MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — A Middle Tennessee State University Department of Art and Design graphic design student earned international recognition for her illustration work, highlighting both her individual talent and the strength of the department.

Senior graphic design major Lila Gordon was selected for the 2026 Student Scholarship Competition hosted by the Society of Illustrators, one of the most respected institutions in the field. Out of more than 4,550 entries submitted from around the world, only 216 pieces were chosen for exhibition, placing Gordon among the top student illustrators internationally.

Her selected piece, “A Little Fishy,” began as a class project and evolved into a detailed digital illustration inspired by a summer study trip to Cincinnati. The work features stylized packaging of tinned fish, combining typography, color and intricate linework into a cohesive design.

“I decided to make an illustration that captured the beauty and variety of something seemingly mundane,” Gordon said. “I enjoyed illustrating all the intricate details of the cans and adding my own stylized twist.”

The project was created during a three-week summer course titled “Design Camp” led by associate professor Noël Lorson, which blends travel and hands-on design work. Students spend time exploring a city for inspiration before completing projects based on what they observed and the resources they collected.

“It’s an amazing piece that combines typography, image and color and deserves to be recognized,” Lorson said. “When the entire faculty works together to educate students throughout their academic careers, you see results like this.”

Associate professor Tony Rodriguez encouraged her to submit the piece to the competition and supported her professional development.

“Having your work recognized by the Society of Illustrators means it meets a professional, industry-wide standard,” Rodriguez said. “It’s validation from the same people who are hiring and commissioning work.”

Rodriguez added that Gordon’s discipline and work ethic contributed to her success.

“She submits work early, her ideas are strong and her drive to create exceptional work is what truly sets her apart,” he said.

For Gordon, the recognition came as a surprise.

“I was absolutely shocked when I found out, and thrilled my work made it in,” she said.

While the award did not include a monetary prize, selection for the exhibition carries significant weight in the illustration industry. Winning entries are showcased in New York and viewed by art directors, agencies, and publishers, often leading to freelance and career opportunities.

Gordon said her time at MTSU helped prepare her for that next step.

“I’ve gained so much invaluable knowledge from the design classes I’ve taken and built lasting connections with my peers and professors,” she said.

After graduation, she plans to pursue freelance illustration and continue building her portfolio.

Her success reflects the broader impact of MTSU’s graphic design program, which emphasizes hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, and real-world application. Through opportunities like Design Camp and national competitions, students gain both creative experience and professional exposure.

As Gordon’s work heads to a prestigious gallery, it carries with it not only her personal achievement but also the reputation of a program focused on preparing students to create at the highest levels.

—   Mike Davis (Michael.Davis2@mtsu.edu)