WithIt, the women's leadership development network serving the home and furnishings industries, announced that it will sponsor a Student Mentoring Day April 21 from 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at High Point Market (Media Center), followed by a special presentation and lunch at 11:45 a.m. in the Natuzzi showroom, 130 West Commerce Ave.
About 80 college students majoring in furniture design, interior design, business and marketing will participate in the spring event. The schools to be represented are: Appalachian State University, Auburn University, East Carolina University, Fashion Institute of Technology, High Point University, Kendall College of Art and Design, Meredith College, North Carolina State University, Randolph Community College, Savannah College of Art and Design and Winthrop University.
"Securing talent is an important economic competition, and it's critical to draw people into real life, face-to- face experiences," said Stephanie Lowder, 2010 WithIt president. "Because WithIt exists to develop leaders, we know there's nothing more encouraging than telling your own story. We invite everyone to be a mentor/guide, tell students about your career and the joy you find within it, and give them access and insight into what others are doing at High Point Market."
Both WithIt members and non-members are encouraged to volunteer to serve as a mentor. Mentors will host an informal round table discussion, as well as either lead a small group of students on showroom tours or allow students to shadow their regular at-market activities throughout the morning. To become a mentor, contact WithIt Executive Director Sara Lyke at withitexecdir@triad.rr.com or 336-880- 2188.
Natuzzi Americas Director of Education and Development Lauren West will conduct a showroom presentation for all participating students at 11:45 a.m., followed by lunch in the company's showroom.
"Reaching out to future furniture industry leaders and influencers who want to learn more about Natuzzi Group's leadership in innovative product design, production and materials is a priority," said West. "We want to share information about our Italian lifestyle focus which is uniquely expressed through our three brands; Natuzzi Italy, Natuzzi Editions and Italsofa. Some business context and the value of competitive intelligence will be addressed."
To learn more about WithIt events to be held during High Point Market, or for membership information, visit www.withit.org.
WithIt, founded in 1997, is a women's leadership development network in the home and furnishings industries. The organization's annual High Point Market Breakfast featuring Alexa Hampton will be held April 18. WithIt Trends/Competitive Intelligence will take place April 19 from 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. at 220 Elm. The annual New York Design Tour is set for May 15- 18, 2010. The professional conference, Leadership2: Take it to the Next Level, is set for Aug. 17-19.
Website: http://www.withit.org