Regina Lausell studied Interior Design at the International Academy of Design and Technology in Tampa, Florida and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in July 2008. After graduating, she worked as a graphic designer and regional planning assistant. Regina continued her studies, focusing on Lighting Design at Parsons in New York City, and graduated with a Masters degree in May 2014. She worked as a ‘showroom sales associate’ for a high end lighting manufacturer. Since June 2013 she has been working as a lighting designer and project manager for Tirschwell & Co., Inc. in New York City.

Shedding light on human behaviors: Qualifying light as a cognitive stimulus in individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Regina theorizes that since the inherent properties of visible light, electric or natural, can increase cognition and alter moods, she can attempt to develop an architecturally integrated light system which will deliver Bright Light Therapy in a passive setting to high volumes of users. Through analyzing lighting thresholds, space planning and marketing strategies within the retail industry, her proposal offers further applied research in light and health by incorporating user photobiology in enhancing the built environment. Her presentation will contribute to assist in the development of new applications for light and health and in the prevention and alleviation of chronic anxiety symptoms related to GAD.