the State of black design
thursday, Feb. 19 -
friday, feb. 20, 2027
Stakes Is High (SIH) gathers designers, students, educators, community partners, and creatives at the Stanford University and the d.school for three days of community design, career exploration, and collective wellness in partnership with the State of Black Design (SoBD).
Like the March 2026 gathering, SIH will include studio workshops, community gatherings, a record shop pop-up experience, a vendor marketplace, a career fair, and a concert night across the d.school and partnering locations on campus.
conference
our mission
To create pathways, visibility, and equity for designers while inspiring innovation across industries.
what to expect
Keynote talks from design leaders and cultural innovators
Workshops with practical tools and strategies
A career fair connecting talent with top companies
Networking with a national community of designers, educators, and recruiters
our reach
Since its launch, the State of Black Design has connected thousands of creatives, sparked collaborations across industries, and inspired students to pursue design careers.
Community
who should attend
Designers, students, educators, recruiters, community leaders, and anyone who believes design can drive culture, equity, and innovation.
get involved
Spread the word: Share our events with your network.
Join us: Be part of a movement that’s bigger than any single discipline.
“The SoBD conference has not only been an inspiration, but a breath of fresh air for the design field in today’s chaotic world. Thank you to everyone working behind the scenes and continuing to push forward”
— Jamil Ford, SOBD attendee
“We don’t just host a conference, we create a sanctuary where designers, allies, and advocates come together to share, affirm, and imagine what’s possible.”
— Omari Souza, Founder of State of Black Design and Assistant Professor
