(Chicago, September, 2004) - - Barbara Marks, of Chicago, recently retired from the Harrington College of Design as student gallery director. Marks is Harrington’s longest serving faculty member and leaves a lasting legacy.

Marks began her Harrington career in 1972 as director of education. In her 32 years at Harrington, she held several different positions from placement director to resource lab manager.

"Barbara kept Harrington up to date on trends within the interior design industry," says Joe Write, an instructor at Harrington. "She brought the school to a whole new level."

Marks’ many achievements at Harrington include: initiating and teaching the sources and materials course; prompting former Harrington President Robert Marks to build a library (she also served as librarian); and introducing top industry professionals to Harrington by arranging lectures and seminars. In 2001, Harrington dedicated its student gallery to Marks in a surprise ceremony.

"Her talent and dedication to education have clearly made a positive impact on Harrington," say Patrick Comstock, president of Harrington. "We will miss her."

Marks will continue to practice interior design and plans to spend more time with her daughter and two grandchildren.

Located at 200 W. Madison St., Harrington is a four-year college that offers flexible scheduling for a bachelor of fine arts degree in interior design, an associate of applied science degree in interior design or digital photography, a professional interior design diploma and a kitchen and bath certificate program.

Founded in Chicago in 1931, the school seeks to foster an environment that maximizes students’ intellectual and artistic potential. The majority of the faculty are practicing interior designers, architects and fine art professionals. Harrington is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) and the Foundation for Interior Designer Education Research (FIDER). Harrington is also recognized by the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

For more information call 312.939.4975 or visit www.interiordesign.edu.