Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Graphic Design Technology student Mariacelina “Mari” Corneiro has been selected as the winner of the 2026 Mississippi Career and Technical Education (CTE) Conference cover design contest, earning top honors among entries submitted by community college students across the state.

Hosted by the Mississippi Community College Board, the competition invited students enrolled in CTE programs at Mississippi’s 15 community colleges to create an original program cover design reflecting the conference theme: “Innovation in Action: CTE and Workforce for a Stronger Mississippi. Equipping Students. Supporting Educators. Fueling Industry.”

“I wanted to design something that could incorporate all of the jobs that fell under the CTE program,” Corneiro said. “So, everyone can be seen.”

Corneiro’s design was selected in late April, following a competitive submission process that began in February and concluded with an April 2 deadline. Entries were required to emphasize career and technical education, incorporate official branding elements, and meet professional design standards.

The winning design will be featured as the official cover of the 2026 Mississippi CTE Conference program, scheduled for July 22–24 in Tupelo. Corneiro and MGCCC will also be recognized during the conference, as well as highlighted on conference materials and the event website.

“This is an incredible achievement for Mari and a reflection of the talent we see every day in our Graphic Design program,” said Tracy Williams, Graphic Design Technology instructor at MGCCC’s Perkinston Campus. “Her work not only met the design criteria but captured the spirit of career and technical education in a creative and meaningful way. We are very proud of her.”

The contest required all submissions to be original and conceptually aligned with workforce development, ensuring that students showcased both technical skill and creative interpretation. Corneiro’s winning design stood out among submissions from across the state for its strong visual impact and alignment with the conference’s mission.

This recognition provides Corneiro with a valuable addition to her professional portfolio and résumé, further preparing her for a successful career in graphic design. It also highlights the strength of MGCCC’s Career and Technical Education programs and reinforces the college’s commitment to developing skilled, workforce-ready graduates.

“Art has brought me so many joys,” Corneiro said. “I am looking forward to continuing to share it with the world.”

For more information about MGCCC’s Graphic Design Technology program, visit www.mgccc.edu/graphic-design-technology.