Meet the Faculty

Diedre Bowers

Instructor, Practical Aspects of Interior Design Part I

Diedre Bowers

Instructor, Practical Aspects of Interior Design Part I
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Joanna Kennett

Instructor, Practical Aspects of Interior Design Part I

Joanna Kennett

Instructor, Practical Aspects of Interior Design Part I
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Jean Cipriano

Instructor, Practical Aspects of Interior Design Part II and Part III

Jean Cipriano

Instructor, Practical Aspects of Interior Design Part II and Part III
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Christine Conte

Instructor, Business of Design

Christine Conte

Instructor, Business of Design
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Samia Jawab

Instructor, SketchUp

Samia Jawab

Instructor, SketchUp
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Sandra Tremblay

Director, Metropolitan Design School

Sandra Tremblay

Director, Metropolitan Design School
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Salvatore Campitiello

Director

Salvatore Campitiello

Director
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Enza Campitiello Zingone

School Agent

Enza Campitiello Zingone

School Agent
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Diedre-Bowers

Diedre Bowers

Instructor, Practical Aspects of Interior Design, Part I

For nearly two decades, Diedre Bowers, owner of Diedre Bowers Interiors, has been transforming residential spaces into timeless, inviting environments that reflect each client’s personality and lifestyle. Since launching her firm in 2005, Diedre has become known for her casually elegant aesthetic and her ability to blend creativity with functionality. Her work is characterized by thoughtful design solutions, attention to detail, and collaboration with trusted partners in the field to bring every vision to life.

A graduate of the Interior Design Program at Molloy University, Diedre’s approach to design is rooted in both artistry and technical understanding. She believes that great design begins with listening—understanding how people live, what inspires them, and how a space can enhance their everyday experience. This philosophy guides her as she curates environments that balance comfort, sophistication, and purpose.

 

In addition to her successful design practice, Diedre has been a dedicated educator since 2019, teaching courses in History of Interiors & Furniture, Design Concepts, Design Elements, Lighting, and Color at Molloy University. Her teaching style emphasizes the practical side of design—the hands-on knowledge and critical thinking required to turn creative ideas into well-executed spaces.

 

At Metropolitan Design School, Diedre teaches Practical Aspects of Interior Design, Part I, where she helps students bridge the gap between design theory and real-world application. Drawing on her extensive professional experience, she guides students through project workflows, material selections, spatial planning, and the essential skills needed to manage client expectations and design logistics.

 

As an active member of the Interior Design Society (IDS), Diedre remains deeply connected to the broader design community, continuously expanding her expertise and encouraging her students to do the same. Her goal as an instructor is to inspire future designers to think critically, embrace creativity, and approach every project with confidence and care.

Joanna Kennett

Instructor, Practical Aspects of Interior Design

With more than twenty years of experience in residential interior design, Joanna Kennett brings a refined eye, technical expertise, and deep respect for the creative process to both her work and her teaching. A graduate of New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, Joanna began her career training under respected architects and designers, where she built a strong foundation in spatial design, detailing, and project coordination. These early experiences shaped her belief that great design is as much about structure and precision as it is about imagination

Building on years of experience at established design firms, Joanna founded her own studio, where she developed a reputation for creating interiors that are purposeful and reflective of each client’s individuality. Her approach emphasizes how thoughtful design can improve the way people live, optimizing the home for beauty, ease, and purpose.

 

As an educator, Joanna is dedicated to preparing students for the realities of a professional design career. She believes that developing a strong technical base is the key to unlocking creative freedom. Her teaching combines practical instruction with mentorship, helping students gain confidence in both their craftsmanship and their conceptual thinking.

 

At Metropolitan Design School, Joanna teaches Practical Aspects of Interior Design, Part I, a course focused on bridging the gap between design theory and application..

Joanna’s teaching philosophy reflects her career-long belief that design is a dialogue between creativity and craft. She encourages students to trust their instincts, stay curious, and approach every project with both artistry and precision.

