Game Changer Award acknowledges significant contributions of a practitioner by being a champion, advocate, and mentor for a new generation of game creators.
The Game Changer Award is a special honor that recognizes significant, global contributions of practitioners who inspire and mentor new generations of game creators. Asi Burak, Co-President of Games for Change, reiterated why Schell is deserving of this year’s award:
“Through his work, teaching, and incredibly successful talks, Jesse inspires young game designers and students to look at their craft beyond its commercial value. He has become one of the most vocal voices in support of the transformational power of digital games. And Jesse walks the walk by dedicating much of his studio's work to educational and social change related projects. Jesse is a perfect role model for aspiring designers, as throughout his career he has led by giving back: sharing his knowledge, expertise and enabling others to excel.”
Additionally, Schell’s studio, Schell Games, is sponsoring an initiative called “Game Designers of Tomorrow,” which provides 100 students with discounted admission to the Games for Change Festival. The initiative also invites ten universities to provide complimentary access to two game design students who exhibit a passion in gaming, as well as potential for advancing social impact. More details about the Game Designers of Tomorrow initiative are below.
The Games for Change Festival will take place from June 17-19 at New World Stages in New York City. Hosted and created by Games for Change, a non-profit that catalyzes social impact through digital games, the Games for Change Festival is the largest gaming event in New York City and the leading international event uniting game creators with others interested in accessing and furthering the positive social impact of games. Over the years, the festival has played host to speakers ranging from VP Al Gore to the Honorable Sandra Day O’Connor.
For a limited time only, Games for Change is offering students reduced prices for its 10th Anniversary Festival. The first 100 students interested in the promotion can register for $100 for all three days of the Festival using the promo code “designtomorrow.” Only currently enrolled students are eligible to enter (a valid student ID will be required).
