothlisberger
A lover of design since middle school, even through growing up in a very small town, the last seven years have been full of enriching experiences of the built environment. Even in high school, I participated in two mentorships and an independent study to further my knowledge of the discipline. There wasn’t a single event that led me to interior design; it was more of a slow-growing love that has developed into a strong passion.
Since being at Washington State University, I’ve grown to respect the world of architecture in ways I had never considered; the beauty, combined with reasoning, is something few truly appreciate. Involving myself in clubs, such as American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), and work experiences within the School of Design & Construction, such as being a student ambassador for the ID program, has caused me to become a leader within our program. I’ve been asked to give presentations of my portfolio to younger classes, tours of our buildings to prospective students, and to become a mentor to another student. I have also aimed to contribute to design in a greater sense through my employment at WSU’s Integrated Design & Construction Lab as a research assistant. In the last year, I have been the co-lead of a research project on senior living. Through this, we have gathered and analyzed data surrounding comfort, health and safety, and interfaces within senior complexes, leading the way to new endeavors such as guidelines for future building senior communities or a collaborative project with mechanical/electrical engineers to create an accessible thermostat. I’ve completed a minor in construction management to better understand architecture as a whole, and am currently studying for the LEED Green Associate exam. This summer, an internship at a very successful and developed architecture firm will allow me to contribute my ideas to a greater team and expand my knowledge of what design encompasses.
After graduation next year, I would love to work for Gensler. I think my values align well with theirs, and love their focus on sustainability. Eventually, my long-term goal is to return to school to get my masters in interior design, enabling me to teach at a university. The professors from our program have had a profound effect on my college and architecture experience, so I would love to invest my time into another generation.
Anissa Ying Chak
I grew up in Hong Kong, a multi-cultural society featuring great emphasis on contemporary architecture such as Functionalism, Modernism, Postmodernism, Dynamic. I started a journey studying in the U.S. when I was fourteen. With English being my third language, and with my disadvantage from dyslexia, this was definitely not an easy transition. However, I forced myself to change all of my devices’ primary language from Chinese to English and read lots of English books to improve my reading skill.
With my journey as an architecture student in the Washington State University, I have been involved in different kinds of organizations to learn from different aspects. I’ve had the opportunity to meet with a vast diversity of people, leading me to the conclusion that every individual has their own specific needs and looks for different accommodations in architectural design. I will continue my journal as a Master of Architecture student at University of Washington. I believe my life experiences can help the school grow, as well as becoming a better architect in the future.
2020 Scholarship Winners
Lizbeth Maldonado
My name is Lizbeth Maldonado. My pronouns are she/her/hers and I am a junior majoring in landscape architecture.
Lizbeth Maldonado is a first-generation third year college student in the Landscape Architecture Program at Washington State University. Originally from Michoacán, Mexico, her childhood, and adolescent years were spent surrounded by nature. Seven years ago, Lizbeth’s family moved to the United States for the opportunity at a better education. While this decision was met with the challenges of learning a new language, adapting to a new culture, and facing discrimination, these experiences made her into the person she is today.
Throughout Lizbeth’s college career at WSU, she has served in many leadership roles, such as: Teaching Assistant, mentor for the Multicultural Student Services, member of the Studio Culture Committee, Graphic Director for WSU C.A.S.H.E. Conference, and is in the process of bringing a National Association of Minority Landscape Architects Chapter to the university.
“As a first-generation Mexican college student, one of my main goals is to continue growing within my career as well as advocate for minority people like me, who are often underrepresented in landscape architecture and hospitality fields.”
One of Lizbeth’s goals after graduation is to work for a company that focuses on climate positive designs through Landscape Architecture. Once she finds her dream job, she looks forward to becoming financially independent so that she can give back to her parents who have sacrificed everything for her.
Alayne Zollinger (2020 and 2019 winner)
Alayne Zollinger is currently in her sixth and last year of the seamless Bachelor of Interior Architecture and Design/ Master of Architecture program at the University of Idaho. Throughout her undergraduate and graduate studies, Alayne has been given many wonderful opportunities to submerge and learn from various cultures around the world. With the help of NEWH’s generosity and support over the years, she has been able to study in New Zealand and the United Kingdom as well as conduct research in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, all of which have made an immeasurable impact on her education and future career goals.
“The scholarships I have received from NEWH Northwest has given me the freedom to continue to pursue my studies and international experiences without the weight of financial burden, and because of them I feel confident entering the global design market upon graduation.”
After graduation Alayne intends to begin a career in New Zealand and join a globally minded design firm that employs both interior designers and architects. She will work toward receiving her professional licenses, both in the US and abroad. Alayne has a passion for restorative architecture and community-oriented designs and would love the opportunity to work with a variety of communities and cultures across the globe.
