Graphic Designer at HQ Wins Director/CEO Challenge Coin Contest

Director/CEO Tom Shull presents awards to Graphic Designer Derek Lancaster. 

A military brat from the Exchange’s graphic design team was selected as the winner of a recent contest to design a new coin for the Director/CEO. Derek Lancaster was presented the new coin from Exchange Director/CEO Tom Shull on July 10.

“Derek’s design is truly awesome,” Shull said. “This coin connects the Exchange’s 124-year-old ‘We Go Where You Go’ mission and core values with the logos of the Army and Air Force. It’s the perfect symbol of who we are and who we serve.”

Lancaster grew up in a military family—his parents retired from the Air Force. He worked in a base commissary until he finished his arts degree.

“After nearly 20 years working as a designer for various companies, I returned to work for the Exchange in January 2017,” Lancaster said. “I feel like I’ve come full circle.”

Eighty-three associates submitted coin designs.

Service members at Exchange headquarters voted, and five associates’ designs were chosen as finalists:

• Mario Baltierra, communication specialist (Dallas HQ)
• Peter Frigillana, senior graphic designer (Dallas HQ)
• Derek Lancaster, senior graphic designer (Dallas HQ)
• Sue Marble, human resources manager (Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.)
• Victor Smith, visual merchandiser (Fort Bliss, Texas)

Mr. Shull made the final decision.

The coin designed by HQ Graphic Designer Derek Lancaster.

This year’s contest was Lancaster’s first time designing a coin, and his first entering the contest, which is held every few years. Mr. Shull gives the coins to exceptional associates, which is also a long-standing military tradition.

“I know I’m surrounded by a lot of exceptionally creative talent at the Exchange, so I felt it was important to make sure the presentation of the design was just as good as the concept itself,” Lancaster said. “After experimenting with many colors and graphic elements, I decided to keep it simple and focus on two key materials – gold and silver, and how they represent the Army and Air Force.”

Photos by Chuck Hatton