AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship Announces Jurors

Scholarships support underrecognized and economically disadvantaged students pursuing degrees in design, photography, and illustration 

New York, NY—AIGA, the professional association for design, is pleased to announce an esteemed jury of design professionals for the 2023/2024 AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships program.

This scholarship program increases diversity in the creative professions by removing financial barriers and providing equitable opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Scholarships are awarded annually to students who demonstrate talent and unmet need, along with a commitment to positive social change, environmental responsibility, and/or cultural awareness through the practice of communication design (photography, illustration, graphic design). The academic scholarship helps students enrolled in colleges and universities in the United States achieve their educational goals and give back to their communities through their work. 

Since its inception in 1995, nearly $1.4 million dollars has been awarded to more than 800 college students of art and design. Scholarships are awarded in amounts of $2,500–$3,750. One or two top awards may be given in an amount up to $5,000 at the jury’s discretion. Honorable mention prizes in the amount of $500 or $750 cash may also be awarded. Each scholarship is paid directly to the recipient’s school and applied toward tuition. A one-year AIGA membership is also awarded to recipients. 

“It is an honor to help lighten the financial burden and inspire our future creators. They will continue to have a significant impact on our society’s future.” —Reggie Tidwell, Graphic Designer / Photographer, Curve Theory

“Through my participation in the AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship process, I am able to help support and highlight exceptional work made by a new generation of diverse voices so that more students have the opportunity to pursue a design education.” —Armando Veve, Illustrator/Artist, Armando Veve Studio

“Scholarships and grants allowed me to select my majors—Art Theory & Practice and Communication Studies—based on my passions. I graduated with honors and no student loan debt, and for that, I will forever be grateful to all those who helped me. It gave me the chance to build a career in the nonprofit sector that contributes to the greater societal good, and I am determined to ensure the next generation of creatives have similar opportunities.” —Lilia LaGesse, Founder + Lead Strategist, Heard Creative Co.

This year’s AIGA Worldstudio Scholarship jurors are:

Graphic Design:
Tom Futrell, Associate Professor, Louisiana Tech University
Lilia LaGesse, Founder + Lead Strategist, Heard Creative Co.
Rose Newton, UX Design Manager, Google
Felix Sanchez, Creative Director, felix made this, llc.
Ana Tobin, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design, George Mason University

Illustration:
Victor Davila, Associate Professor, University of Central Florida
Dian Holton, Senior Deputy Art Director, AARP
Ashley Taylor, Lecturer, University of Central Florida
Armando Veve, Illustrator/Artist, Armando Veve Studio
Justin Wong, Designer and Art Director, Justin Wong Design

Photography:
Jemma Dilag, Residential Creative Project Manager, CoStar Group, Homes.com
Reggie Tidwell, Graphic Designer / Photographer, Curve Theory

Partners:
Tom Koken, Designer, Worldstudio / Worldstudio Foundation
Mark Randall, Associate Dean + Assistant Professor, Parsons School of Design Strategies, Founder + Creative Director, Worldstudio

“Diversity in design is a key factor in making design more accessible for all. Everyone sees the world differently. We all have different past lived experiences and differing abilities that affect our perception of reality. A diverse range of designers will reach a more diverse audience.” —Ana Tobin, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design, George Mason University

“Contemporary challenges are global and it's going to take an army of creative problem solvers with a variety of backgrounds, cultural competencies, and innovative approaches to make the world a better place for all species of life.” —Felix Sanchez, Creative Director, felix made this, llc.

“Promoting diversity and responsibility in the creative industry can help challenge and break down harmful stereotypes and biases, both within and outside the industry.” —Dian Holton, Senior Deputy Art Director, AARP

Learn more about AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships.