The Home Furnishings Association is proud to recognize Elizabeth Ann Howell as the recipient of the 2025 Emerging Star Award. Elizabeth Ann’s passion for furniture and design, combined with her innovative leadership and dedication to community engagement, has made her a standout leader in the home furnishings industry. Her journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and a commitment to excellence.
A Legacy Reimagined
Elizabeth Ann Miskelly’s career in home furnishings was a natural extension of her upbringing. Growing up in a family that has shaped the industry for over 45 years, she was exposed to the world of furniture retail from an early age. However, her initial career path took her elsewhere—first earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Mississippi State University, then spending five years as a dedicated 5th-grade teacher. While teaching allowed her to inspire and mentor young minds, she ultimately felt the pull back to her family’s business and returned to Mississippi to make her mark at Miskelly Furniture.
Her journey began as a furniture buyer, where she introduced fresh, stylish selections to the showroom floor. This role led to the creation of “Elizabeth Ann Home,” a curated lifestyle concept that quickly expanded due to its overwhelming success. Today, as Vice President of Design and Culture, Elizabeth Ann oversees showroom design, furniture selection, project management, community engagement, and company events. Her leadership reflects a unique blend of creativity and business acumen, ensuring that Miskelly Furniture continues to innovate while staying true to its mission of creating welcoming, inspiring spaces for customers.
Overcoming Challenges with Grace and Determination
Stepping into a leadership role within a family business comes with unique challenges, particularly in a male-dominated industry. Elizabeth Ann faced the difficult task of establishing her own identity while earning credibility among colleagues, team members, and industry partners. She navigated this by building strong relationships, demonstrating deep industry knowledge, and letting her results speak for themselves.
A turning point in her journey was the success of “Elizabeth Ann Home.” By launching a brand that combined creativity with strategic retailing, she showcased her ability to innovate beyond the family legacy. She also leaned on mentors and allies to guide her, proving that empathy and collaboration are powerful leadership tools. Through perseverance, she transformed these challenges into opportunities for personal and professional growth, shaping her into the confident leader she is today.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Elizabeth Ann envisions expanding Miskelly Furniture beyond Mississippi, cementing its reputation as the most beloved furniture retailer in the Southeast. She plans to enhance the customer experience by growing the “Elizabeth Ann Home” concept and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within her team.
Balancing professional aspirations with family life is also a priority. As a wife and mother, she is committed to setting an example of sustainable success by maintaining boundaries that support both career and personal fulfillment. By investing in executive coaching, mentorship, and industry engagement, she is ensuring continuous growth for herself and her company.
A Heart for Community and Industry
Elizabeth Ann’s impact extends beyond the showroom. She is a dedicated board member for FCA International and actively supports organizations such as the American Heart Association, We Will Go Ministries and Friends of Mississippi Veterans. Her contributions to the home furnishings industry include sharing insights at trade shows, encouraging industry collaboration, and fostering a culture of creativity and connection.
At Miskelly Furniture, social responsibility is a guiding principle. Under Elizabeth Ann’s leadership, the company has launched initiatives such as Miskelly’s Loves Teachers and Miskelly’s Loves Students, providing classroom rugs and backpacks filled with supplies to local educators and students. The company also partners with charities like Love Your Neighbor Ministries and the Gateway Rescue Mission, donating furniture to help individuals transitioning out of homelessness and other challenging circumstances.
Beyond community support, Elizabeth Ann prioritizes employee well-being. Miskelly Furniture hosts annual appreciation events, wellness initiatives, and professional development opportunities to create a workplace culture where employees feel valued and inspired. Her leadership in these efforts reinforces the company’s dedication to both its team and its customers.
A Star on the Rise
Elizabeth Ann Howell embodies the qualities of an Emerging Star—innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to her industry and community. Her ability to blend business excellence with social responsibility sets her apart as a leader poised to shape the future of home furnishings retail.
The Home Furnishings Association congratulates Elizabeth Ann Howell on this well-deserved recognition. Her journey inspires aspiring industry leaders and proves that success is built on passion, perseverance, and a dedication to making a meaningful impact.
This recognition is part of the Home Furnishings Association’s annual awards program, which celebrates outstanding individuals in the furniture retail industry. Learn more about our honorees and their contributions at Retailer of the Year Awards—Home Furnishings Association.
