I am a designer, educator, and entrepreneur whose academic and professional trajectory spans multiple design disciplines. An action-oriented, optimistic problem solver, I engage both sides of my brain to create, strategize, and effect meaningful change. Taking creative risks defines my approach to design and to life. Throughout my career, three themes emerge:AN ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET: I work both independently and collaboratively on projects of high value and integrity. I have experience leading a business with $3m in sales and a creative team of 20. As founder of Paintbox Press, I leverage relationships with fellow designers and architects to publish a series of books that introduce aspiring young innovators to design—identifying a market for authentic resources on creative professions targeted to 21st-century learners. In addition, I have proposed, negotiated, and produced 3-D books with world-class properties such as the Tour de France.INTERDISCIPLINARITY: My interests cross boundaries: communication design, storytelling, fashion, and performing arts. I find spaces where disciplines intersect to be most intriguing. As executive director of the nonprofit Kids Design Collaborative, I oversee the development of an online design resource that curates content that keeps kids up-to-date with what's happening in the world of design, while functioning as a forum for student creativity. Named one of the American Library Association's "Great Websites for Kids".INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITY: My doctoral research explored how educators construct challenges that provide opportunities for students to take creative risks, a key component of innovation. My research was funded in part by a grant from AIGA, the professional association for design, for its potential to impact the future of design education. I seek to amplify my education, leadership skills, creative practice, and research by joining an innovation-driven university or forward-thinking corporate culture.KEYWORDS:
Listed skills include Graphic Design, Entrepreneurship, Teaching, Public Speaking, and 16 others.