Generous Devils, a nonprofit organization at Arizona State University, is providing graphic design supplies to students who struggle with the cost of materials, according to a March 17 announcement. The initiative was started by Amy Robinson, associate program head of graphic design in The Design School, after seeing firsthand how expensive required art supplies can be for students.
The rising costs of art and design materials have created financial challenges for many ASU students. Generous Devils aims to reduce these barriers by collecting and distributing donated items such as sketchbooks, binders, light pads, hand tools, laptops and more. Robinson said her own experience influenced the project: “One semester, my printing costs hit about $700.” She added that some students have faced difficult choices between purchasing supplies or meeting basic needs: “One student specifically said, ‘I would love to pass your class. But if I do, I can’t feed myself or my siblings.’”
Generous Devils became an official nonprofit this year and is seeking donations during Sun Devil Giving Day on March 19. Supplies are gathered from students finishing courses who no longer need certain items as well as from alumni and community partners. Items range from Color-Aid colored papers—which cost $200 per box—to cameras and large-format printers available for use in the Generous Devils warehouse.
Robinson has made efforts to ensure accessibility for all students needing help with materials: “You don’t have to ask me in front of other people. I try to make it as easy as possible for students to reach out because we have a culture of helping you,” she said.
The welcoming space at Design South on ASU’s Tempe campus includes organized cabinets filled with supplies and furniture donated or purchased through ASU Surplus. Workshops and collaborative events offer additional support beyond material aid.
Robinson hopes Generous Devils will expand its reach across more programs within the Herberger Institute and universitywide. Team member Yi Ning noted they track both economic impact and environmental benefits by calculating the value and weight of donations diverted from landfills.
Arizona State University was named number one in innovation for eight consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report according to their rankings. This recognition highlights ongoing efforts like Generous Devils that support student success through innovative approaches.
In related news about partnerships involving Arizona State University tech startups, according to a press release, Argos Vision is developing smart traffic cameras with the City of Phoenix Street Transportation Department that could improve safety through data analysis during a one-year pilot program.
