PAVE Global Introduces International Student of the Season Award, Recognizing Leadership Beyond Design

PAVE Global is expanding its commitment to supporting the next generation of design leaders with the launch of the International Student of the Season: Emerging Designer Stewardship Award, a new quarterly program recognizing students whose impact extends beyond the classroom and studio.

While many awards focus primarily on design merit, the PAVE Student of the Season Award highlights students who support their peers, lead within their programs, give back to their communities, and contribute to the culture of design education in ways that often go unrecognized.

"Every educator can think of a student who makes their program better simply by being part of it. They lead by example, support their peers, volunteer their time, and consistently show up for others. Through Student of the Season, we want to recognize those students and ensure their contributions are celebrated alongside their academic and creative achievements," said Dash Nagel, Executive Director of PAVE Global.

Each quarter, one student will be selected by the PAVE Board of Directors. The recipient receives a $1,500 award to support their education, recognition on PAVE Global’s website and social channels, and digital assets for their portfolio, resume, and LinkedIn profile.

To launch the program, nominations are now open through November 30th, with the first Student of the Season to be announced in mid-December.

After the initial cycle, the award will follow a quarterly schedule.

Nominated by educators, student nominees must be currently enrolled full-time in a design-related program connected to consumer environments. That includes interior design, architecture, visual merchandising, graphic design, UX/UI, and similar programs.

Each nomination includes a short write-up focused on how the student shows up beyond their coursework.

Student nominees will be evaluated based on their community involvement, their support of others, and their potential to shape the future of the industry.

Nominations are now open. Educators are encouraged to submit a student and help recognize the next PAVE Student of the Season.

For full details and to nominate a student, visit: https://www.paveglobal.org/student-of-the-season.

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About PAVE Global

Founded in 1992 as The Planning and Visual Education Partnership, PAVE Global is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation dedicated to connecting design students, educators, and industry professionals worldwide. Through financial assistance, mentorship, and real-world learning experiences, PAVE Global helps students build successful careers designing and creating consumer environments. Learn more at www.paveglobal.org