Lenore Richards  BID MID

Executive Director

As Executive Director, Lenore Richards works closely with the Beal staff in developing and executing the strategic direction for the institute which includes a strong focus on educational initiatives. In addition to his own experience, he also attracts various materials, buy college term papers - as a result of painstaking analytical work, and listens to other people's opinions.

Lenore brings to the Beal 18 years of experience in academic leadership at the Ontario College of Art & Design, having held the positions of Co-Chair of the Environmental Design program and more recently, Dean of the Faculty of Design.  Her belief in the critical importance of integrating innovative thinking with responsive and responsible design led to the development of a philosophical base in the design programs of ‘Design and Humanity’, which subsequently was embedded in the curriculum through a complete redevelopment of Design’s six programs.

Lenore’s recognition of the need to create new knowledge and methodologies in design, and in defining a more significant role for designers in society led to the establishment of the Beal Institute for Strategic Creativity. Now part of the Beal, she will be developing educational programming which will establish a new field of learning in strategic foresight, and lead initiatives which support the Beal’s goal of incorporating innovative thinking and innovation management into the business environment.  The ability to understand human behaviour, recognize the potential of new technologies and foresee future product and service opportunities will be the focus of all educational initiatives and will create the capacity to transform business and design practice and ultimately the human experience.

Lenore received her Bachelor of Interior Design from the University of Manitoba and her Master of Industrial Design from the Rhode Island School of Design.  Her experience in industry includes two of Canada’s most creative and influential design firms, Yabu Pushelberg, and Kuypers Adamson Norton, where she was an associate. Lenore worked on projects in the areas of exhibit, product and retail design, where emphasis was consistently placed on conceptual strength and innovation in the creation of compelling human experiences.

Lenore is a professor at the Ontario College of Art & Design teaching thesis students in the Environmental Design program.  She is a member of the Association of Interior Designers of Ontario and of the Association of Chartered Industrial Designers of Ontario, and serves as a Director on the Board of the Laidlaw Foundation.