Online Interior Architecture Faculty

Janet Whitmore

I was always fascinated with the built environment, long before I knew the words for architecture, design or art, much less history. After spending a decade working as an architectural historian in architectural firms in Minneapolis, I began teaching architectural history at the University of Minnesota College of Design. In addition I worked as a consultant on art exhibitions for the Minneapolis Institute of Arts and the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam. Today, I work with Rehs Galleries, Inc. in New York on two catalogue raisonné projects and with other museums, galleries and collectors on a variety of publications and exhibitions. Recent publications include a two-part article on "Ho-o-den at the World's Columbian Exposition: A Trans-Paciifc Dialogue" for the Journal of Japonisme, and two essays in the exhibition catalogue for Paris-Brussels, 1880-1914, The Effervescence of Artistic Visions at the Palais Lumière in Evian, France. And of course, I developed the two-course online sequence on the history of interior architecture for Ohio University.

Lori Kinley

I have been teaching interior design courses (both in-person and online) since 2006.  I have a BS/Advertising, BA/Art (Interior Design), MA/Historic Preservation, and PhD/Human Environmental Sciences.  My educational background may not showcase my research interest, but I am fascinated by the use of space.  With my BA, I looked at space planning as a great puzzle. With my MA, I investigated the utilization of historic spaces by respecting the original structure but also updating for current use. And with my PhD, I researched the physical and online interior design studio classroom practices and culture. ASID, Allied Educator member

Nina Arboscello

Nina Arboscello is an interior designer and educator. She has been teaching for over 19 years both on-ground and online. Her focus has been on teaching students commercial design studios, human factors and materials and specifications. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design Interiors and a Minor in Architecture. She received her Master of Art in Interior Design and a graduate certificate in Historic Preservation from Savannah College of Art and Design. Nina has been a professional interior designer for over 30 years; she is a Registered Interior Designer in North Carolina and has worked in numerous Architectural Firms along the East Coast. Her design focus and project experience cover all aspects and types of interior design, with the focus being commercial- corporate, industrial, and healthcare. Nina strives to bring her real-world experiences into the classroom and help students bridge the gap to professionalism. Nina finds great joy in mentoring her students and encouraging them to succeed in this field. She believes in giving back to the profession through the design organization, IIDA, and has been actively involved as city center director, student liaison and as a former chapter president. Nina lives in South Carolina, and enjoys spending time with her three children, husband, and golden retriever. If she is not home you can find her traveling or at the beach.

Rebecca Fields

Rebecca Fields is an experienced design and facilities professional who brings over 20 years of industry expertise to the classroom.  As an alumna of Ohio University's Interior Design program, she is passionate about giving back to the next generation of designers by teaching in the same program that helped launch her career.  She specializes in space planning, project management, and process improvement, with a proven track record of leading large-scale capital projects and cross-functional teams.  Currently serving as the Space and Facilities Administrator for the U.S. District Courts (OHSD), Rebecca brings deep expertise in budget oversight, stakeholder collaboration, and strategic planning. She loves helping students bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice.

Elisha Lorenzi, NCIDQ, LEED AP BD+C, CHID, IIDA

With more than 25 years of experience in the field of Interior Design and a certification in Healthcare Design, Elisha specializes in the complex yet deeply rewarding discipline of healthcare environments. Her portfolio includes nationally recognized hospital projects that have been transformed through her expertise in Human-Centered Design, creating spaces that prioritize comfort, durability, and the well-being of all users.

In 2010, Elisha launched her own consulting practice in Lancaster, Ohio, which expanded her opportunities to collaborate with diverse architectural firms and healthcare systems. In 2023, she was invited by Ohio University to share her expertise as an adjunct instructor. One year later, she transitioned into a full-time academic role as an Assistant Professor of Instruction.

Most recently, in the summer of 2025, Elisha earned a Master’s degree in User Experience (UX) Design from the Columbus College of Art & Design, further enriching her interdisciplinary approach to design and education.

Susan Gladden

With over three decades of experience in commercial interior design, Susan has dedicated her career to creating environments that inspire and support the people who use them. Her work spans education, healthcare, senior living, corporate, and banking spaces, each shaped by her belief that thoughtful design can enhance productivity, learning, healing, and overall quality of life. A proud graduate of The Ohio State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Interior Space Design and Industrial Design, Susan combines technical expertise with a human-centered approach. When she’s not designing, she shares her love of yoga by leading students through daily moments of calm and mindfulness.

Tim Hirchfeld

Tim is a distinguished architect who has been an integral part of the Columbus, Ohio design community for over 30 years. A graduate of The Ohio State University, he has built a reputation for excellence through his extensive professional practice and dedication to advancing the field of architecture. In 2023, Tim expanded his impact by joining Ohio University as an adjunct instructor, where he brings his real-world expertise into the classroom. Passionate about mentorship, he is committed to equipping students with both the technical knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed in the profession, while inspiring them to approach design with creativity, integrity, and purpose.

Robin Faires

Robin has over 20 years of senior leadership experience in the design and construction industry, where she continues to bring passion and expertise to her work. A dedicated advocate for women in construction, she empowers her students to become trailblazers by cultivating their talent and knowledge. Robin earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Ohio University and is deeply committed to advancing sustainability in every project she undertakes. She recognizes the lasting, positive impact that high-performing, environmentally responsible buildings have on both communities and the natural world.

Liz Thompson

Liz brings a deep passion for educating the next generation of Interior Architecture professionals at Ohio University. Throughout her career, she has shared her expertise with students at multiple universities through online programs, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and design excellence. As a senior interior designer, Liz applies her professional experience at a leading design firm in the Houston area, bridging theory and practice in her teaching. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Winthrop University, a Master of Education from the University of Houston, and a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Brenall University.