Carry the Flame Design Challenge
Reimagining the Elms Flame: A Call to Creativity
As we embark on our second century of excellence in providing an exceptional education for future women leaders, Our Lady of the Elms School is thrilled to rejuvenate an enduring emblem: the Elms flame.
And we need your help.
The flame has long been a symbol of the light our students carry into the world—a light of purpose, confidence, faith, and sisterhood. Now, as we look to the future, we invite our entire community, including our students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumnae, to help us refresh and modernize this iconic emblem. Together, let’s create a design that not only honors our rich tradition but also reflects the bold, resilient spirit of the future Elms girl.
About the Flame
The Elms flame embodies the heart of our mission: to light the way for young women to grow as leaders, learners, and individuals of faith. It’s a symbol of strength, sisterhood, and the lasting impact of an Elms education. The flame is the light of our past, and it carries us through today, lighting the path to a future yet to be defined.
Currently, the Elms flame is separated into three sections:
The upper section, or tip, of the flame represents our past.
The middle section of the flame represents our present life.
The lower section of the flame represents the path leading to our future.
Whether you’re walking through our halls, spotting a graduate making a difference in the world, or celebrating milestones in our community, the flame reminds us of who we are and the brighter future we’re shaping together.
The Challenge
We’re looking for a design that captures the essence of Our Lady of the Elms School and resonates with everyone who sees it.
When people around Akron and beyond see this flame, we want them to immediately think of the Elms. Our school has been a cherished part of this community for more than 100 years, and we’re not going anywhere but forward—out into the world to do great things.
We’re inviting you to imagine a flame that’s:
Timeless yet modern: A design that respects our heritage but feels fresh and relevant.
Distinctive: Something unmistakable and uniquely ours.
Inspiring: A symbol that embodies light, hope, and the future of empowered young women.
This is more than a design contest. It’s an opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the legacy of Our Lady of the Elms School. Whether you’re an artist, a designer, or simply someone with a creative spark, your vision could become part of Elms history.
Design Challenge Guidelines
Here’s how to participate:
Eligibility: The contest is open to all members of the Elms community, including students, alumnae, parents, faculty, and staff of the school.
Design Focus:
Redesign the flame emblem only. The flame should remain the central focus and reflect the values of Our Lady of the Elms School.
Format and Dimensions:
Digital Submissions: Submit your design as a PNG file with a size of 1080x1080 pixels (square dimensions)
Physical Submissions: Printed or hand-drawn artwork may also be submitted. Please ensure designs are in a square format and turned in to Amber Hejl, Director of Marketing & Communications, by Friday, February 28.
Color Palette:
A specific color palette will be provided for inspiration. While you are encouraged to use these colors, creativity within this palette is welcome!
Readability:
Your design should be clean, bold, and easy to interpret. Avoid overly intricate details that may be hard to see from afar.
Submission Deadline:
All submissions must be received by Friday, February 28. (Submission instructions below.)
Selection and Judging:
A panel of three to five diverse judges will review and evaluate all submissions.
Submissions will be evaluated on creativity, relevance, and alignment with the Elms’ values.
Prize and Recognition
The top three finalists will be announced at a special school event and celebrated with prizes.
The winning design will become an emblem of Our Lady of the Elms School’s next chapter, seen on school materials, apparel, and more.
The top 3 finalists will win:
A custom Elms sweatshirt featuring their winning design!
Recognition at a special unveiling event!
A mini-fridge—perfect for bedrooms, offices, or at home!
$50 cash + a $25 gift card of their choice
How To Submit Your Design
Digital Submissions: Email your design to Amber Hejl, Director of Marketing & Communications, with the subject line "Elms Flame Contest Submission." Include your full name, your connection to the Elms (e.g., student, alumna, faculty, etc.) and an optional brief explanation of your inspiration for your design.
Physical Submissions: Turn in printed or hand-drawn artwork to Amber Hejl, Director of Marketing & Communications, in the Upper School.
Join Us in Carrying the Flame
This is your chance to be part of something truly special. Help us reimagine the Elms flame and create a symbol that will inspire generations to come.
Ready to ignite your creativity? Start designing today!
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