The Planning and Visual Education Partnership (PAVE) presented its 2009 Rising Star Award to Travis Burnham, senior manager of creative services for J. Crew. The award presentation took place during the 13th Annual PAVE Gala on Wednesday, Dec. 9 in New York City.

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 developed this award to recognize the achievements of individuals who have demonstrated talent, vision, and implementation in the retail environment.

Chosen by an independent panel of industry professionals from more than a dozen nominees, Burnham was nominated based on his exceptional vision for continuously creating ideas, conceptualizing their implementation, and ensuring an original vision in their execution.

“I get my design inspiration from everything around me—architecture, art exhibits, graffiti on the street. Everything plays a role in the creative process.”
– Travis Burnham, J. Crew

Burnham was one of three finalists for the 2009 Rising Star. Also in the running were Robyn Novak, director of interior design of FRCH Design Worldwide, and Stacy Suvino, visual director of Miss Jackson’s. All were at the Gala when 2008 Rising Star Award Winner Rachel Zsembery, AIA, LEED AP, of Bergmeyer Associates presented the 2009 award.

Companies 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. Judging the 2009 Rising Star competition were:

• James Bellante, Group Vice President, Visual Merchandising, Macy’s
• Kristin D. Godsey, Associate Publisher/Executive Editor, VMSD
• Nancy Jackson, President, Architectural Systems Inc.
• Ed Jankowski, Senior Vice President/General Manager, North America, Godiva Chocolatier Inc.
• Brad Somberg, President, B&N Industries