Laura Judith Sandoval Sarmiento and Jorge Alberto Vega Rivera, professors from the Design Department of our Alma Mater, have been nominated for the XXI 'Lápiz de Acero' Award. Professor Laura has been nominated for the project 'Catalog of the Typographic Heritage of the University of Cauca,' while Professor Jorge Alberto is nominated for the video game 'Oí Marimbí,' the first video game for children inspired by the Colombian Pacific.

On one hand, the project 'Catalog of the Typographic Heritage of the University of Cauca,' led by Professor Laura Sandoval, is nominated in the Concept/Print category. This nomination recognizes the work of the 'Typographic Studies' research group and its seedbed 'Type Lovers,' from our Alma Mater, who have dedicated ten years to recovering typographic material that became obsolete when the university press shifted to new printing technologies like offset and digital printing. This project revitalizes collective memory, recovers and preserves the graphic heritage, not only of our educational institution but of the entire region. According to Professor Laura, this project constitutes one of the most important collections in Latin America, as much of this material has been dismantled due to technological changes in printing workshops. She expressed, "The nomination is recognition of our work in recovering typographic heritage and traditional crafts like that of the typographer. Additionally, the 'Lápiz de Acero' Award is a significant space for the national design community, allowing us to discuss disciplinary perspectives, discover new professional realms, and provide innovative solutions to specific social issues," stated Professor Laura joyfully, proud to be part of such a space.

Regarding the video game 'Oí Marimbí,' by Professor Jorge Alberto Vega, it's essential to highlight that this is the first video game for children inspired by the Colombian Pacific. This nomination for the 'Lápiz de Acero' Award recognizes the quality of design, representing a significant experience for promoting our country's cultural richness and fostering intergenerational dialogue. "The nomination for the 'Lápiz de Acero' Award is a crucial boost for the work we've been carrying out for over five years within a team comprised of the University of Cauca, the Instituto Departamental de Bellas Artes de Cali, Intuitiva, and La Valiente estudio. Our video game is distributed for free on major App Stores, and our goal is to reach as many users as possible. Therefore, this recognition serves to bring more visibility to the creative work we've accomplished," expressed Professor Jorge Alberto.

The 'Lápiz de Acero' Award emerged in 1998 as an initiative of the editorial project 'Proyectodiseño' to amplify the visibility of entrepreneurs and designers, evolving into one of the most significant recognition platforms nationwide for creative individuals. The award honors professionals, design agencies, students, and projects distinguished by their quality, originality, and innovation across fields such as graphic design, communication design, industrial design, brand design, editorial design, among others.

Thus, from a University of Excellence and Solidarity, we celebrate the nomination of two of our professors within various categories of the 'Lápiz de Acero' Award. We highlight their efforts in achieving this milestone and express our gratitude for undertaking projects of such high academic caliber. This institution will always be at your service to fulfill your greatest dreams.