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IHFRA Announces 2025 Strategic Plan and Leadership Updates

Furniture World News Desk on 4/17/2025


The International Home Furnishings Representatives Association (IHFRA) has announced its 2025 Strategic Plan, welcomed incoming President Cynthia Heathcoe, and marked the one-year anniversary of Executive Director Steve Allegrezza.

The updated strategic plan focuses on strengthening member engagement, increasing visibility within the industry, and expanding market presence through partnerships with vendor sponsors, aligned associations, and market centers.

“By working closely with vendor sponsors, aligned associations, and market centers across the country, we aim to provide high-impact opportunities and ensure IHFRA remains visible, relevant, and inclusive to all sales professionals,” said Steve Allegrezza, IHFRA Executive Director.

New initiatives within the plan include the LINK Ambassador Program, connecting members with experienced mentors, and a pilot program launching local chapters to increase regional engagement. Additionally, the association is expanding its exclusive member benefits and savings programs.

Reflecting on his first year in the role, Allegrezza noted, “As I reach my first anniversary, I’m filled with pride and a deep respect for the rich history at the heart of this organization. With over 90 years of legacy behind us, IHFRA is more than an association—it’s a home for the sales professionals who are the critical link, the life blood of our industry.” He added, “In the past year, we focused on ‘Purpose and Progress’. With the support of an engaged and empowering IHFRA Board of Directors and an Executive Committee, we developed our Strategic Plan, by working to evolve and expand our mission statement, redefine our core pillars, update our branding, and modernize the systems that will help carry this organization into the future.”

Allegrezza’s appointment continues a family legacy, with his father, Ray Allegrezza—former Executive Director—now serving as IHFRA Advisor, Advocate, and Director of Content & Events. “I feel deeply grateful to celebrate this milestone and continue a legacy my father helped shape. Looking ahead, I’m excited to build on that foundation—to create new opportunities, foster deeper engagement, and ensure that every IHFRA member feels supported, seen, and valued in their work,” Steve Allegrezza said.

In his current role, Ray Allegrezza continues to oversee events, develop partnerships, and engage with members through editorial content and “The Last Word” podcast. His involvement supports continuity and ongoing outreach for the organization.

IHFRA’s 2025 Board of Directors includes Steve Allegrezza (Executive Director), Michele Elliott (Operations Coordinator), Nolan Reynolds (Membership & Content Coordinator), and Ray Allegrezza (Director of Content & Events). The Executive Committee comprises Chairman Wendy Buzzard, Vice President Kimberly Wheat, 2nd Vice President Samantha Simonton, Secretary/Treasurer Brent Jones, Membership Chair Heather Bolick, and District Chairs Lane Brundieck (Midwest), Neil Friedman (West), Tommy Leflein (Northeast), and Todd Gerdes (South). Cynthia Heathcoe was recently named President.

“Cynthia is a leader who leads with heart. She listens, she collaborates, and she brings out the best in those around her. I couldn’t be more excited to partner with her in 2025,” said Steve Allegrezza.

Heathcoe has contributed to several IHFRA programs, including the LINK Ambassador Program and the Lead and Learn Webinar Series, and has served as co-chair of both the Education and Mentorship Committees. “IHFRA has always been more than just a professional organization—it’s a family. As we face rapid changes in our industry, I’m honored to lead with a focus on connection, support, and forward momentum. Together, we’ll honor the legacy of those who came before us while forging new paths for the next generation of reps,” Heathcoe said.

Spring High Point Market Programming

During the April 2025 High Point Market, IHFRA will host several events for members and market attendees:

  • Thursday, April 24: Market Kick-Off Party and All-Stars Celebration in partnership with FurnitureDealer.net, FurnishNearMe, and High Point Exhibition.
  • April 25–27: Daily Grab n’ Go Breakfasts (no RSVP required) and Complimentary Headshots for members and guests.
  • Healthcare Appointments: Offered by America’s Healthcare Experts for members seeking additional resources.

IHFRA’s Market Lounge, located at IHFC Main Building, M001-LL, will be available for members throughout Market as a resource center and meeting space. “Think of the IHFRA as your High Point home base meets Market lounge, with a stocked fridge, a bevy of snacks, and a conference room available by request for collaboration and strategy sessions,” said Steve Allegrezza.

Fall High Point Market Preview: 2025 Furniture Industry Awards Gala

Looking ahead, IHFRA will host the 29th Annual Furniture Industry Awards Gala (FIAG) on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Qubein Conference Center and Arena. Themed “Mission Possible,” the event will recognize industry professionals for their contributions in areas such as innovation, service, and leadership.

2025 FIAG Honorees

  • Retailer of the Year: Furniture Mart
  • Pillar of the Industry: Steve Riley
  • Icon Award: Mark Phillips, Phillips Collection
  • Distinguished Service Award: Matt Keepers
  • Legacy Rep Award: Ted Weisbach
  • Rising Star Award: Meghan Crandall

To purchase tickets, sponsor the event, or place a congratulatory ad, visit https://ihfra.org/fiag-2025.

 

About IHFRA - https://ihfra.org/who-we-are/
At IHFRA, our purpose is clear: to empower, support, and advocate for our members in the home furnishings industry.

Headquartered in the furniture capital of the world, High Point, North Carolina, IHFRA is a member-based, not-for-profit 501(C)(6) trade association committed to the continuous growth and success of our members.As the industry evolves, so do we, embracing new methods of networking, education, and advocacy. IHFRA stands as a cornerstone of professionalism, productivity, and profitability for home furnishings representatives, embodying the principles on which we were founded while boldly charting a course toward a dynamic and empowered future. For more information, visit ihfra.org.