Highlighting the Triumph of Wilson College of Textiles' Achievements
North Carolina State University Alumnus Designs Iconic Bookmark for Wilson College of Textiles
In a serendipitous turn of events, Willie Bowen, a native of Rhine, Georgia, designed the first bookmark for the Wilson College of Textiles at North Carolina State University (NC State) in 1959. This historical detail, although not widely documented, marks a significant milestone in Bowen's life and the college's bookmark program.
Bowen's academic journey began at NC State University in 1956, where he studied textiles. His dedication to his studies was evident, as he graduated in just three years, topping his class. During his final year, he was given a unique opportunity to design the college's bookmark as part of a deal with his professor.
Before his final semester, Bowen received a $500 scholarship from American Enka, a sum that, when adjusted for inflation, would be worth over $5,150 today. This scholarship, along with the G.I. Bill, which allowed Bowen to attend college after serving in the Air Force for four-and-a-half years in England, played a crucial role in his academic success.
Bowen's design for the bookmark required at least three four-foot by four-foot designs made by hand. The intricate and detailed design showcased his talent and passion for textiles. After graduation, Bowen chose to work for the Tennessee Eastman Company, a division of the Eastman Kodak Company.
Fast forward to recent times, the Wilson College of Textiles' bookmark program has created more than 60 woven keepsakes since its inception in 1959. An annual design competition is now held, involving students, faculty, staff, and alumni, to create the graphic for the following year's bookmark. The theme for the 2023 competition is "Wilson for Life."
In 2022, Bowen established the Willie C. Bowen Family Scholarship Endowment through his estate, a testament to the support he received from his alma mater. His hope is that the scholarship will help financially struggling students who deserve it, much like the scholarship he received in 1959.
Lilly Barozzini, a Centennial Scholar and a fashion and textile design student, was honored to have her design grace the 2022 bookmark, following in the footsteps of Willie Bowen, a pioneer in the Wilson College of Textiles' bookmark program.
Despite the lack of widely known or documented public information about Willie Bowen’s design of the first Wilson College of Textiles bookmark and its impact on his life or the college's bookmark program, his legacy continues to inspire students and alumni at NC State University. For those interested in delving deeper into this niche historical detail, consulting specialized archives or historical records from Wilson College of Textiles is recommended.
- Willie Bowen, who designed the first bookmark for North Carolina State University's Wilson College of Textiles in 1959, graduated in just three years, topping his class.
- The intricate and detailed design of the bookmark created by Bowen showcased his passion for textiles.
- Bowen chose to work for the Tennessee Eastman Company after graduation.
- In recent times, the Wilson College of Textiles' bookmark program has created more than 60 woven keepsakes since 1959.
- Lilly Barozzini, a fashion and textile design student, was honored to have her design grace the 2022 bookmark, following in Bowen's footsteps.
- In 2022, Bowen established the Willie C. Bowen Family Scholarship Endowment through his estate to help financially struggling students.
- For those interested in learning more about Willie Bowen’s design of the first Wilson College of Textiles bookmark, consulting the archives or historical records from Wilson College of Textiles is recommended.
