Susan Ray-Degges, Ph.D., FASID, FIDEC
Dr. Susan Ray-Degges, Ph.D., FASID, FIDEC, is a nationally recognized educator, researcher, and leader in the field of interior design. With over three decades of teaching experience at North Dakota State University (NDSU), she currently serves as a Professor and the Interior Design Program Coordinator. Throughout her tenure, Susan has played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of design professionals, guiding students with a deep commitment to excellence, innovation, and evidence-based design. Her academic background includes a Ph.D. in Environmental Design with a specialization in Gerontology from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and a B.S. from Missouri State University.
A Fellow of both the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and the Interior Design Educators Council (IDEC), Dr. Ray-Degges has earned numerous accolades for her scholarship and dedication to the interior design community, including recent honors from ASID and the International Association of Top Professionals. She attributes her success to the mentorship and influence of strong women in the field—especially Ruth Stumpy, Holly Bastow Shoop, and Virginia Johnson—whose guidance has shaped her professional journey. Passionate about design history, education, and leadership, Susan continues to serve as a mentor, advocate, and visionary in the academic and professional design landscape.
• NCIDQ
• University of Missouri-Columbia- Master's
• University of Missouri-Columbia- Ph.D.
• Missouri State University
• IAOTP
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong educational foundation and a deep commitment to guiding and empowering younger generations in the field of design.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to be yourself and absorb all the knowledge you can—there’s always something to learn from every experience.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Get comfortable in the environment you choose, stay curious, and commit to learning as much as you can along the way.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in the field right now is keeping pace with the rapidly evolving interior design industry, where trends, technology, and client needs are constantly changing.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values in my work and personal life center around family—especially my daughter and son—who inspire everything I do and motivate me to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.