Commemorative Bookmark Crafted for Woven's 125th Anniversary Honored with Design Recognition

Nancy Webster, a distinguished alumna of the Wilson College of Textiles, has designed a unique commemorative bookmark to celebrate the college's 125th anniversary. The woven bookmark, a testament to the innovative American textile industry, embodies the college's rich history and bright future.

With over 40 years of experience in textile manufacturing, sourcing, product development, design, and retail, Webster led this project with her deep connection to the college. She has been actively involved as president of the North Carolina Textile Foundation (NCTF) Board of Directors, a mentor through the college's Blend Mentorship Program, and a significant philanthropic supporter of the college's future.

The bookmark's design holds deep sentimental and symbolic value, serving as a one-of-a-kind stewardship piece gifted exclusively to donors and industry partners. The seven logos and icons, as well as the background pattern, each hold significant meanings, representing the college's history, achievements, and vision for the future.

The project was recognized for its unique design and collaborative execution, winning a silver 2025 CASE Circle of Excellence Award from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).

The bookmark was translated into a vector file by Kam King, assistant director of communications for the North Carolina Textile Foundation (NCTF). The finalized bookmark was produced by Wright Creative Branding and Labels, a North Carolina-based manufacturer, using metallic threads. Lauren Navarro '20, a member of the Zeis Textiles Extension team, and Bailey Knight '22 and Teresa White '84 in the W. Duke Kimbrell Flex Factory, also contributed to refining the technical aspects of the bookmark.

Beth Palmer, multimedia specialist for the Wilson College of Textiles, developed iconography for the bookmark. Together, the bookmark and publication serve as lasting tributes to 125 years of textile innovation and education at the Wilson College of Textiles.

Over 4,000 bookmarks were produced and sent to donors and industry partners. This bookmark project honors the college’s rich textile heritage by continuing its woven bookmark tradition since 1960, while showcasing Webster’s signature blend of design excellence and commitment to the textile community.

[1] Source: Wilson College of Textiles' official press release, dated March 1, 2024.

Commemorative Bookmark Crafted for Woven's 125th Anniversary Honored with Design Recognition