2023 Merit Scholarship Recipient: Anna Stark

Describe the work you submitted for merits.

Included in my Merit Scholarship entry is my Systems Design course final project. I completed this course in Fall of 2022. Throughout the duration of Systems Design, I dove into the system of drinking water in Minneapolis. This project includes an overall system description, various system views (including a structural, lifecycle and multiple process flow diagrams), system solutions, a reflection and sources cited. The system solutions include sustainable solutions through the lens of biomimetic design, archetypes, and eco-effectiveness.

I chose this topic to better understand the lifecycle of drinking water and water consumption patterns, find a way to connect more deeply with the community of which I reside, and consider possible ties to my thesis topic. All of which could determine or affect my career path.

Water is a core element to the wellbeing of the biosphere, and is a necessary resource connected to most all systems. The availability of, or limits to water directly impacts everything on Earth. It is often taken for granted and the process of water treatment is a mystery to many. By taking the time to study this more closely, I have a new appreciation for the molecule itself, the complexity of the drinking water treatment process and how much I consume water. I am motivated to help others understand this as well by potentially submitting ideas to the City of Minneapolis for consideration. I plan to include volunteering within my career path. To truly help my community, I believe it is important to be well researched on any given topic, including the larger water table system. This project may serve as a jumping off point into deeper systems that I may apply to volunteer opportunities or discussions with various boards of the city of Minneapolis.

As stated in my reflection, there are infinite super-systems and subsystems to study within and surrounding the system of drinking water in Minneapolis. Any of which could be connected to possible projects I may encounter in my career as a designer. All may and likely should involve sustainable water use. My thesis is focused on a specific golf equipment manufacturing brand (TaylorMade), and I am exploring water consumption reduction within related systems. The goal of my thesis is to offer potential solutions to TaylorMade and become part of their team or similar golf manufacturer to expand sustainable practices across the sport. I believe water is a foundational system that all should understand, and golf appears to be significantly far behind.

What I love most about being a designer is the ability to thoughtfully consider solutions to a variety of challenges. Systems thinking is a strong tool I can now apply to my design process to better frame any creative brief and work towards more sustainable solutions. In a world where strategy and design are separate departments, this emboldens me to be both.

What made you choose to come to MCAD for your MA?

I've heard great things about MCAD throughout my career in design and advertising. A handful of very talented co-workers attended MCAD. I chose to pursue an MA at MCAD to be part of and continue its bright legacy, and more deeply connect to my local community.

Favorite thing about the program (so far)?

There is a positive buzzing energy within and surrounding the MASD program. Peers (all coming from various backgrounds) and professors alike are eager to jump into discussions and are relentless in the pursuit of making a the world a better place today, tomorrow, and for all time.

What is the MCAD online learning experience like?

I have come to prefer online learning. I enjoy being able to manage my schedule and thoughtfully consider written discussions. It is also great to have access to campus to connect more closely with the school's community.

What inspires you?

Open-minded, passionate, positive creatives will always inspire me (MCAD is chock full of them). If I need a creative reset, I will turn to nature, get lost in an art gallery, or sing with a choir.

Do you have a favorite piece you've made? Describe it!

My favorite piece is still on the horizon. I am planning to work with a client of mine to reimagine a piece of equipment that is golf related. My favorite project of the MASD program was to describe my creative process through the lens of systems design. It provided me a moment to reflect upon my personal process and consider improvements.

Anything you're obsessed with at the moment?

My dog, Luna. She's my snuggly study buddy.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

A community leader who co-owns an acreage with a nature walk, sculpture garden and multi-functional lodge (art gallery, salon or gathering space, etc.). All dogs welcome of course.