Yada Ponpittayalert, who is earning her MEd in the Department of Learning Design and Technology (LTEC), was awarded the Dr. R. W. “Buddy” Burniske Memorial LTEC Student Internship Award for 2024. Annually since 2007, one LTEC master’s student has been recognized by the Buddy Burniske Memorial Fund for their outstanding master’s project work. This is the first Burniske award for an internship, which comes with a cash award.
“I am deeply humbled and honored to be the first recipient of the Burniske Award to expand its scope beyond master’s projects,” Ponpittayalert said. “This distinction connects me to the enduring legacy of Dr. R. W. Buddy Burniske whose dedication to innovation, research, and meaningful contributions to the field of education continue to inspire. The award embodies a commitment to advancing impactful work that bridges the gaps between education, technology, and societal change.”
After a review of the nominees by a faculty selection committee, Ponpittayalert was selected as the winner for having served as the Communication and Design Intern with the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs at the United Nations Secretariat in New York from May to July 2024.
“We are very proud that Yada was selected for the United Nations Secretariat internship,” LTEC Chair Peter Leong said. “Her hard work in securing this prestigious position as well as her outstanding academic performance is deserving of this inaugural internship award. Mahalo to the Burniske family, especially Mrs. Penelope Burniske, for generously expanding the Buddy Burniske Memorial award to include an internship award.”
As an intern, Ponpittayalert worked alongside at team of professionals, observing the intersection of global policy, advocacy, and design as well as exploring how strategic communication design can make critical information accessible. With her background in learning design, she was able to develop visual content that resonated with diverse audiences, focusing on educating social media users about the dangers of hate speech, disinformation, and misinformation.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Burniske family, Dr. Daniel Hoffman, Dr. Peter Leong, the LTEC department, and the East-West Center,” Ponpittayalert said. “Their support not only made this experience possible but also empowered me to pursue my aspirations of creating meaningful impact through design. This experience has solidified my commitment to using design as a tool to ensure that education and communication remain accessible and impactful in the digital age.”
About Buddy Burniske
Buddy Burniske Memorial Fund
