Founders Award is an annual fundraiser to benefit EMP's youth programs. The fundraiser features legendary performers who have made substantial contributions to the field of music such as Billy Cox, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Buddy Guy, and Carlos Santana to name a few. Since its inception in 2007, the gala has raised more than $2.6 million in support of vital youth development programming. In 2014, EMP honored American singer-songwriter and musician Jackson Browne. Project Goals: The Founders Award is an elegant gala that calls for a sophisticated, sleek, and bold design. Founders Award has an extensive amount of collateral needs from invitations to the evening program and dinner menus, to auction paddles and digital auction screens. I wanted each piece to feel unique and special, yet still part of a cohesive gala identity. These choices in print affect the look and feel of the event with regards to linens, table decor, etc. Execution: I chose a dramatic, high-contrast color palette of black, white, gray, and metallic gold for a classy, timeless look. I kept the fonts and the overall design aesthetic fairly tradition and subdued, instead letting the paper choices and various printing techniques (foils, etc.) carry the weight of — and elevate — the overall design.

Art Direction, Logo, Illustrations & Design: Melissa Robinson Awards: 2015 Gold ADDY Award