Student's Winning Design to Grace Ride For Roswell Jersey
When Buffalo State design major Chelsea Carney received an assignment to create the design for the Ride For Roswell jersey, she conscientiously pursued it. Not only was designing the jersey an assignment in lecturer Jennifer Witkowski’s graphic design course, it also was a contest sponsored by the Roswell Park Cancer Institute’s yearly fundraiser.
Carney researched other successful race jerseys and worked to create an interesting design that depicted movement. She received an A-minus on the assignment—and she won the citywide contest.
Her jersey will be worn during the Ride for Roswell June 27-28 by members of the Extra Mile Club, those who have raised at least $1,000 for the event that draws thousands of bicyclists in support of cancer research and patient care programs.
"I thought it would be cool to have this on my resume, but I had no idea I would have a chance to win," said Carney, who will graduate with a degree in communication design in August after completing a summer internship. "It was really exciting to learn I had won, although it still doesn't seem real. When I actually see a bunch of the jerseys printed with my design, it probably will."
Growing up in Syracuse, New York, Carney was not familiar with the Ride for Roswell. However, she immediately felt a connection to the event due to her passion for healthy living. Although she isn’t a cyclist, she is training to run a half-marathon this summer.
Ride for Roswell founder Mitch Flynn presented the Extra Mile Club jersey design contest to Witkowski’s class in February. The contest was open to professional designers, and 20 individuals submitted designs.
"Chelsea seemed excited about the project, and it showed in her final design," Witkowksi said. "She went through several iterations and took the time to polish the final design before submitting it."
After being selected as one of three finalists, Carney's design became the favorite of several hundred past and present Extra Mile Club members. At the March 27 kickoff event, Carney’s winning design was unveiled.
"We are all extremely proud of Chelsea," said Stan Friesen, associate professor of design. "We often get requests for free design services under the guise of 'It will be good for your students' portfolios.' Periodically, however, a client's goals and ours mesh nicely."
In the past, Buffalo State design students have won the Allentown and Parkside Home Tour poster competitions, and they have participated in concept, promotion, print, and video for Buffalo State’s annual Runway fashion show.