Distinguished Alumna

D i s t i n g u i s h e d AlumnA

College of Design Selects Natalie S. Chanin as Distinguished Alumna Award Winner

Eighteen alumni were honored for their achievements at the NC State Alumni Association’s Fourth Annual Evening ofStars Gala at Prestonwood Country Club in Cary in November. Each of NC State’s 10 colleges, the Wolfpack Club and the Alumni Association celebrated alumni for their successes in their careers and their contributions to their communities and to their alma mater. “Each ofour honorees is a talented, extraordinary individual, who adds value to an NC State diploma and serves as an inspiration for others, as well as being a worthy role model for our current students,” said Chancellor James L. Oblinger during the evening’s ceremony. “They are achievers ofthe highest order— alumni who are making a difference in their communities, in our state and in the world.”

Natalie S. Chanin (BED 1987) ofFlorence, Ala., received a Distinguished Alumna Award from the College ofDesign. Chanin worked in the United States and abroad for 22 years as a costume designer and stylist before returning to her native Alabama to film a short documentary, “Stitch”. During the documentary’s filming, she co-founded Project Alabama, launching a couture line that produced handsewn garments using Depressionera quilting and stitching techniques that were beautiful and durable. Project Alabama earned national accolades for its creativity, beauty and celebration ofthe past. In 2006, Project Alabama ceased operations and Chanin launched Alabama Chanin, where she continues to create limited-edition, handmade jewelry, clothing, home furnishings and textiles made with recycled and organic materials. Made and signed by a team ofmore than 30 local artisans, Alabama Chanin designs are steeped in traditions that emphasize quality of cut, detail, craftsmanship and style. Although Chanin could not be present at the Evening ofthe Stars event, Chandra Cox and Michael Pause accepted the award on her behalf. Chanin prepared a DVD ofher work.