The Rowena Group was established in 1988 to celebrate and communicate the teaching methodology of one of the most recognized design educators of the 20th century. In the 1930s, Rowena, Donald Dohner, and Alexander Kostellow developed the 3-D design pedagogy that became the foundation of Pratt Institute’s industrial design program. She taught five generations of designers and educators. Today, Rowena’s teachings are part of industrial design programs worldwide.

‍The Rowena Group grew from the aspirations of Pratt industrial design graduates gathered at Miss Reed’s 1988 memorial who wanted a meaningful way to honor a beloved teacher and mentor. The Group is a 100% volunteer organization that promotes her teachings through awards, scholarships, books, and other initiatives.

James Fulton, then Chair of the Pratt Institute Board of Trustees, proposed creating a fund in Rowena’s honor to provide a permanent source of support for advancing three-dimensional design and visual communication, which was the core of her work. In 1990, the Board formally established the Rowena Reed Kostellow Scholarship Fund. The Fund has since raised over $150,000.

We invite you to join us in keeping Rowena’s legacy alive. Please consider donating to the Pratt Rowena Reed Kostellow Scholarship Fund and attending our annual Designer Award ceremony.