Look out seasoned vets, this year’s crop of designers mean business. Over 50 students turned out to show off their portfolios and have local professionals review their work. Remarkable as they all were, 3 students really impressed the judges. A big congratulations to Stephen Grimm of the University of North Florida for placing first. Congratulations also go to second place winner Tony Sasso of Flagler College and third place winner Wendy Chan of the University of Florida.

Rounding out the top 10 were: Elaine Damasco (Flagler College), Brandon Santiago (Flagler College), Heather Raines (University of North Florida), Matt Pittaluga (Flagler College), Carolina Bermudez (University of Florida), Rachel Tanner (University of Florida) and Ashley Smith (Flagler College).

This year’s event was held in the spacious new Student Union at the University of North Florida where student designers and observers represented the Art Institute of Jacksonville, Jacksonville University, Keiser University, Florida State College of Jacksonville, Flagler College, Savannah College of Art and Design, University of Florida and the University of North Florida.

A great big thanks goes out to Mig Reyes of threadless. Friday evening, Mig impressed us all with an amazing talk describing his passion projects. At one point, while showing design work for a DJ, he told us:

“I want to see my friends fist-pumping and talking about Helvetica.”

Saturday, Mig acted as a guest judge and spent the afternoon reviewing student portfolios. Student observers gathered around Mig’s table as he offered up excellent advice and in-depth feedback to each student he reviewed.

Thanks to all the volunteers for helping make this event a success, and many thanks to all of the local design professionals that gave up a gorgeous Saturday to help review and give valuable feedback to each student designer. Thanks to the Friends of the Jacksonville Library for donating the sizeable collection of design books used as prizes for the event. Last but not least, thanks to Dave Begley for being my co-director and partner in crime.

View pics on facebook

– blake, education co-director