This Women's History Month, we're honored to celebrate Annie Lee, IIDA, NCIDQ, WELL AP, LEED AP ID+C, and Principal of Interior Design at ENV. Annie's strength and vision are deeply rooted in the remarkable women in her life, especially her grandmother, who broke barriers in early 20th-century Korea. Her grandmother's story is one of unwavering resilience and courage — from secretly teaching herself to read to building a business that supported her six children after becoming a young widow. She led with ingenuity, warmth, and a deep commitment to genuine connections. Here's how Annie shares the story of her incredible grandmother:

"My family has been blessed with strong, impactful women leaders - my mom, aunts, grandmothers, and cousins - many of whom are owners, founders, teachers, and directors, guiding their teams to succeed. While they have all influenced me in one way or another, I would like to spotlight one woman, my paternal grandmother. Her story is one of ambition, perseverance, and a profound need to prevail in an unstable, harsh, and often discouraging environment. These qualities shaped her life and left a lasting imprint on me and everyone around her.

My grandmother, born in 1912, overcame extraordinary challenges during Korea’s tumultuous times, including the Japanese occupation and the Korean War. Against societal norms, she taught herself to read and write in secret, later becoming a widow who tirelessly ensured her six children received a college education. She built a thriving Korean dress business, traveling far for the finest materials and managing every detail with determination and skill. Her warmth, resilience, and sharp instincts left an enduring impression on everyone who knew her.

Her legacy lives on in how I approach my life. I dress with intention, am fully present in my interactions, and always lead with kindness. She taught me that leadership comes not from dominating others but from empowering them and creating genuine connections. My grandmother was an innovator, a mentor, and an unwavering force of strength. As I reflect on her incredible life during Women's History Month, I am reminded of the countless women who, like my grandmother, quietly shape the world in their unique ways," explained Annie.

Annie takes the lessons she's learned from her grandmother to heart, bringing intention and grace to her leadership role. To Annie, even small gestures like a heartfelt handshake can speak volumes about connection and shared respect. Her passion for uplifting others shines through in her work at ENV, particularly in her newest initiative, ENV U (ENV University). Launching this April, ENV U will provide a platform for team members to share knowledge and grow together, building a culture of collaboration and mutual respect. ENV U ensures that every team member has the opportunity to shine, just as Annie's grandmother did for others throughout her life.

Annie's story and her grandmother's legacy remind us that authentic leadership starts with empathy and a dedication to lifting others. Her vision and heart inspire those around her, and she continues to redefine what it means to lead. Here's to Annie Lee and all the incredible women who change the world with their courage, strength, and compassion!