WCAA Announces Recipient of the 2020 Jill Robson Memorial New Member Scholarship
One of WCAA’s most important values is the idea of furthering education within the Window Coverings industry. That’s why we take such great pleasure in awarding two educational scholarships to two of our members each year.
The Jill Robson Scholarship, above all else, is about honoring the life and legacy of Jill Robson, who was a true light in the window coverings industry. As a drapery workroom, educator, and connector, Jill was an advocate of education and always looked for opportunities to further her knowledge in the window coverings industry. She always entered a room with a smile and a quiet word of encouragement. Jill was a voice of reason and loved to share ideas. We honor her, her memory, and her contribution to the window coverings industry with these scholarships.
So, with that, it is our extreme honor to announce the first of our two winners!
Theresa Harmon, sole proprietor and seamstress of All the Trimmings Shop, and member of the WCAA Richmond Chapter, has been awarded our “New Member” Scholarship, and we couldn’t be prouder!
If you ask Theresa about her connection with the industry, she’ll tell you she’s had a “love affair” with sewing and fabric since she was 12 years old. To Theresa, the process of creating something that didn’t exist before is fascinating. She considers herself a connector because she loves people and sharing information. In fact, Theresa credits these personality traits as being the inspiration in creating All the Trimmings Shop!
Though Theresa is a new member of WCAA – having joined in October of 2019 – she’s already made an impact. After being encouraged to apply by Richmond Chapter President, Katherine Geffen, Theresa decided to take the chance.
Upon receiving the news that she had won, Theresa recalls feeling overcome with a combination of gratitude and humility. She started to cry, but then, she was simply speechless.
When we asked Theresa how winning this award felt, she says it was like a “huge pat on the back. I have spent most of my adult life raising children and volunteering in my community without monetary compensation, so there’s something incredibly validating about being commended by a professional group.”
Theresa goes on to share her experiences with the application process; “When I read my recommendation letters, I was floored. These people hadn’t known me for very long, but their kind words and accolades were humbling…but they also bolstered my confidence.”
Theresa plans on using her winnings to attend events and classes to increase her efficiency and the service she can offer her clients. She plans on sharing what she learns with her WCAA tribe, and we couldn’t be more excited for her.