2018 Scholarship Winners
Ashtyn Perlatti
Washington State University / Interior Design
Ashtyn’s major is in interior design at Washington State University.
To learn more about Ashtyn we asked her a few questions:
What is the last book you read?
Make em’ Laugh- a memoir written by Debbie Reynolds. Ever since I saw Singing in the Rain as a little girl, Debbie has been my favorite actress and a lifetime role model of mine.
If you could check into any hotel in the world, what would it be? And why?
Monte Carlo Bay Resort in Monaco. Located on the beautiful shores of southern France, hotels in Monte Carlo are as if Las Vegas and the Bahamas had a baby. Need I say more?
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
I like going on new adventures and planning my future travels to as many places that I can. I also enjoy going for walks and spending time with my adorable Australian Shepherd, Zoey.
Sarah Miranda Rosenthal (2018 and 2019)
Washington State University / Interior Design
Sarah’s major is in interior design at Washington State University.
To learn more about Sarah we asked her a few questions:
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
Every day when I get home from class, I drop my bag first thing and lay down on the floor with two big speakers on either side of
my head to listen to new music. Bathing myself in sound is one of my favorite things to do. I also love to cook. I love to invent in
the kitchen, combine flavors people ordinarily think of asynchronous until they taste them. I love to push the boundaries of what
people accept as normal. In my free time I also love to practice guitar, meditate, teach myself new languages, bike through parts
of Pullman I’ve never explored before – discover new parts of the matrix so to speak. I sketch and watercolor often in my major,
Interior Design, so I’m practicing doing both of those things with my non-dominant hand. Eventually I want to be able to draw
upside down and backwards too!
When I was 17 I captained my high school’s culinary team. My sous chef was a gangster/drug addict whom I’d introduced to
cooking. My goal as captain was never to win culinary competitions, it was to help my sous succeed despite how vehemently he
resisted. I was a female, teetotaling, honors student, I suspect he felt we were opposites and that I couldn’t have his interests at
heart. I coached him tirelessly and learned more from him every day than I was able to teach him. Over time we grew so close
that we helped each other cook even while we competed against each other in a competition for Best Teen Chef in America run
by Maneet
Megan Cosdon
University of Idaho / Interior Design
Megan’s major is in interior design at University of Idaho.
To learn more about Megan we asked her a few questions:
What is the last book you read?
In the Company of Women by Grace Bonney
If you could check into any hotel in the world, what would it be? And why?
Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. It’s not only brilliantly designed and constructed, it’s set in one of the seven natural wonders of the African continent, with minimal to zero physical impact on the site, fauna and flora.
Where would you most like to live someday?
Anywhere and everywhere that my future tiny home can take me.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
Practicing yoga, playing with my dogs, and spoiling my nieces.
Priscilla Duong
Washington State University / Interior Design
Priscilla’s major is in interior design at Washington State University. On campus, Priscilla is actively involved in, Alpha Rho Chi Sostratus, the American Society of Interior Designers, the International Interior Design Association, and NEWH. She hopes to pursue a career in commercial design with a focus on WELL building design.
To learn more about Priscilla we asked her a few questions:
What is one thing nobody would ever know about you?
Theme Parks are amazing and fun, but I will adamantly refuse to go on a rollercoaster.
Where would you most like to live someday?
I think I would enjoy living in the Bay Area where I grew up, but I will go wherever.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
I enjoy crafting and finding various projects to keep myself busy, right now I’m immersed in Bullet Journaling.
2017 Scholarship Winners
Gabrielle Diebner (2016 and 2017)
University of Idaho / Interior Design
Gabrielle’s major is in interior design at the University of Idaho.
To learn more about Gabrielle we asked her a few questions:
What was the last book you read?
Everything, Everything… It’s really good, I’d recommend reading it over see the movie!
What is the thing nobody would ever know about you?
I did baton twirling for a year in 3rd grade
Tell us about your personal/Professional Background.
I am entering my senior year at UI and am currently interning with Cuningham Group Architecture in Las Vegas. I am working in their Play Market which focuses on hospitality, namely casinos and resorts. This summer I have been working on putting together control Sample Binders and writing specifications for a casino project finishing up this summer!
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
I love exploring the great outdoors and going on adventures! This summer I took a road trip with friends and visited the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park, two things checked off my bucket list!
Madalyn Pearson
Washington State University / Hospitality Management
Madalyn’s major is in Hospitality Management at Washington State University.
To learn more about Madalyn we asked her a few questions:
What is the last book you read?
I am currently reading The Boys in the Boat, by Daniel Brown. It’s beyond fascinating to read about a sport that I knew next to nothing about – rowing, set in an area that I grew up – in an age long before my time. I absolutely love it so far, even despite the fact that it centers around the University of Washington, my university’s rival! Go Cougs!
