For Martha Stewart's first annual "American Made" young entrepreneur "Elevator Pitch" competition four MFAD grads out of five finalists were selected: Joanna Kuczek, Jesse Yuan, Sylvia Villada (all MFAD '12) and Jennifer Glaser (MFAD '11).
All five finalists gave 3.5 minute pitches selling their thesis products to five jurors, including Ms. Stewart and Robert W. Walsh, Commissioner of the NYC Department of Small Business Service, who also asked probing questions.
And the winner is: Joanna Kuczek. She receives $5000 to help jump start the Krasula Pierogi Bar and a year's mentorship with Martha Stewart Omnimedia's CEO.
The other projects were:
Sylvia Villada's "Rock + Rad;" Jesse Yuan's "Tailwind; and Jennifer Glaser's "Fuzz Bucket."
Congratulations to all for a tremendous showing. And to Gael Towey, Omnimedia's Chief Creative Officer, for her encouragement and support.