New Assistant Chair of Interior and Industrial Design Programs Announced

April 27, 2010 - PRLog -- Jan Merle, RID, ASID, IDEC, of Boca Raton, FL., has been appointed Assistant Department chair of Interior Design and Industrial Design programs at The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. He is a state licensed interior designer, a Professional Member of the American Society of Interior Designers, and is nationally accredited by the US Green Building Council for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED AP).
 
Merle has been a faculty member of the college since 2004, teaching myriad courses including basic and advanced business level courses, specifications, and ergonomics classes. “I became LEED AP,” says Merle, “which is a national exam-certified credential from the US Green Building Council. LEED AP stands for ‘Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Accredited Professional”.  

As a full time instructor, Merle taught studio and lecture courses to interior design students in CIDA accredited Bachelor of Science degree program, as well as students in the Associate of Science degree program and Residential Diploma program. He is responsible for teaching the two-course Professional Practices (business) track within the department and he designed and developed introductory elective course entitled “Sustainable/Green Design” for interior design and industrial design students. This course is the only course within the department focused exclusive on sustainable interior design and green building construction principles and practices, materials, and industry trends.

Merle has a Master of Fine Art from Miami International University of Art & Design, a Master of Science in Planning, from Florida State University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from Boston University. His professional experience includes: Senior Interior Designer at Robb & Stucky Furniture and Design Studio, Boca Raton; Interior Designer for Carls Furniture, Boca Raton; and Vice President of the Furniture Division for Gershon Rugs & Interiors, West Palm Beach. Among the list of accolades Merle has received are: Honorable Mention Winner - Sustainability Award, Cooper Lighting 2008 National SOURCE Awards Competition; Outstanding Service Award Florida South Chapter, ASID, and Faculty Recognition Award: Honored Faculty Member.