Coverings 2025 marks the introduction of the Coverings Champions, a new yet highly revered show accolade recognizing distinguished industry leaders for their extraordinary contributions — and the many hours they have generously volunteered — to the expansion and continued achievement of the event.
The debut class of Coverings 2025 Champions have played a pivotal role in shaping the event through their active involvement in educational sessions, expert panels, special projects, and outreach efforts, catalyzing industry innovation and significantly enhancing both the show experience and the positive trajectory of the tile and stone industry.
Four eminent visionaries have been named Coverings 2025 Champions by the show’s Board of Directors, in recognition of their consistent advocacy and considerable contributions to Coverings.
Meet the Coverings 2025 Champions:
Steven Clem, FAIA, ASID, IIDA
Principal
Atlanta, Ga.
Steven Clem, FAIA, ASID, IIDA is a principal with TVS where he has practiced architecture and interior design since 1978. He has the remarkable ability to help people imagine more, deliver bold ideas and masterfully design them to the smallest detail.
Significant to his work’s success, Steve embraces the partnership between the architect, designer, general contractor, and the true craftsmen that reside with the subcontractors, routinely promoting the best talent collaboration amongst these groups. His interest and design engagement with the international ceramic tile industry has generated many exciting opportunities and innovations in the some of his most outstanding projects. Steve has completely embraced the use of gauged porcelain panels in his projects, and has been an outspoken advocate for the technology. He shares his valuable insights on the technology in the design industry and at Coverings as well.
Join Steve as he participates on the panel for “Global Inspirations: Case Studies in Gauged Porcelain Slab Design and Installation” on Thursday, May 1 at 11:00 AM at Coverings 2025.
Tony Malisani
President
Great Falls, Mont.
As the third-generation owner of Malisani Inc., Tony continues the legacy of his family’s specialized ceramic tile, terrazzo, and stone contracting firm established in 1928. With over 30 years of comprehensive industry experience—spanning roles as mechanic, foreman, project manager, and owner—Tony brings unparalleled expertise to the ceramic tile, natural stone, and terrazzo sectors.
A distinguished member of the National Stone Institute, Tony has become one of Coverings’ most valued and dynamic expert speakers. His presentations stand out because they’re rooted in hands-on experience, making his knowledge both accessible and immediately applicable. Tony consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the stone industry through his active engagement, passionate advocacy, and generous knowledge-sharing.
Conference attendees are naturally drawn to Tony’s authentic approach and practical wisdom. His willingness to share his expertise—whether through formal presentations or one-on-one conversations—has established him as an exceptionally helpful and relatable resource. Tony not only enhances the conference program with his technical knowledge but also actively promotes Coverings throughout the industry, embodying the collaborative spirit that drives innovation in the field.
You can see Tony in action on Wednesday, April 30 as he leads and moderates “Managing a Family Business” at 12:30 p.m. and will lead the Fabricator Trends Tour at 3:00 p.m. He will also be moderating sessions on the Fabricator Stage, booth 4494 on Tuesday, April 29.
Woody Sanders
President
DW Sanders Tile & Stone Contracting
Marietta, Ga.
Woody Sanders is the visionary founder and president of DW Sanders Ceramic Tile & Stone Contracting Inc., established in 1994 in Marietta, Georgia. His company has distinguished itself as a premier specialty subcontractor, excelling in residential interior and exterior installations while pioneering innovative pedestal systems across both residential and commercial sectors.
Following unfortunate events inside his company in 2016, Woody reconnected with the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) at Coverings, where he found renewed inspiration and purpose. This pivotal moment catalyzed his deep industry involvement and commitment to advancing tile craftsmanship. He has invested substantial resources, expertise, and countless hours to enhance the Coverings experience through engaging conference sessions and spectacular installations in The Coverings Lounge, Installation Design Showcase, and Outdoor Oasis over several years. His investment in industry advancement extends to his own team—Woody brings his staff to Coverings, recognizing the educational value and ensuring the next generation of craftspeople benefits from industry engagement.
Currently, Woody is NTCA 1st vice president, sits on CTEF board of directors. He is on the technical front and is involved with NTCA Technical committee, Method and standards Committee, ANSI and TCNA. He is Certified Tile Installer #1295 and ACT #22.
Join Woody in the session, “Picture-Perfect Projects: Crafting Magazine-Worthy Exterior Living Spaces” on Wednesday, April 30 at 11:00 AM at Coverings 2025.
Harold Yarborough
Former Chairman
Sunrise, Fla.
Born and raised in South Florida, Harold Yarborough’s journey in the tile industry began early as he grew up immersed in his family’s business. He quickly recognized that expanding his knowledge would be fundamental to long-term success in the competitive tile market.
Harold distinguished himself through his strategic vision for industry events like Coverings. While many distributors focus solely on product acquisition, Harold recognized the broader opportunity: strengthening customer relationships by encouraging contractors, builders, and designers to attend the show. Harold viewed Coverings as an invaluable platform for deepening professional connections and elevating industry standards. This pioneering approach ultimately evolved into what is now the Coverings VIP Distributor Program.
Throughout his career, Harold has demonstrated remarkable commitment to industry advancement through his extensive association involvement including with ABC, CTEF, CTDA and NTCA. After serving as Chairman of D&B Tile Distributors until his retirement in 2021, Harold remains passionately dedicated to advancing both the tile industry and broader construction community. His enduring commitment continues to shape standards of excellence and innovation throughout the field.
The champions will be recognized at the Rock Stars & Coverings Champions Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, April 29 at 4:00 PM in The Coverings Lounge, booth 4300. Please join us in recognizing their achievements!
