As I build the suite of graphic design focused courses for Saint Michael’s, I am using my professional experience as a guide. My curriculum consists of projects that are inspired by real-world applications and integrate learned fundamentals and use of industry-standard programs.

I create a solid foundation of art/design skills (using art as a form of effective visual communication and expression), concept development skills (the ability to brainstorm to form unusual and unexpected solutions)  and verbal communications skills (the ability to explain your work and why you did it).

Each project encourages students to explore and use an additional tool in their designer tool box, to become further aware of power each foundational principle holds in its ability to express and be interpreted. Along the way we examine how to manipulate the meaning making of line, shape, color and thus in my projects and classes the journey is just as important as the destination.

With a focus on curiosity, problem solving, and concept development means that the graphic design classes I am creating serve and benefit any and all students at SMC. Yes! I am creating a path of classes and projects that will guide Art & Design majors in creating a strong portfolio of work that showcases their strengths. But. I am also helping accounting, or biology, or poli-sci students, that take only one design class, to think and express differently than they have previously learned. Students are guided through the design process for each project; this process of research, ideation, creation, and refinement is useful in any problem solving setting from making a logo to writing public policy and fighting climate change. And in this idea, I hope to make any student that takes a class with me a more creative and compassionate thinker.

Courses developed and taught, Fall 2020-Fall23