HU Architecture to Host Disney Imagineering

Hampton, VA -The Hampton University Department of Architecture will host representatives from Walt Disney Imagineering team on Monday, Sept. 28. They will present the 2010 Walt Disney ImagiNations design competition to students from all different majors at two presentations held in Bemis Laboratories at 1p.m. and 3p.m.

The competition is designed to find fresh talent in students. It is used to select interns who will help Disney design rides, hotels, and other attractions not yet imagined for Disney theme parks and resorts.

The competition is open to all university students that may be interested in architecture, digital art and animation, interior design, theater design, engineering, creative writing, fine art, media production and construction management.

Finalists in the competition earn a 10-day all-expense-paid trip to Anaheim, Calif. to present their projects to Imagineering executives. Finalists will also have a chance to earn an internship with Walt Disney Imagineering.

“Two of our recent architecture graduates are working as Imagineers today,” said Shannon Chance, HU associate professor of architecture. “I hope one day soon Disney’s roster will include talented and creative students from many majors. We’re inviting students and faculty from dozens of majors to participate this year.”

HU’s architecture students have done well in past competitions. Dexter Tanksley ’93 participated in the first competition and as a result currently serves as principal facility designer with Walt Disney Imagineering. Nikkolas Smith ’08 and Justin Harris ’08 were finalist in the 2007 competition, worked as interns and recently secured full time positions with Walt Disney Imagineering.

For more information about the competition contact the Department of Architecture at (757) 727-5440.