In keeping with the mission of the Planning and Visual Education Partnership (PAVE) of nurturing and encouraging young talented individuals to ensure the future of the retail design and visual industry, PAVE will present its second annual Rising Star Award to recognize the achievements of individuals who have demonstrated talent, vision, and implementation in the retail environment.

Retailers and retail design firms were invited to nominate an individual (under 35 years of age) who works in retail design, visual presentation, or contract design and is a proven innovator and leader among his or her peers.

The three finalists for the 2008 Award are:
Pamela De Blanc, visual merchandise manager, MGM MIRAGE Retail
Matthew Grubar, director, visual merchandising, Elie Tahari Ltd.
Rachel Zsembery, AIA, LEED AP, associate, Bergmeyer Associates Inc.

The finalists will be recognized and the winner will be announced during the PAVE Gala on Dec. 10, 2008, at Gotham Hall in New York City.

The following industry professionals are the judges for the 2008 Rising Star Award competition:
Rachel Arnold, partner, Transit Culture/R.A.A
Christine Belich, vice president, visual merchandising, Sony Electronics Inc.
Ignaz Gorischek, vice president stores, visual, planning, and design, The Neiman Marcus Group Inc.
Nancy Jackson, president, Architectural Systems Inc.
Steve Kaufman, editor, VMSD Magazine.

Contact Catharine Scott at PAVE at 954-241-4834 or e-mail pave@paveinfo.org