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2025 Student Design Challenge

Presented by the WVU Industrial Extension & Blenko Glass Company

About the Challenge

The 2025 Student Design Challenge Invites K-12 students across West Virginia to showcase their creativity by submitting an original glass design concept. The winning design will be transformed into a handcrafted Blenko glass piece, bringing the student’s vision to life!

This year’s theme, Glassalachia: A Celebration of Appalachian Alchemy, highlights the rich artistic traditions of Appalachia, blending heritage and innovation. Just as Blenko’ s artisans have shaped glass for generations, students will capture the magic of craftsmanship through designs inspired by Appalachian landscapes, culture, and creativity.

The winning design will be brought to life by Blenko’ s skilled artisans, giving one student the chance to see their artwork transformed into a one-of-a-kind glass masterpiece.

Part of the Manufacturing Day Initiative
The Student Design Challenge is part of Manufacturing Day (MFG Day), a nationwide initiative that introduces students to modern manufacturing careers and the opportunities available in high-tech, high-skill industries.

By participating, students will:
- Explore creativity and design thinking
- Learn about glass manufacturing and the role of artisans in industry
- Gain exposure to career opportunities in manufacturing 
- Experience the process of turning a concept into a final product

Manufacturing is about innovation, problem-solving, and creativity, and this challenge gives students a chance to experience these concepts in action.

How to Enter
Submission Deadline: April 4, 2025

- Create a clear drawing of your glass design.
- Select a glass color from the options below.
- Include your information:
    - Name, age, grade
    - School (or homeschool status)
    - Phone number
- Submit your design via email to tracy.straub@mail.wvu.edu.

You will receive a confirmation email once your submission has been received.

Note: The winning design will serve as inspiration for an original Blenko creation but may not be replicated exactly.

Exciting Opportunity for the Winner!

The winning artist will be invited to Blenko Glass to watch their design come to life! This hands-on experience will allow them to see master glassmakers at work and take home a one-of-a-kind piece inspired by their artwork.

Glass Color Options

- Crystal
- Citrine
- Turquoise
- Clover
- Cerulean
- Cobalt
- Tangerine
- Heliotrope
- Orange (Final Shade TBD: Butternut, Pawpaw, or Dreamsicle)

For Educators
If your classroom is participating, we can help with the submission process! Contact Tracy Straub to arrange a pickup for student drawings directly from your school.

Get Involved!
This is a unique opportunity for students to explore design, creativity, and manufacturing while contributing to West Virginia’s rich glassmaking tradition.

For questions or to arrange a classroom submission pickup, contact:
Tracy Straub, Strategic Marketing Manager at WVU Industrial Extension
📧 tracy.straub@mail.wvu.edu

Let’s go! We can't wait to see your designs!