Durham College Graphic Design students package up a winning formula

December 7, 2009

International clothing company chooses college for post-secondary competition

Thanks to the successful track record of its students, Durham College’s Graphic Design program in the School of Media, Art & Design was recently chosen by international clothing company American Essentials, to host an exclusive, in-college packaging design competition.

The company’s Packaging Development Contest was open to third-year students who were asked to create innovative, cost-effective and feasible new packaging for the American Essentials Spa Robe, one of the its best-selling products.

The program was chosen to host the unique competition after American Essentials investigated several colleges across Canada and the United States. Its decision to partner with Durham College was a result of the high quality work done by many of the college’s Graphic Design graduates, which is showcased on the Packaging Association of Canada’s website.

“To have our students recognized and selected by American Essentials and be chosen exclusively to present designs for its product is a direct reflection of the skills, competencies and experiences our students acquire during their three years of study at Durham College,” said Barbara Suen, a professor in the Graphic Design program.

A judging panel made up of American Essentials representatives evaluated each of the 12 mock-up entries based on esthetics, graphic design, innovation, sustainability, economic viability, environmental impact and overall appeal, in addition to each designer’s oral presentation.

While students were allowed to work in teams, it was Kathryn Nichol’s individual entry of a tin bucket with brown detailing that impressed the judges and took first place. For her innovative entry, Nichol was awarded $500 and a $500 gift certificate from American Essentials.

Nichol will also have to opportunity to complete an internship with the graphic design department of American Essentials and be mentioned on its website and in its company newsletter.

“Winning the American Essentials contest is like a dream come true,” said Nichol. “When they called my name I was in shock and I didn’t know what to do until they waved me up! It was and still is an amazing feeling knowing I made the right career choice and been recognized for my work.”

American Essentials is a subsidiary of McGregor Industries, which was founded in 1928 in Toronto, Ontario. It has since evolved into a global corporation with offices in the United States, England and Hong Kong.

Durham College’s School of Media, Art & Design is dedicated to exploring new ways of communication by combining a strong foundation of traditional skills and knowledge with cutting-edge technology to give students the best of both worlds. The school’s faculty is made up of dedicated professionals with a vast array of industry experience who challenge and support students throughout their academic journey.