Rima Nasser

Rima Nasser

Rima Nasser

Rima Nasser, BA Integrative Studies ’08 Rima Nasser, BA Integrative Studies ’08, is founder and lead designer of TEW Design Studio, a boutique and full-service interior design firm in Raleigh, North Carolina. Nasser wears many hats to help her business run smoothly and takes the lead in her studio’s marketing strategy, client relations, accounting, and in directing her team. Nasser’s family moved from Palestine to Richmond, Virginia, when she was 15 years old. Adapting to a new country and culture was challenging, and she was later drawn to Mason because of its diversity. It was important for her to be around people like her, as well as people from all over the world.

Nasser was originally a biology major and had plans to be take the premedical route, but she did not feel that path matched her passions. She chose to change her major after researching other options and instead pursued an integrative studies degree with a focus on arts and culture. After graduation she moved to Italy to study at the Florence Design Academy, where she received her master’s degree.

As a business owner, Nasser uses her expertise to work through challenging situations, and her advice to Mason students is to stay calm and push through. “Go into college and be patient and absorb everything you can. Success is not instant; it takes time, and you celebrate your wins and learn from your losses. Success will come with perseverance, even if it takes years.”

Nasser was a 2020 recipient of a 40 Under 40 Leadership Award given by the Triangle Business Journal in North Carolina in recognition of her invaluable support to the local community during challenging times. During the pandemic, Nasser and her team created an online boutique shop and donated the proceeds to local organizations such as the North Carolina Restaurant Workers Relief Fund, the Women’s Center in Raleigh, and the Loveland Foundation.

Published in the CHSS annual report 2020-21.