Inspired again.

I am writing to praise your May 2005 cover story about black designers (Form @ Function"). I am a 26-year-old industrial designer working for a product development company in Chicago. I am the only African American on a staff of about 20 employees. Not only was your article informative, it was uplifting.

The article was a great educational tool for business professionals who have no clue about how important design is to the "bottom line." Design, or lack thereof, can make or break your products and your company.

The May issue was the first issue of BLACK ENTERPRISE I have read. I came across the article because my mother reads the magazine regularly. I had recently become frustrated with my career in industrial design and was thinking of leaving the profession altogether when she handed me the article and told me, "Son, you need to read this."

I feel pride and an increased self-worth seeing "one of our own" accomplish the same goals I set for myself. I would like to express my gratitude to all black designers, past and present, for being pioneers. We are still blazing a trail for future generations. Thanks to your article, BE, my spirit is revitalized.

Glen C. Gilmore III

[e-mail]

Chicago