If you could check into any hotel in the world, what would it be? And why?
This is a tough one but if I had to choose just one I would say the Ritz Paris. I visited Paris for the first time following my graduation from high school and absolutely fell in love with the city. The Ritz is iconic and classic, sophisticated and historic – and to me represents all things Parisian. Furthermore, being a Hospitality major with a minor in French, it appeals to both of my passions!
What is your favorite caffeinated beverage?
Having grown up so close to Seattle I definitely have to say coffee. I started drinking it when I was around the age of 13 and now I can’t go a day without it. Sometimes I need more than one cup a day!
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
When not at school or work I love to spend my time traveling, hiking, eating, and just trying new things. Fortunately, they all tend to go together pretty well!
Shelby Ruiz
Washington State University / Construction Management
Shelby’s major is in interior design at Washington State University with a minor in Construction Management.
To learn more about Shelby we asked her a few questions:
What are some of your favorite hotels, restaurants and spaces in the Pacific Northwest?
I love spaces that capitalize on the location of its placement area while respecting the culture of its people:
The Coeur d’Alene Resort, Coeur d’Alene, ID: Features great views onto the lake, and walkable access to downtown nightlife including restaurants and shops. The Maxwell Hotel, Seattle, WA: Reacting to the artistic culture of Seattle and its prime location near the ballet, Space Needle, and Experience Music Project, this hotel is colorful and vibrant like the people of the PNW.
What is the last book you read?
Buffering: Tales of a Life Fully Loaded, Hannah Hart
What is the thing nobody would ever know about you?
I live immersed in a jungle of both indoor and outdoor plants, that slowly have taken over my heart (and apartment). There is nothing better than the smell of a tomato plant, or waking up to dappled morning light from the trees adjacent to me.
If you could check into any hotel in the world, what would it be and why?
As someone who can appreciate sitting on a beach and watching water, I have always wanted to travel to see the resorts surrounding the Mediterranean. Not any in particular, but to see and compare the styles of each as they serve their travelers. A beautiful getaway sounds great to anyone, right?
Tell us about your personal/professional background.
I have been toying around with graphic design for nearly 7 years now, from being a high school yearbook editor, then a custom graphic specialist as I was able to get a job, and now as a university intern in publications. Visual communication has brought me to design, allowing me to conceptually develop as a professional with a care to specialize in geriatric care and improve the quality of life through biophilia. I want to take my interest in graphics, plants, and psychology into design to make a diverse impact.
Where would you most like to live someday?
I think it is safe to say I have an affinity for trees and mountains, and whether that leaves me in the PNW, or along somewhere similar, I will be happy.
What is your favorite caffeinated beverage?
Venti, half ice, cold brew with a pump of vanilla and a little room.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
I like to go to the driving range and practice yoga. I garden, make meals, and am a chronic re-arranger of furniture.
Lindsey Wenzel
Marylhurst University / Interior Design
Lindsey’s major is in interior design at Marylhurst University.
What are some of your favorite hotels, restaurants and spaces in the Pacific Northwest?
I love Ace Hotels for their sleek, fun designs and affordability. I also really love the interior at the Bit House Saloon in Portland. It’s a great space!
What is the thing nobody would ever know about you?
I am a total math nerd. I was on math team in high school and briefly considered becoming an actuary.
If you could check into any hotel in the world, what would it be and why?
I’ve always wanted to stay at the Chateau Marmont in LA. It’s a Hollywood icon with a long history and you never know who you will run into there.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
I enjoy spending time with my two dogs and husband, cooking and going to see live music. I also love traveling when I have time and money for it!
2016 Scholarship Winners
Erica Albertson (2015 and 2016)
University of Idaho / Interior Design
What are some of your favorite hotels, restaurants, and spaces in the Pacific Northwest?
a.   The Davenport Hotel – Spokane. The integration of and inspiration from several historical periods. You instantly feel like royalty upon entry.
b.   Four Seasons Hotel – Seattle. Love the use of neutrals and line to create a contemporary but comfortable and welcoming lobby.
c.   Seattle Public Library – Seattle. Architecture at its finest! Not hospitality, but the play with light, angles and modernism… What’s not to love?
d.   Barbacoa – Boise. The Wine Bottle Vault entryway. Pink wall tiles in the women’s restroom. The entire restaurant is the perfect balance of sophisticated and glam.
e.   Jackson Hole Airport Lounge – Jackson Hole. Its fatal flaw is that it isn’t in the PNW! Hair on hide sofa, fireplace, slatted wood ceiling. I’ve never wanted a 3 hour layover so badly.
If you could check into any hotel in the world, what would it be? And why?
Quinta Azul – Rio de Janeiro. So quaint, cozy, and breakfast with monkeys?! Not a fancy resort, but rather in in the culture of one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Where would you most like to live someday?
