In 1998, Sofia Calderwood, jeweler and metalsmith, was invited to design the Award sculpture.  Her design references a book and is composed of a cast bronze frame which holds five glass prisms which are intended to capture the concept of diversity in a multicultural world.  Just as the light-bending qualities of a prism encourages the observer to see light at an angle, so too, multicultucultural literature gives us glimpses into the realities and lives of others. The dark patina of the metalwork highlights the prisms’ clear and transparent properties.

Engraved in the award are the recipient’s name and the year the award is granted.  The sculpture is contained in a case covered in buckram fabric. An brass plate set in the case contains an etching of the Virginia Hamilton Conference logo and the title of the award.