Jean Cipriano

Instructor, Practical Aspects of Interior Design

With more than twenty-five years of experience in the field, Jean Cipriano brings a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and industry insight to her students. As the principal and lead designer of Cipriano Consulting, an interior design firm specializing in both commercial and residential constructional space planning, Jean has built a career rooted in thoughtful, sustainable, and human-centered design.

Her expertise spans large-scale corporate environments and intimate residential projects alike. Over the course of her career, Jean has led design initiatives for notable clients such as Siemens Global, The World Bank, and the NY/NJ Port Authority, managing projects both domestically and internationally. Her work reflects a deep understanding of how design shapes the way people experience space—balancing aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.

 

A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, Jean holds professional credentials as both an ASID member and LEED Accredited Professional, underscoring her commitment to sustainable design practices and continuing education within the industry.

 

Jean has been teaching for over twenty-five years, sharing her expertise across a wide range of courses in Interior Design, Commercial and Residential Design, Space Planning, Drafting, Business, Interior Architecture, Fine Art, and Sustainable Design. She has also prepared students for LEED certification and, true to her holistic approach, even taught Yoga, encouraging balance and mindfulness as part of the creative process.

 

At Metropolitan Design School, Jean teaches Practical Aspects of Interior Design, Parts II & III, where she focuses on helping students translate conceptual ideas into technical execution. Her classes emphasize problem-solving, spatial logic, and the professional realities of working in the design industry.

 

Jean’s teaching philosophy is rooted in her belief that great design requires both intuition and structure. Through her guidance, students gain the confidence to think critically, communicate their ideas effectively, and develop a design practice that is as sustainable and intentional as it is beautiful.

Christine Conte

Instructor, Business of Design

Christine Conte is the founder and principal designer of Christine Conte Interiors, an award-winning boutique design studio based in Huntington, New York. With over fifteen years of experience in the industry, Christine has built a reputation for creating sophisticated, livable interiors that blend timeless design with modern sensibility.

Since founding her firm in 2014, Christine has taken a highly personalized approach to every project, keeping her studio intentionally small to ensure close collaboration with each client. Her work is defined by a balance of function and elegance—spaces that not only look beautiful but feel effortless to live in. Christine’s philosophy centers on listening deeply, asking the right questions, and translating her clients’ visions into refined designs that reflect who they are and how they live.

 

A graduate of the Metropolitan Institute of Interior Design (MIID) in 2012, Christine has come full circle by returning to teach the next generation of designers. She has previously taught two semesters of The Business of Design, a course focused on helping students bridge the gap between creativity and entrepreneurship. Drawing from her years of real-world experience running a successful design studio, Christine guides students through the practical aspects of building and managing a business—from client relations and project management to branding and pricing.

 

Whether she’s designing a home or mentoring future designers, Christine believes in the transformative power of good design. Her goal is to inspire others to think creatively, embrace authenticity, and approach their work with both artistry and intention. Through her teaching, Christine encourages students to develop not only their design skills but also the confidence and business acumen needed to thrive in today’s industry.

Samia Jawab

Instructor, SketchUp

Samia Jawab is the owner and principal designer of The Right Triangle Design Studio, a full-service interior design firm known for its precise technical execution and creative problem-solving. With a unique blend of artistic talent and technical expertise, Samia has built a multifaceted career supporting residential and commercial design projects across New York. As both a professional designer and skilled drafter, she has collaborated with numerous architects, contractors, and fellow designers to bring design concepts to life through detailed drafting, rendering, and 3D visualization.

A graduate of the Metropolitan Institute of Design (MID) with a degree in Interior Design, Samia also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business and is a Certified New York State CAD Teacher. Her diverse background spans beyond interiors—she began her career in New York City’s fashion and jewelry design industries, where she honed her eye for composition, proportion, and materiality. This creative foundation continues to influence her design approach, allowing her to seamlessly bridge aesthetics and precision.

 

At Metropolitan Design School, Samia teaches SketchUp guiding students through the essential tools and workflows that transform ideas into visual realities. Her classes emphasize clarity, accuracy, and efficiency in digital drafting, empowering students to express their creativity through professional-level renderings and models. With her combined background in design, drafting, and business, Samia offers a well-rounded perspective on how technology can enhance both the creative and operational sides of the design process.

