TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumna Kai Allen has been named one of two first-place winners of the Target HBCU Design Challenge. The national competition, which celebrates creativity and innovation from students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), recognized Allen’s outstanding design work by featuring one of her creative designs on a sweatshirt available in select stores.  

Allen, a graphic design graduate from FAMU’s School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (SJGC), discovered the Target HBCU Design Challenge when her professor, Anthony Brundles, shared the opportunity with students.

“FAMU is where I found my creative spark,” said Allen. “The small, intimate classroom setting and the unwavering support from my professors gave me the confidence I needed to push forward with this competition. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their encouragement and guidance.”

FAMU’s SJGC has long been known for fostering creativity and providing opportunities for students to excel. Allen’s journey is a prime example of how FAMU’s tight-knit community, supportive professors, and invaluable resources empower students to succeed. Throughout her time at FAMU, Allen was pushed to continuously refine her craft and explore new design avenues, receiving both academic and professional support from faculty such as Professors Alicia Hope, Anosh Gill, and Carlos Miranda.

As one of the first-place winners, Allen is not only excelling in her professional career, but also inspiring others along the way.

“I hope my success inspires young Black girls who may not see themselves in design yet,” said Allen. “If I can do it, they can too. Representation matters, and I’m proud to show them that they too can achieve their dreams.”

Since graduating, Kai has worked as a creative designer at Liquid Soul, an Atlanta-based multimedia marketing agency, where she continues to build on the skills she developed at FAMU. She also works with the FAMU National Alumni Association, contributing her design expertise to enhance the organization’s visual branding.

Media Contact:
Alonda Thomas
Alonda.Thomas@famu.edu

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