The CUP Fellowship for Change in Design is an initiative to support the development of a pipeline of talented individuals from historically under-represented communities into the design field. The Fellowship is a paid opportunity to work with CUP for one year, gaining valuable experience in the field as well as access to mentorships from leading designers.

And we’re so excited to welcome Elijah to the team! Elijah is a graphic designer from Flint, Michigan and a recent graduate from Eastern Michigan University with a BFA in Graphic Design. With his time at Eastern he worked for many on-campus organizations such as the Center for Diversity and Community Involvement, the Undergraduate Research Symposium, and the School of Art and Design — organizations that use their platforms to promote inclusivity, research, and culture. Elijah wants to take what he has learned about critical thinking and creative problem solving and apply them to issues that are impacting the communities where he grew up, and where he recently relocated to — New York City.

Our sincerest thanks to our jurors and all who applied, especially to our finalists. It was a pleasure and honor for us to get to know and showcase so many talented, emerging designers!

And meet the 2019 Jury and finalists.