The Pacific Northwest. My plans never work out, so I’ve stopped making them, but the PNW will forever have my heart.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
Building anything and everything. My love for construction is a close second to my love for design.
Gabrielle A. Diebner (2016 and 2017)
University of Idaho / Interior Design
What are some of your favorite hotels, restaurants, and spaces in the Pacific Northwest?
I recently visited Starbucks Headquarters and thought it was amazing! I love the newer trends and natural yet modern look they are infiltrating in their corporate and restaurant designs. A small new restaurant in Moscow called Tapped reminds me of the same modern rustic look of Starbucks with its own small town charm. I also think the Davenport Hotel in Spokane is interesting in that is has maintained so much of its original history and personality that you get to experience a variety of spaces and styles throughout the hotel.
Where would you most like to live someday?
Honestly I would love to stay in Seattle. My family is here and I can see myself one day raising my own family in the suburbs of this beautiful city. I love the water, the mountains, and trees that make Seattle’s landscape breathtaking and the energy in the people who live here. It is an active, prosperous, and invigorating city and I love being a part of it. Not to mention I am a hard core Seahawks and Mariner fan, win or lose, I will always support my team.
What is your favorite caffeinated beverage?
A chai tea latte is my go to all day any day.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
I love spending time with my friends and family, from coffee dates to hiking, to shopping or watching movies, basically anything adventurous and
memory making. I also enjoy blasting out with music and either journaling, drawing, or dancing while I’m in my element.
Sativa Jaeger (2014 and 2016)
The Art Institute of Portland / Interior Design
What are some of your favorite hotels, restaurants, and spaces in the Pacific Northwest?
My favorite hotel is one that I came across during an industry event, as a student volunteer. Hotel Vintage in Portland, it is a boutique hotel which offers a great guest experience and there is a story and purpose behind every selection.
What is one thing nobody would ever know about you?
I am a four time state champion bowler.
If you could check into any hotel in the world, what would it be? And why?
My little sister dreams of going to Iceland, and in that I came across a hotel called Hotel Range. It is known for being the best place to watch the
northern lights. Their suites are themed for different countries, heaven wants to stay in the Antarctica room which is very modern and full of furs.
Tell us about your personal/professional background.
I have worked in the industry since I was 17, I started with an internship at a small town design firm. I now work as a cabinetry designer for Northwoods, working alongside many builders and clients in their journey for creating a home.
Where would you most like to live someday?
I don’t plan on leaving the northwest, it’s beautiful here and there is so much to do.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at school or work?
With my sisters diagnosis we have made a pact to try something new every weekend: last week it was ape caves this weekend it’s rafting on the
Deschutes river.
Victoria Pitroff
Seattle Pacific University / Interior Design
What are some of your favorite hotels, restaurants, and spaces in the Pacific Northwest?
This could be a lengthy answer, but I’ll try and keep it short! My favorite hotels in the PNW include Palladian, Ace Hotel, Adrift Hotel and Spa, Inn at Langley, and Jupiter Hotel. My all time favorite restaurants where I love both the restaurant design and food include the Walrus and the Carpenter, The London Plane, Bar Sajor, Bar Melusine, The Fat Hen, Bröder, and San Fermo. Some good hangout spaces are Marzocco Café inside of KEXP at the Seattle Center, the Downtown Seattle Public Library, and Waterfall Garden Park in Pioneer Square.
If you could check into any hotel in the world, what would it be? And why?
Oooh, this is a tough question, but I would have to say the Juvet Hotel located in Norway. I was first introduced to this hotel by its feature in the movie Ex Machina. The entire movie all I could think was, “This is the place of my dreams!!”. The gorgeous modern structure is located in a village in rural Norway, and its design seeks to be as unobtrusive as possible to not detract from the surrounding natural beauty of the mountains and river. The design itself is your quintessential Scandinavian minimalism – floor to ceiling windows, lots of natural textures, and open spaces with minimal, but tastefully curated, furniture and accessories. As if this place couldn’t get any better, each hut has its own private sauna and spa! After I found out that it was not only located in one of my favorite countries, but also was a hotel that I could rent, it became a life goal to get to this dreamy place one day.
Where would you most like to live someday?
Paris! My husband and I spent 10 days there last summer, and I didn’t even know it was possible to fall in love with a city as much as I did! I loved the effortless beauty of the city, the relaxed culture, the amazing architecture and interiors, and the scrumptious food we had at every meal. I felt so inspired by everything I encountered. My husband and I have been scheming ever since about how we will one day move there!
What is your favorite caffeinated beverage?
Being a Seattle native, I think I’m obligated to say just a good, strong cup of coffee! More specifically, however, I love café au lait made with Lighthouse Coffee – my favorite local roaster!