GDES Alumnae Named 2024 GDUSA Students to Watch

Bistritz and Stein both graduated from SIGD with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design this past December.

As a student, Bistritz was highly involved with efforts and organizations on campus. She served as Vice President and graphic designer for Humans of Auburn, worked for both Student Affairs and Student Involvement and co-hosted a weekly design podcast on WEGL 91.1 FM, Auburn’s student-run radio station. She had numerous pieces of work recognized in the Graphic Design (GDES) Juried Show.

For her senior project, Bistritz designed materials to promote a fictitious art exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. The exhibit, titled “Reflections,” is comprised of 27 artworks, each corresponding to one of the 27 human emotions identified by the University of California, Berkeley.

Her exceptional work earned her the highest honor bestowed upon outstanding Graphic Design senior projects: an A Commended award.Bistritz’s journey at Auburn began with uncertainty, as she initially enrolled as an Exploratory major. However, after just a few weeks, she made the pivotal decision to switch to Graphic Design—a choice she now reflects upon with pride.

“I did the right thing when I switched my major,” Bistritz remarked.

Stein also garnered recognition during her time as a student, both within SIGD and beyond. She received a Graphic Design Studio Award and a GDES Juried Show Merit Award from the School, as well as a 2023 Package Design Award from GDUSA for her project titled, “Luminice Lighting Co.,” guided by Associate Professor and Graphic Design Program Chair Robert Finkel. Stein is currently awaiting further award results from GDUSA, The Type Directors Club and Communications Arts.

Stein’s senior project, “Fold Newspaper,” aimed to make art and art education accessible, approachable and digestible. The publication acknowledged that art spaces can be intimidating and exclusive, aiming to bridge the gap between knowledge and the curious. Her outstanding work earned an A Commended from the Graphic Design faculty.

Throughout her student years, Stein remained committed to an analog process, yet eagerly embraced opportunities to acquire new technological tools. With each project, she challenged herself to push boundaries, discovering a profound passion for art and design in the process.

“This honor is a nod to all the late nights and early mornings,” Stein shared. “It’s a thank you to the professors who pushed me and the classmates who supported me.”