The Ovetta Sampson Standard Bearer Award for Visionary Industry Leader celebrates the outstanding contributions of individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, influence, and achievement in the design industry.
This award recognizes individuals who have made significant strides in their careers, not only through personal achievement but also through their commitment to elevating others in the industry. Recipients of this award embody visionary leadership and demonstrate a dedication to fostering inclusivity, diversity, and innovation within the design and technology fields
the Ovetta Sampson Standard Bearer Award for Visionary Industry Leader
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
The Ovetta Sampson Standard Bearer Award for Visionary Industry Leader is open to individuals who have demonstrated visionary leadership and exceptional achievement in their design or technology career. Nominees or applicants should have a proven track record of breaking barriers, serving as role models, and leading innovation within their industry.
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Nominees or applicants must demonstrate significant personal achievement in their career that has contributed to breaking down barriers in the design or technology industries. This could include becoming a leader in a historically underrepresented field, creating groundbreaking work that challenges norms, or leading significant industry-wide change.
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Applicants or nominees must exhibit visionary leadership qualities, including the ability to inspire, mentor, and guide others within the industry. This could involve leadership in a company, organization, or project that has had a lasting impact on design or technology.
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The nominee or applicant must show a commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within their field. This could include advocating for the inclusion of underrepresented voices in design and technology, mentoring emerging talent, or leading initiatives that promote equity and inclusion.
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Nominees or applicants must demonstrate how their leadership and work have influenced the industry. This could include contributions to innovative projects, thought leadership, public speaking, or publications that have shaped the future of design and technology.
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The award is open to established leaders in the design and technology industries. Applicants or nominees should have at least 10 years of experience in their field, with a demonstrated history of leadership and impact.
The award will include a monetary grant or stipend to support the recipient’s ongoing leadership initiatives, as well as a feature in the State of Black Design publication, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the design and technology industries.
the awardee will have the opportunity to share their story through a keynote presentation or panel discussion at the State of Black Design event, providing a platform to inspire others and continue their role as a visionary leader in the industry.
Through this award, the State of Black Design aims to encourage future generations of leaders to break down barriers, foster diversity and inclusion, and serve as role models for excellence and vision in the design and technology fields.
Application and Nomination Process
Applicants for the Ovetta Sampson Standard Bearer Award for Visionary Industry Leader may be nominated by peers, colleagues, or industry leaders, or they may submit an application on their own behalf.
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A completed application or nomination form, which includes personal information about the nominee or applicant, background in design or technology leadership, and a brief biography.
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A portfolio showcasing the nominee’s or applicant’s career achievements, leadership roles, and impact on the industry. This could include case studies of key projects, leadership roles, and contributions to the field.
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A 750- to 1,000-word statement detailing the applicant’s or nominee’s approach to leadership, their barrier-breaking achievements, and their commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the industry. This statement should highlight their influence on the design or technology community and their vision for the future of the industry.
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Two to three letters of support from colleagues, peers, or collaborators who can speak to the nominee’s or applicant’s leadership qualities, industry impact, and role model behavior.
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Links to any digital media (e.g., articles, interviews, presentations) that support the application or nomination, allowing the selection committee to review the nominee’s or applicant’s contributions to thought leadership in the field.