In a historic moment, Janiya Barcliff, a visual arts design student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, has bagged the award in the third HBCU Design Challenge sponsored by JCPenney. Her winning entries will soon grace JCPenney’s collections, thus bringing her incredible talent to a broader audience.
Janiya’s track record in design contests is nothing short of impressive. Previously, she triumphed in the 2023 HBC-YOU T-Shirt Design Contest, the NBA ALL STARxHBCU Student Art Showcase, and the Moolah Design Olympics. These accolades attest to her standing in the fiercely competitive design industry.
Besides recognizing her craftsmanship, the HBCU Design Challenge also offered Janiya a two-day internship at JCPenney’s headquarters and seven mentoring sessions with the company’s executives. Thanks to this priceless experience, she not only expanded her portfolio but also gleaned invaluable industry insights.
The privilege of interacting with JCPenney executives was a highlight for Janiya, and she greatly values their guidance and encouragement. Other contestants such as Sheldon, Harrison, Lesley, and Gladstone reflected similar positive sentiments, applauding the mentoring exposure and professional growth opportunities provided by JCPenney.
Janiya’s winning design, now featured in JCPenney’s Black History Month Hope & Wonder collection, is a tribute to Black ethnicity and historic figures. Spearheading its approval was JCPenney’s Design Council, comprising professionals from various sectors. Their unanimous acceptance stands as a testament to both the design’s quality and its social significance.
Meanwhile, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University authorities disclosed that Stephanie G. Adams ‘88, Ph.D., and Tamron Hall will be the keynote speakers at the Spring 2024 Commencement. The community eagerly awaits the enlightening words from these influentials.
