In keeping with the Planning and Visual Education Partnership's (PAVE) mission of nurturing and encouraging young talented individuals to ensure the future of the retail design and visual industry, PAVE will once again be presenting the 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 are invited to nominate an individual (under 35 years of age) who works in retail design, visual presentation, or contract design who is a proven innovator and leader among his or her peers.

Any retail organization or designer firm can nominate up to two individuals by completing a nomination form and submitting it to PAVE no later than October 15, 2008. There is no charge to enter. Individuals must be 35 years of age or younger.

Nominations will be reviewed by a panel of PAVE member industry professionals including retailers and educators. Finalists will be contacted for a short interview. Winners will be notified by mid-November. Awards will be presented during the PAVE Gala, Dec. 10, 2008, at Gotham Hall in New York City. Multiple awards may be presented. Award recipients will receive recognition at the Gala, online, through PAVE, and in the industry trade press.

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