Beth Van Why's journey to Philadelphia began with a pursuit of knowledge and a deep admiration for the city's creative pulse. As she embarked on her graduate studies under the guidance of Jamer Hunt, she was drawn to the rich tapestry of design and culture that Philadelphia offered."He is a wonderful mentor," she recalls fondly, "and his influence was a big part of why I came to Philadelphia".

As we sat down for a chat, Van Why's enthusiasm for both the city and its design community was palpable. Reflecting on the early days of DesignPhiladelphia, she spoke with a mix of nostalgia and  admiration for the festival's origins. "Those early days were filled with excitement and experimentation," she says. "It was a time when the festival was finding its footing, and we were all eager to see where it would go."

Van Why's memories of the festival's beginnings are a testament to its role in shaping the city's design landscape. "There was a genuine sense of community and collaboration," she noted."We were all learning and growing together, and it felt like every event was a new adventure." As our conversation continued, Van Why's insights into the festival's evolution were interspersed with anecdotes that highlighted the challenges and triumphs of those formative years. "It wasn't always easy," she admitted, "but there was always a sense of purpose and passion driving us forward."

These reflections serve as a reminder of the dedication and vision that have been instrumental in DesignPhiladelphia's growth Her story is one of commitment to a city that has embraced and nurtured its creative spirit,and her journey is a testament to the festival's enduring impact.