Sep 25, 2026
International Textile Alliance Announces 2026–2027 Executive Committee and Board of Directors
HIGH POINT, N.C., September 18, 2026 – The International Textile Alliance (ITA) has announced its Executive Committee and Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 term, welcoming new leadership and recognizing the service of outgoing board members whose contributions have helped strengthen the association and the home furnishings textile industry.
Leading the Executive Committee as President is Elise Gabrielson, Vice President of Marketing for Crypton. Joining her are Anderson Gibbons, Chief Revenue Officer for STI, as Vice President, and Andy Pacuk, Sales Consultant for Dani Leather, as Treasurer.
“Our industry is built on creativity, relationships and a remarkable willingness to share ideas and knowledge,” said Gabrielson. “I’m honored to lead ITA alongside a board that reflects that same spirit. Together, we have an opportunity to strengthen the connections that make this organization so valuable, elevate the story of textiles and ensure Interwoven continues to be a place where discovery, relationships and meaningful business happen.”
ITA also welcomes three new directors to its Board of Directors:
- Baris Ertin, Managing Director, Topteks USA, Inc.
- Andy Kahan, Director of Marketing, Regal Fabrics
- Kristin Olson, Vice President of Sales, Covington Fabric & Design
They join returning board members:
- Tammy Buckner, Senior Vice President Design & Marketing, Culp, Inc.
- Tammy Covington, President & CEO, High Point Market Authority
- Steve Gittelson, President, Morgan Fabrics
- Rick Lovegrove, Vice President, Upholstery, Universal Furniture
- Tom Notaro, Senior General Manager, Glen Raven Material Solutions Group
“We have a great mix of experience and perspectives on this board, with leaders representing so many different parts of our industry,” said Carrie Dillon, Managing Director of the International Textile Alliance. “Their ideas and expertise will help guide where ITA goes next and keep us focused on creating real value for both our members and buyers through Interwoven, education and industry initiatives like our new Textile Hall of Fame.”
ITA extends its sincere appreciation to the outgoing board members for their dedication and years of service:
- David Lappert, Kravet
- Mendy Kearns, Hamilton Fabrics
- Carla Bluitt, Gruppo Mastratto
“Carla, Mendy and David have each made a lasting impact on ITA,” Dillon added. “We’re incredibly grateful for their leadership, commitment and the many ways they’ve helped shape and strengthen our organization.”
The ITA Board of Directors provides strategic leadership for the association, guiding initiatives that support the home furnishings textile industry while strengthening member engagement, education and business opportunities through Interwoven Textile Fair and other association programs.
About the International Textile Alliance
The International Textile Alliance (ITA) is the only trade association dedicated exclusively to the home furnishings textiles industry. Through its biannual Interwoven Textile Fair, educational programming and member services, ITA connects textile manufacturers, suppliers and buyers while fostering innovation, collaboration and business growth across the home furnishings marketplace.