HPU Interior Design Student Awarded 2024 Havertys Cup
HIGH POINT, N.C., April 12, 2024 – High Point University senior Anastasia Avlonitis, an interior design major from Westchester County, New York, was honored as the 2024 recipient of the Havertys Cup.
The Havertys Cup was established in 1986 by the late Rason Haverty to honor an outstanding graduating senior annually in one of HPU’s home furnishings-related programs. The tribute was created to encourage students to pursue a career in the home furnishings industry.
Avlonitis received a personal replica of the Havertys Cup and a $3,000 award. Her name will be engraved on the base of the Havertys Cup, which is on permanent display in the library of Norton Hall on HPU’s campus.
“It was very unexpected for me. I was very surprised,” said Avlonitis. “Along with that, I am very grateful to all the faculty and staff here at the David R. Hayworth School of Arts and Design just for acknowledging my hard work. It’s a very rewarding feeling to know that all the efforts that I’ve been putting in for the last four years are being recognized by my mentors. I wouldn’t have gotten as far as I have without them, and I’m excited to see what’s more to come for me in the future with my career.”
Avlonitis developed a passion for interior design at a young age as she accompanied her father to his construction business and witnessed projects unfold from demolition to completion. She said choosing HPU was a natural decision, as it provided abundant opportunities within the interior design and furnishings industry.
“Throughout my time at High Point University, I have thrived both academically and professionally thanks to the exceptional guidance of the school’s art and design faculty, propelling my career within the interior design realm,” said Avlonitis. “I am eager to return to New York and embark on a career in the Manhattan area. I am excited to apply my expertise and passion to contribute meaningfully to the dynamic world of interior design.”
Through coursework and internships, Avlonitis acquired a valuable skill set encompassing both design and business while maintaining consistently high grades and securing a spot on the Dean’s List every semester. In her junior year, she had the enriching experience of studying abroad at Lorenzo de Medici in Florence, Italy, earning a certificate in product design and gaining global insights. She also has been actively involved in various campus organizations, including the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority and the National Society of Leadership and Success, and has served as a student chapter officer for the American Society of Interior Designers.
Her work as a sales assistant with Regina Andrew Detroit at the High Point Market since her sophomore year has allowed her to cultivate a robust network of industry connections. As a Presidential Scholar and Creative Arts Fellow, Avlonitis had the opportunity to explore the art and design field through collaborating with peers and fostering connections. She is also a finalist for the Golden Laurel Award granted by the David R. Hayworth School of Arts and Design.
Havertys Furniture has hired a number of previous winners of the Havertys Cup, giving them their first full-time jobs in the home furnishings industry.
“We love supporting the industry, and we feel like High Point University is a big part of not only the design community but the home furnishings industry,” said Scott T. Miles, senior vice president of stores for Havertys Furniture. “Being here in High Point, where so much happens in the furniture industry and has historically, we love to stay connected with the students here as best we can. Supporting this scholarship is just a small token of what Havertys likes to do in being involved in the community and in the student community here.”