Susquehanna University’s Zack Piecyk ’26 was recently featured in American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) Philadelphia’s annual Locally Sourced student design competition, which features the finest emerging student creatives in the Mid-Atlantic.
“As a senior graphic design major, it feels very validating to have one of my projects chosen for the AIGA Philly Locally Sourced publication exhibit,” Piecyk said. “Over the past few years, I have submitted projects to 10 competitions, and I have finally had success this year.”
Piecyk, of Armonk, New York, submitted a project titled Wild Rabbit Pints + Pies, which he created for Susquehanna’s brand design course. The project required students to conceptualize and design a logo and style for a retro-inspired craft pizza and beer bar based in Denver, Colorado.
“External design competitions are a great opportunity for our students to add to their resumes and network with professionals in the field,” said Amanda Lenig, department head of art & design and associate professor of graphic design. “Being given the chance to get your name out there and meet other designers is crucial for career success.”
The competition elicited more than 400 submissions from students across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and New York. Winners are featured in the annual Locally Sourced digital and print publication. Susquehanna’s Samantha Cubberley ’26, a graphic design major from Havre de Grace, Maryland, was also featured.
“While we know we are preparing our students for their next steps, having that validation from external professionals confirms we are steering them in the right direction,” Lenig said.
