HPU Interior Design Student Awarded 2026 Havertys Cup
HIGH POINT, N.C., April 28, 2026 – Anneliese Fullerton, a High Point University senior majoring in interior design, was honored as the 2026 recipient of the Havertys Cup. She received a $3,000 award and a personal replica of the Havertys Cup.
The Havertys Cup was established in 1986 by the late Rawson Haverty to honor annually an outstanding senior in one of HPU’s home furnishings programs. The award was created to encourage students to pursue a career in the home furnishings industry.
Fullerton developed a passion for interior design at an early age as she was inspired by watching home design shows with her mother.
“Those early experiences sparked my curiosity about how spaces influence emotion and personal expression, laying the foundation for my decision to pursue a career in interior design,” said Fullerton, who is from Saddle River, New Jersey. “Throughout my time in the interior design program, I have developed a strong foundation in both conceptual design and technical drawings. I am deeply thankful to my professors in High Point University’s interior design program for their mentorship and continuous support. Their influence has shaped me into the designer I am today.”
Fullerton has explored a wide range of project types and has developed a particular interest in designing residential and hospitality spaces that balance creative vision and practical execution. Through HPU’s study abroad program in Italy, she earned a certificate in Sustainable Furniture Design, where she explored innovative materials, learned about Italian craftsmanship and expanded her global perspective of design.
“Beyond the classroom, I have gained valuable hands-on experience by working with multiple furniture companies during the High Point Market each year, deepening my understanding of the professional design world,” she said. “As a Creative Arts Fellow at HPU, I have broadened my artistic perspective through diverse forms of visual expression. I am also an active member of the International Furnishings and Design Association Student Chapter and High Point University’s Italian Club.”
As Fullerton begins her professional career, she wants to continue exploring residential design firms in the New York metropolitan area, where she can refine her skills and contribute to thoughtfully crafted living environments.
“I also plan to pursue graduate studies in architecture to strengthen my understanding of the built environment,” she said. “I look forward to using what I’ve learned at High Point University’s School of Arts and Design to make a meaningful impact on other people’s lives.”
Havertys Furniture has hired a number of previous Havertys Cup recipients. Nearly half of them have gained their first full-time jobs in the home furnishings industry working for the company.
“We have been a supporter of High Point University since back in the ‘80s,” said Steve Burdette, president and CEO of Havertys Furniture. “It goes back to Mr. Haverty, who thought it was very important to support the industry. They do a wonderful job here, and we’re glad to play a small part in this and be able to celebrate a High Point University student each year with the Havertys Cup.”