The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) San Diego Chapter Elects First Latina President
Bertha Hernandez, the principal designer and owner of BH&A Interior Design, has been elected the first Latina president of the American Society of Interior Designers’ (ASID) San Diego chapter for a one-year term.
Hernandez specializes in residential and commercial interior design at her firm, especially “optimizing the functionality of space.” In 2017, she earned her “Certified Aging in Place Specialist” designation (CAPS). Her extensive educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from California State University, Northridge, with a concentration in Machine Design. She earned her California EIT license – and for her senior design project – she worked on a revolutionary new concept called “the hybrid car,” where she served as configuration specialist using SDRC, a cutting-edge 3-D modeling software. That specialty allowed her to secure her first job in the aircraft industry after graduation, where she designed automated cargo systems. Later, she transitioned into Telecom and worked on designing fiber-optic systems for Pacific Bell/SBC, both in Los Angeles and San Diego.
Her interest in the built environment and its influence on society led her to the Interior Design program at Mesa College and a shift in careers. She has been involved in ASID ever since in various leadership roles.
Hernandez has earned numerous awards for her community service, including the Daughters of the American Revolution Medal of Honor, City of Los Angeles Outstanding Youth, City of Los Angeles Certificate of Tribute, California State Assembly Certificate of Recognition 38th & 39th Districts, California State Legislature Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Service to the Community, and SBC Hidden Hero Award 1999 and 2000.
The new ASID board of directors also includes Suzi O’Brien, Allied ASID, president-elect; Megan Siason, Allied ASID, director of communications; Dasha Hervey, Allied ASID, membership director; Melanie Durkee, Industry Partner ASID, director of finance; Rachel Cooney, Allied ASID, director of professional development; Marcia Bryan, ASID, director at large; and Michelle Underwood, Student ASID, student rep to the board.
Category: Business, Education, Local News
