For a decade, the AIGA Connecticut Fellow Award didn’t happen.

Ten years without pausing to honor the designers who built this creative community.
Ten years without gathering to recognize the people who opened doors, created opportunities, and shaped careers across our state.

In 2023, we brought it back.

We honored Randy Herbertson — and it reminded us what this award is supposed to be: not just a ceremony, but a moment. A room full of designers acknowledging the shoulders we stand on.

This year, we continue that commitment.

On February 25th at Bad Sons Beer Co., we are honoring:

Nancy Ruzow — founder of Ruzow Graphics and The Creatives Roundtable. A connector. A mentor. A force behind so many creative relationships in Connecticut.

Karl Heine — founder of creativeplacement. An advocate for talent. A champion for designers. A leader who has helped shape the professional paths of countless creatives in our state.

The AIGA Fellow Award is our chapter’s highest honor. It recognizes lifetime achievement, mentorship, and lasting contribution to the design profession.

But here’s the truth:

An award only has meaning if the community shows up.

This night isn’t just about Nancy and Karl.
It’s about the ecosystem they helped build.
It’s about honoring mentorship.
It’s about proving that Connecticut design shows up for its own.

If you’ve ever benefited from a referral, a job opportunity, a critique, a conversation, or a moment of guidance in this community — this room is yours too.

We don’t want another hiatus.
We don’t want this tradition to disappear again.

We want a full room.
We want energy.
We want applause that echoes.

Join us.

Wednesday, February 25
6–9 PM @ Bad Sons Beer Co., Derby, CT

Tickets:
$45 non-members
$35 members
$25 students

👉 Reserve your seat now.

Let’s make sure this tradition continues.
Let’s show up.