RCC Students Emily Sanderson and Lydia Shumate Awarded $2,000 Scholarships to Pursue Graphic Design and Printing Careers

Riverside City College is proud to announce that Emily Sanderson and Lydia Shumate, students in the Applied Digital Media and Printing program, have each been awarded a $2,000 scholarship to support their continued education and career goals in the graphic communications field. The scholarships were presented during the department’s Open House Student Portfolio Showcase held on May 21, an event celebrating the accomplishments of graduating students.

The scholarships were generously funded by RCC industry partners: Autajon/Thoro Packaging, which contributed $1,000 per student, and the Printing Industries Association, Inc. (PIA), which matched with another $1,000 per student.

Emily Sanderson expressed her joy and disbelief upon receiving the award:
“I was shocked and elated to find out that I was one of the chosen to receive this scholarship,” she said. Her portfolio featured an impressive range of self-made merchandise, including stickers, screen-printed tote bags, and illustrations planned for embroidery.
“I feel it represents my ever-present curiosity in trying new things to bring my designs into reality.”

Emily emphasized how the scholarship validates her persistence and growth.
“Despite the struggles I’ve faced, the hard work I’ve put in has opened up opportunities I never imagined. It will help me continue my education and build a strong future in this field.”
She also credited the ADM program and faculty for their hands-on instruction and encouragement.

“The professors are extremely supportive and have given me the confidence to put myself out there. I even landed a student job as a Printing Assistant at RCC’s Print Shop.”

Lydia Shumate also shared her gratitude and excitement.

“I felt elated and slightly surprised when I found out I was selected to receive the scholarship,” she said. Lydia’s portfolio showcased her interest in packaging and structural design, alongside a variety of printed products and illustrations.

“I’m honored and extremely grateful that Thoro and PIA chose me. This scholarship will help me immensely in furthering my career.”

She noted the value of the ADM program in preparing her for real-world work.
“The program gave me firsthand experience and training with industry-standard equipment and software, which is incredibly helpful for breaking into the field.”
While still exploring her next steps, Lydia expressed sincere appreciation to the scholarship donors.

“To Autajon and PIA—thank you so much for this scholarship. I greatly appreciate it and will make the most of it.”

The Student Portfolio Showcase served as the capstone event for RCC’s graduating ADM students, many of whom are ready to launch careers in graphic design, print production, and packaging. Their work was displayed for industry guests, faculty, family, and fellow students to celebrate.

“We’re proud of Emily and Lydia for their talent, hard work, and dedication,” said faculty in the Applied Digital Media and Printing program. “Thanks to the continued support of our industry partners, students like them are empowered to take the next steps in their professional journeys.”

For more information about the Applied Digital Media and Printing program at Riverside City College, visit https://rcc.edu.