Creative graphic design
As an accomplished, degree-holding graphic design and marketing professional, I bring a wealth of experience from both the private sector and academia. My portfolio showcases a diverse range of content across traditional and digital media, with particular expertise in interactive web technologies that seamlessly integrate text, graphics, images, sound, and video.
Leading complex design projects, I consistently deliver sophisticated solutions that elevate brands—notably expanding Western Michigan University's visual identity. My ability to collaborate effectively, meet deadlines, and stay within budget has been key to my success in executing projects of varying complexities.
With a keen eye for modern design trends and confident communication skills, I connect with diverse audiences to bring visions to life. Whether you're interested in discussing cutting-edge design, strategic marketing, fine art, the Broncos, or even Michigan's weather, I invite you to reach out and explore how we can create something extraordinary together.
Design is the method of putting form and content together. Design, just as art, has multiple definitions; there is no single definition. Design can be art. Design can be aesthetics. Design is so simple, that's why it is so complicated.—Paul Rand
Focused creative
W Magazine: Printed quarterly, overseeing the design process, collaborating closely with writers, editors and the University photographer to bring the magazine to life. Art directing and selecting the perfect imagery and crafting compelling layouts—every detail is carefully considered. This dynamic and fast-paced environment pushes me to explore innovative design solutions that reflect the unique spirit of Western Michigan University while maintaining a visually stunning and cohesive aesthetic. The W Magazine has been a platform to merge creativity, storytelling, and creative design, resulting in a publication that engages and inspires its readers.
Recruitment: Admissions viewbook and other recruiting pieces, housing viewbook, University strategic plan, marketing and strategic communications for Western Michigan University accountability report, annual reports, visual identity program booklet, brand booklet, posters, postcards, digital billboard advertising, just to list a few.
Campaigns: Expertise in creating a combination of digital, web and print. The link provided, shows an example of a landing page that accompanied a campaign to drive families to visit campus for one of several Admissions Admitted Student events.
Quality control: Coordinate production of printed, web or digital assets. Coordinate client meetings to prepare proofs, confirm deadlines, discuss budgets, and ensure completion of project deadlines and budgets by guiding the client through the process. Manage and coordinate production of finished designs with vendors. Write specifications to obtain bids, prepare design mock-ups, storyboards, verify proofs, and attend press checks.
Visual identity: Art direct photoshoots for video for print, digital assets or photography database. Support and consult WMU colleges and departments and provide art assets that meet visual identity guidelines.
Part of the multi-department design team, overhaul the branding at Western Michigan University. Helped create the new brand and visual identity guidelines, website re-design, create downloadable assets available to campus. Troubleshoot campus requests.
Eye-catching display using visual and graphic elements promoting Western’s brand at an event.
Social media digital ad series.
Digital and multi-media
Video: working with video assets, editing and refining to create visual impact and storytelling.
User experience: Considering the user journey and interaction with the multimedia content. Working with the web team to update the Western Michigan University website, enhancing the usability and improve SEO. This is a University, several year initiative.
For the web: Design wireframes in Adobe XD—websites, landing pages, build content in the management system Drupal. Produce social media assets, and a variety of marketing assets that align with marketing strategic goals.