The Washington Design Center deeply mourns the loss of a beloved member of the DC Design Community, Sarah Boyer Jenkins, FASID. Sarah was not only an exceptionally gifted interior designer but also an extraordinary leader who selflessly dedicated her time, talent, and energy to numerous design organizations and charitable causes.
As a Charter Member of ASID, Sarah played a pivotal role in the merger of the American Association of Interior Decorators (AID) and the National Society of Interior Designers (NSID) that gave birth to ASID in 1975. Prior to the formation of ASID, Sarah actively participated in AID, including serving as President. Her unwavering commitment to ASID only grew stronger, holding various offices within the chapter and leading numerous committees. Sarah’s extensive involvement included chairing the CEU Committee and representing the chapter on the NCIDQ Council. She also held distinguished positions such as National Co-Chair of the Residential Design Specialty Network, Chair of the Documents Task Force, and Chair of the Service Corporation Management Committee.
Sarah’s exceptional contributions were recognized through numerous accolades from the chapter, including the prestigious Designer of Distinction Award in 1990, the Chapter Medalist Award in 1996, and the Design for Humanity Award in 1999. In honor of her remarkable dedication and significant contributions to the chapter, the Society, and the interior design profession, she was inducted into the esteemed ASID College of Fellows in 1997. Furthermore, the chapter established the APEX Award in 2007, a tribute to Sarah’s enduring and outstanding contributions. Sarah’s influence extended beyond ASID, as she served as National President of the International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA) and was recognized as a Fellow.
Sarah’s philanthropic efforts were commendable. She tirelessly supported charities close to her heart, including the March of Dimes “Gourmet Gala,” where her involvement was highly sought after. Sarah served on the Executive Committee of the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and was recognized with the Margaret L. Hodges Leadership Award for her exceptional participation and fundraising endeavors. She contributed her time and passion to the Special Olympics “Night of Trees” event for eight years and actively participated in multiple National Symphony Show Houses to support the NSO. Sarah’s dedication and fundraising skills were instrumental in the development of the ASID Foundation during her tenure on the ASID National Board.
In addition to her extensive volunteer work, Sarah excelled as a highly successful interior designer. Her educational journey began at Wesleyan Conservatory in Macon, Georgia, and continued at the School of Fine Arts and The Abbott Art School in Washington, DC. She further pursued her education at The George Washington University and American University, earning a Graduate Degree in Business. Sarah firmly believed in the importance of continuous education within the design industry, advocating for professional growth. She embarked on her design career at Woodward and Lothrop before becoming the Director of Interior Design and Visual Merchandising at W & J Sloane, where she mentored several ASID members. Sarah later established her own business, Sarah Boyer Jenkins and Associates, specializing in residential design. Her creative talents attracted numerous clients, many of whom became multigenerational patrons. Sarah’s profound influence on the Washington design community was recognized through her inclusion as a Founding Member of the Washington Design Hall of Fame.
Sarah Boyer Jenkins is survived by her dear friend Greg Des Roches, who provided her care during her residence at Sunrise at Fox Hills in Bethesda. She was predeceased by her husband Jasper (Jack) K. Jenkins, her mother Ruby Lee Boyer, and her father Col. Charles M. Boyer.
The Washington Metro ASID Chapter is sending a gift in Sarah’s name to the ASID Foundation, an organization that meant so much to her. In lieu of flowers please think of donating to the charities Sarah worked for so diligently. Please send contributions to president@dcmetro.asid.org