 

Outside the classroom, Samia’s life is centered around family and community. She is a proud wife and mother of three daughters, often found cheering at swim meets, marching band competitions, or volunteering at local school and chamber of commerce events.

 

Dedicated, detail-oriented, and passionate about teaching, Samia looks forward to sharing her technical knowledge and creative insights with the next generation of designers—helping them build the skills and confidence to bring their visions to life.

Sandra Tremblay

Director, Metropolitan Design School

Sandra Tremblay brings nearly a decade of diverse experience in the interior design industry, coupled with a strong background in communications, administration, and education. Her career reflects a deep commitment to both the creative and operational sides of design, as well as a genuine dedication to fostering the next generation of industry professionals.

Sandra began her professional journey with a foundation in Communication Arts, later transitioning into interior design when she joined Inside Out Design as a Design Assistant. While gaining hands-on experience, she simultaneously pursued her diploma at the Metropolitan Institute of Interior Design, graduating in January 2018. Her early years in the field taught her the value of collaboration, client communication, and attention to detail—all qualities that continue to shape her approach to leadership.

 

Following her time at Inside Out, Sandra joined Ocean Blu Designs, where she deepened her understanding of residential interiors and project coordination. She later returned to the Metropolitan Institute in an administrative capacity, a move that allowed her to combine her design background with her organizational strengths. During this period, Sandra became a vital part of the school’s day-to-day operations and strategic planning, ultimately helping to guide it through a critical transitional phase that included overseeing its voluntary closure.

 

Eager to continue growing within the field, Sandra joined East End Interiors while simultaneously leading efforts to launch a new, state-approved design institution—what would become Metropolitan Design School. As Director, Sandra is responsible for maintaining statutory and regulatory compliance, overseeing student services, personnel, and program development, and ensuring the school upholds its mission of providing an education that blends creativity, professionalism, and innovation.

 

Sandra is an active member of the Interior Design Society (IDS), Long Island Chapter, and remains passionate about building a collaborative and forward-thinking design community. Through her leadership, she continues to shape Metropolitan Design School into a space where students feel supported, inspired, and ready to thrive in the evolving world of design.

Salvatore Campitiello

Director

For more than twenty years, Salvatore Campitiello has been a trusted leader in Long Island’s interior design community. As Director of Metropolitan Design School and co-owner of East End Interiors, he brings deep industry knowledge and a strong commitment to elevating the next generation of designers. Sal specializes in business strategy, client relations, and the operational side of the design trade. His background includes serving as President of the Long Island Chapter of the Interior Design Society, where he gained a firsthand understanding of the needs of both emerging and established designers. Over the past several years, Sal has worked closely with Sandra Tremblay to secure New York State Department of Education approval for the school, ensuring students receive a program built on professional standards. He is known for his entrepreneurial mindset, collaborative leadership style, and dedication to creating a supportive, career-driven environment for students and educators alike.

Enza Campitiello Zingone

School Agent

For more than two decades, Enza has been an essential force behind East End Interiors, shaping the company into the customer-centric, designer-focused showroom it is today. Since joining the business in 2003, she has developed a deep understanding of the interior design industry and what it truly takes to thrive in an ever-changing market.

Known for her collaborative approach, Enza fosters an environment where designers feel supported and inspired. She leads with mentorship and trust, offering guidance whether she’s helping with a complex project or serving as a creative sounding board.

 

Enza stays active in the design community through her involvement with the Interior Design Society of Long Island (IDS) and the Long Island Builders Institute (LIBI), helping promote professional growth and connection.

 

As a Principal of Metropolitan Design School, she’s passionate about helping new designers gain confidence, build skills, and pursue careers they love. Enza believes that great design starts with a strong foundation—and she’s proud to help students find theirs.

Your career in
interior design
starts here.

MDS offers an immersive, in-person education that blends creative vision with real-world practice — from color theory and spatial planning to residential and commercial design.

Small class sizes mean personalized mentorship at every stage.

  • In-person, project-based learning
  • On-site library of premium materials
  • Residential & commercial curriculum
  • Mentorship from industry professionals

 

Enrollment is now open, classes begin March 2nd, 2026

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