by Jackie Nunnery of Rappahannock Record
Audrey Dawson’s creativity has garnered nationwide attention in a contest sponsored by SC Johnson Professional, a global maker of cleaning and hygiene products. Among 300 entries, Dawson is one of five middle/high school students across the country chosen as finalists in the “Happy Hands” dispenser design contest.
“We were impressed by the creativity and effort students put into communicating this idea through their designs, which made the selection highly competitive,” said Bryant Davis, vice president and general manager of North America, SC Johnson Professional.
Dawson’s design features a hand with Taylor Swift Eras Tour-inspired friendship bracelets that encourage everyone to “Wash Your Hands.” Dawson said it took her about two weeks to come up with and complete the watercolor pencil design. And in an astute marketing move worthy of Swift’s own known prowess in promotion, she chose the design because “it would be popular and would get more votes.”
If Dawson’s design is chosen, the school will receive a $1,000 donation and Dawson will receive a $300 gift card. The school also will receive up to 1,000 soap/sanitizer dispensers custom-printed with the winning design. She is “excited” by the opportunity and if she wins, plans on putting the money towards buying a car.
Dawson is an eighth grader at Northumberland Middle School and the daughter of Lewis and Ashley Dawsonof Reedville. She is in the Art Talented Club and loves drawing, doodling and painting portraits. This is not the first time her artwork has been noteworthy. Art teacher Heather Cockrell said Dawson’s work placed second in the Lion’s Club Peace Poster contest, and is currently on display at the Northumberland Public Library through winter.