Table of Contents
The High Point Market Authority’s Diversity Advocacy Alliance has announced the recipients of its 2026 DAA Awards, which will be presented Oct. 18 during Fall High Point Market.
The awards recognize individuals and companies in the home furnishings and design industry for their work in inclusivity, mentorship and community engagement.
Lighting manufacturer Crystorama will receive the Open Arms Award, which recognizes High Point Market exhibitors for creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for showroom visitors and for supporting diversity through employment and marketing practices.
Professional home stager and HGTV personality Nikki Watson will receive the Mentorship Award. The honor recognizes industry leaders who share their knowledge and provide guidance to established and emerging professionals. Watson was cited for her support of designers from underrepresented backgrounds and is also a member of The Design Besties, recipient of the DAA’s 2025 Social Responsibility Award.
Interior designer Ebony Staten, founder of nonprofit organization The Vogue Room Foundation, will receive the Social Responsibility Award for her work supporting minority college students. The award recognizes individuals and companies whose efforts to promote diversity extend beyond the High Point Market experience.
“Our industry is at its best when it reflects the breadth of people, perspectives and creative voices it serves,” said Benjamin Johnston, founder and principal designer of Benjamin Johnston Design and chair of the DAA committee. “This fall, we are proud to celebrate the leaders who are not simply talking about progress, but actively creating it.”
Michel Smith Boyd, interior designer and television personality, will serve as emcee for the awards presentation.
The ceremony and mixer will begin at 5 p.m. October 18 at The Spinning Room at Congdon Yards, 410 W. English Road, High Point, N.C. The awards presentation is scheduled to begin at 5:45 p.m.
The event is open to all Fall High Point Market pass holders.
Established in 2022, the Diversity Advocacy Alliance works to support diversity, equity and inclusion throughout the home furnishings industry and expand representation within the sector and its leadership.
