My most recent trip to Bemidji State University (BSU) reinvigorated me. From the Art & Design Advisory Board meeting to the student project panel review and the annual TAD Talks, I came away creatively refreshed and renewed by young talent.
Passion for exhibit and graphic design is what motivated me to build my career in the exhibition industry. So the opportunity to be involved with young people who share my passion is exciting and rewarding. In fact, hiring a BSU student for an internship here at Ion Exhibits that inspired me to get more involved.
This is my second year serving on the Art & Design Advisory Board of the School of Technology, Art & Design, otherwise known as The TAD School. BSU offers the nation’s only undergraduate program in Exhibit Design. Board members collaborate with faculty on the curriculum, guest speakers, field trips and internships. The program is so successful it boasts an impressive 100% placement after graduation.
This is also my second year serving on the Review Panel. As a graduation requirement, all seniors present their professional portfolios to industry leaders. It’s wonderful to mentor students that display so much creativity and enthusiasm for their presentations.
Modeled after the famed TED Talks series, BSU’s TAD Talks are an entirely student-run production developed by The School of Technology, Art & Design, aka The TAD School. The presentations bring together talented design experts involved in the most creative industries. It’s an amazing event designed to immerse attendees in imaginative presentations from varied artistic disciplines.
Like many of my colleagues, I enjoy having the opportunity to give back and help nurture the future design needs of the exhibit industry.