Ever since I’ve become aware of RISD alum Stuart Karten’s ultra-tiny hearing aid design, I’ve noted this svelte device in the ear of one of the world’s authorities on sustainable design and also in the ear of a prominent US politician. Karten’s elegant design has clearly transformed the image of a “hearing aid” from one of debilitation to empowerment for many.

On the left pictured here is RISD alum Ann Harakawa ‘78 GL, principal of Two Twelve Associates at the National Design Awards ceremony.