ENCINITAS, CA, July 17, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Carol Stead Tuggey has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Ms. Tuggey's professional journey is distinguished by her expertise in strategic planning, business growth and governance, which she has demonstrated across multiple decades and sectors. Most recently, she has served as the past board chair for The Doris A. Howell Foundation for Women's Health Research in the greater San Diego area beginning in 2023. In this capacity, she provided guidance and oversight to the foundation, building on her prior leadership as chairperson of the board from 2020 to 2023. Her tenure was marked by a commitment to advancing women's health research and empowering women through education, reflecting her longstanding dedication to nonprofit leadership.

Prior to her most recent role, Ms. Tuggey contributed significantly to the field of interior design. From 2006 to 2019, she held the position of senior design consultant at Tuggey Interior Design, a firm she co-founded in 1969 alongside her husband, Robert E. Tuggey, ASID, a founding member of the American Society of Interior Designers. During this period, she transitioned from hands-on design work to providing high-level leadership, guiding interns and shaping the business's strategic direction.

Ms. Tuggey is passionate about encouraging others to engage in causes and issues that are meaningful to them, whether social, political or global in nature. She believes that meaningful change begins with a willingness to take action and become involved. This philosophy guided her and her husband in founding their own company after recognizing the limitations of pursuing leadership opportunities within a larger organization.

From 1969 to 2008, Ms. Tuggey served as the founder and chief executive officer of Tuggey Interior Design in San Diego County. The firm became known for their international projects and client-centered approach, emphasizing selective choice and personal communication. As chief executive from 1969 to 2006, she was instrumental in establishing the company's reputation for excellence and innovation in interior design. She is very proud of her entrepreneurial achievements during an era when women were rarely seen in leadership roles, testifying to her pioneering spirit and resilience.

Ms. Tuggey's academic background has been integral to her professional accomplishments. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in international relations and Art History from Pomona College in 1965, providing her with a broad perspective that informed both her creative and organizational endeavors. She completed coursework toward a master's program at the University of California, Los Angeles, and obtained teaching credentials which enabled her to teach with San Diego City Schools.

Reflecting on her career, Ms. Tuggey attributes much of her success to the values instilled in her by her father during childhood—particularly self-reliance and a drive for independent decision-making. Although he passed away when she was only nine, these qualities have continued to underpin her approach to leadership and community engagement.

Ms. Tuggey's civic involvement is extensive and ongoing. In addition to her leadership roles with The Doris A. Howell Foundation, she has served as president of Soroptimist International of La Jolla in 2011 and has been a board member for Soroptimist International of Oceanside-Carlsbad. Additionally, Ms. Tuggey leads a program of assistance to the previously homeless as a part of Impact Coastal Alliance in Encinitas, California. Her dedication has been recognized by The Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary in San Diego as a Woman of Dedication in 1991.

Ms. Tuggey's personal life reflects her commitment to growth and service. Born in San Diego, she is the mother of one child and grandmother of two grandchildren. She enjoys cultivating orchids as a hobby. Looking ahead, she intends to remain active within nonprofit organizations with a focus on empowering women through education and advancing women's health research—areas where she believes continued advocacy is essential for equitable progress. For her, the ability to make bold decisions and create opportunities is essential to both personal and professional growth.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. The suite of Marquis® publications, including Who's Who in America® and Who's Who in the World®, remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the globe. Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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