Hailee Carr credits her fellow Interior Design students for the Academic Excellence Award she was selected for.
“Receiving this award is an honor, but I wouldn’t be here without my cohort,” she said. “Their work consistently inspires me, and their innovative ideas push me to elevate my own skills. The learning environment we’ve created together is a huge part of my growth, and I am so grateful for it!”
But the credit goes even deeper: an earlier Interior Design student — a friend from high school who graduated in 2021 — planted the idea of attending Dunwoody in the first place.
Carr said: “I was intrigued by her opportunities at Dunwoody, such as firm tours, networking with professionals in the industry, and the aspect of hands-on learning.”
Prior to enrolling at Dunwoody, Carr earned an associate’s degree from North Hennepin Community College while working as a recruiter for an insurance company and as a server at a local bar and grill. She has always had “a love for art and a passion for creating beautiful things” so choosing to continue her education at Dunwoody was the obvious next step. Because, according to Carr, the Interior Design program, “offers a perfect balance of both the artistic and functional aspects of design.”
More specifically, Carr noted that “Dunwoody encourages experimentation, while also emphasizing technical skills and professionalism.”
That approach combined with the connections she’s made with her peers, instructors, and industry professionals has helped Carr develop into a more confident and skilled designer.
“I have been inspired by my instructors, who have helped me realize that I don’t need to be a perfectionist to create beautiful, functional environments,” she said. “Now I find inspiration in all things around me.”
Carr’s growth and ongoing attitude has not gone unnoticed and contributed to her selection for an Academic Excellence Award.
“Hailee is a talented student who is driven to learn,” said Associate Professor Jessica Ainsworth-Truong. “She continues to grow and learn from others even after she has mastered the skills.”
Ainsworth-Truong also noted that Hailee was heavily involved in the Interior Design program, including participating in the International Interior Design Association’s Fusion + Fashion event, and added: “She is consistent. You can rely on Hailee to always bring her best.”
Carr will look to bring that same dedication and energy to industry. In particular, she said: “In my career, I hope to create spaces that are meaningful and sustainable. I’m particularly passionate about adaptive reuse projects, transforming older structures into vibrant, contemporary spaces that honor their history while serving new purposes. I’m looking forward to contributing to projects that breathe new life into existing buildings and communities.”
Where, when, and how that will happen is still to be determined, but one thing’s for sure: Carr has a vision and is ready to bring her best.