This talk was Design, with a capital "D". Bennett delivered it at a time, that was for me, very important. I teach in and run the CD department at The Cleveland Institute of Art, and the end of the semester is a mad dash of everything except our love of design. Bennett helped me fall in love with my field again—his insight coupled with his large, warm heart ran through everything he said and showed us. Bennett is someone worth hearing, his message of international inclusion and "Form Follows Culture" is key to the world we find ourselves in now. Bennett's enthusiasm is amazing. He seems to have an energy that does not quit. Sleepy old Cleveland really needed this injection of pure excitement about design and the creative process. Kudos for a badly needed dose of Design into this stressed out world.

Bennett Peji s speech was inspiring and thought provoking. A personality connected to ones cultural heritage is a good thing. Often the education in graphic design schools does not take into account the background of students. They are led to believe that as far as their professional life is concerned jumping into the melting pot of the mainstream culture is the safe way to choose. However, their past could be a bridge to the future and standing out from the crowd. I am glad there are designers like Bennett Peji who foster cultural respect and emphasize on the positive knowledge of different countries with successful design solutions.

I recently attended this lecture and found it truly invigorating. Not only did the topic challenge my creative process but it opened my eyes to a new way of analyzing problems.

It's pretty awesome, especially as a student, when designers from outside the Cleveland bubble come into town and share their thoughts. We were lucky to not just get a designer, but someone who has transcended past the idea of design as just a physical process. Bennett's approach and explanations of decisions were great to hear, and really showed that great design is more than just something you look at. All in all, it was great. Also, his speech at our graduation ceremony two days later was superb. I have to imagine its tough speaking to a crowd of artists and designers when your coming from a design background. He handled it well, thanks Bennett.

I heard Bennett at the Cleveland Institute of Art 2009 Graduation Ceremony, where he was the keynote speaker. He surprised me by his honesty about the reality of the Design business, and at the same time he encouraged these young students to live by their passion and focus on their dreams. It was a good choice from the school to have him at the ceremony.

I can't get Bennett's stories out of my head. He is not only an incredible designer but a cultural anthropologist. His keep perception and critical assessment have led to implementing progress beyond design problems. He has made the world a better place and his generous approach to sharing information and the back stories to his work made him one of the best speakers I have ever heard.Bravo Cleveland for bringing him here and thanks!