Therese Kish

Alum Keeps Growing Career With Tri-C Credentials

Two different Tri-C experiences pulled everything together for Therese Kish. As an engaged alumna, not only does she continue to learn new skills for her thriving business, but she’s also sharing her experiences to encourage other Tri-C students to achieve their own success.

After earning a bachelor’s degree and starting an interior design firm, Kish wanted to learn more without missing a beat in her busy life.

“During the 2008-2009 recession, I stepped away from my existing business to secure an interior design degree to complement the business degree I had secured out of high school,” she said. “I was raising my family and growing a business. Tri-C scored high on several factors, including convenience, cost and accommodating my crazy schedule, so I could advance my credentials during the downturned economy.”

In 2012, she earned an Associate of Applied Science in Interior Design. She found that pursuing that credential as a mid-career student was enriched by her younger classmates.

“As a nontraditional student, I enjoyed sharing my experience in the industry with the younger students just starting out in the field,” she said.

She continues to be a guest speaker in the interior design classes every year. 

“Sharing my time and talents with the current interior design students gives me the opportunity to share ‘tips of the trade’ and receive their feedback,” she said.

Her full-service design company, New York Textiles & Interiors, specializes in window treatments, including blinds and shading systems, custom drapery and valances, shutters and motorized products. Her customers are both residential and commercial spaces. She is a member of the Home Builders Association of Greater Cleveland and past president and longtime member of the American Society of Interior Design, Ohio North Chapter. 

“Securing my interior design degree gave me additional confidence and credentials to grow my business as a leader in the industry,” she said.

So, when she felt that, once again, she felt the need to learn more to keep advancing, she returned to Tri-C. 

“My experience with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses was fabulous,” she said. “Even though I had two degrees and a successful business, the puzzle pieces didn’t always fit. This program was comprehensive, collaborative and instructional. The peer learning was the best part of the program. The other scholars were supportive and generous in sharing their experience in business.”

She continues to attend alumni events, network with other program alumni, and attend national summits.

Kish urges others to embrace lifelong learning.

“Securing additional credentials in your desired field of study can only elevate your professionalism and earning power,” she said. “Stay the course and network with your fellow students.”