Beginning as a business major at Missouri State University, London Richards wasn’t always sure that she would pursue a creative field.

At the end of her sophomore year, however, she decided to follow her passion for graphic design.

“I remember taking a Photoshop class in eighth grade, and I loved it. Graphic design had been in the back of my mind since, but I didn’t have any real experience until I started pursuing it at MSU three semesters ago,” Richards said.

When she learned about the 2024 Be a Bear t-shirt design contest, she had one goal in mind: make it fun.

“I wanted others to see and enjoy how it feels to be a Bear,” Richards said, citing a culture of belonging across campus.

Richards completed her design as part of a Visual Communication course taught by Professor Jacek Fraczak, whose students have competed in this contest for several years. The contest encourages students to submit original designs that incorporate campus culture with the tagline “Be A Bear.”

Upon hearing the tagline, Richards immediately thought of the beloved mascot, Boomer.

“He’s always welcoming and in high spirits,” Richards said.

For her, Boomer embodies what it means to Be a Bear.

“The BearLine is (also) something that’s always there for students,” Richards adds. Providing a means for connection across campus, the BearLine would prove to be an essential element of her design.

As a finalist for the 2024 contest, Richards states “I wanted this design to be inclusive of everybody and (to be) easily recognizable.”

The design is meant to evoke a joyful and welcoming environment for all students.

About the 2024 Be a Bear T-Shirt Contest

Voting for the 2024 Be a Bear T-shirt contest has now closed. London Richards was voted as the winner for the contest. Desiree Daos’ design was the runner up.

The shirt was released for sale at the MSU Birthday Party, on Wednesday, March 20. You can also find them at the MSU Bookstore through the summer until Homecoming this fall.

Proceeds benefit the Be A Bear Scholarship Fund, which offers scholarships to potential Bears planning to attend Missouri State.