Hannah Cox, a Joplin, Missouri native, has an eye for beauty.

Missouri State’s campus caught her eye on a visit, and it even inspired her Be a Bear T-shirt design.

“Missouri State has such a beautiful campus with great people and professors,” Cox said. “The graphic design program was a perfect fit for me.”

The beautiful heart of campus

If you’ve ever visited MSU’s campus, you will recognize her iconic design. It features water springing from the fountain and the carillion in the background.

“The fountain is like the heart of campus. Everyone talks about it and looks forward to it each spring. It brings people together,” Cox said.

Her design is for everyone.

“When people wear this shirt, they will think about the people and memories they made at Missouri State,” she said.

After sketching several ideas, Cox finally landed on a design. With a formula of perfectionism and creativity, her design is among the top three in the Be a Bear T-shirt contest.

A passion for design

Cox has always had talent for graphic design. She takes inspiration from every area of her life, whether it is traveling, friendships, school or sports.

“I draw inspiration from my surroundings and the words people say,” Cox said. “I take a minute to visualize that inspiration, then I get to work.”

Professors and teachers along the way have supported her passion.

“My professor Anton Pleshka has been very influential in my journey,” Cox said. “He goes the extra mile and gives good advice.”

Reflecting back and looking ahead

Life swings full circle for Cox as she reflects and looks ahead to graduation.

“In high school, I got the opportunity to design our basketball uniforms. It sparked my interest in athletic branding.”

When Cox got offered an internship at the University of Arkansas, it only made sense to accept it.

“I’m excited to dive into the world of sports marketing and design,” she said. “They have a great department, and I’m eager to learn more and use my talents in new ways.”

Until then, Cox enjoys her final semesters at Missouri State playing intramural sports and working at the Bookstore.

“I’ve worked at the Bookstore since my freshman year, and it would be so awesome to see my T-shirt being sold,” she said.

Be a Bear T-shirt Contest

If selected as the winner of the contest, she hopes her iconic, memorable design will help drive sales.

Proceeds support the SAA Completion Scholarship, which offers scholarships to students in need of extra help, allowing them to complete their degree while here at Missouri State.

“Everyone here is family. Whether you’re an alumni, faculty or staff member, current student or fan,” Cox said. “This shirt will remind people of their Bear family.”