FALL 2026
CAREER + GRADUATE SCHOOL FAIR PARTICIPANT RESUMES
TABLE OF CONTENTS MAJORS Animation Drawing Game Design Graphic Design Illustration Industrial Design Life Science Illustration Sculpture + Expanded Media
*Resumes are submitted by students and alumni who registered for the Fall 2026 Career Fair
ANIMATION
https://jmabounader.myportfolio.com janeabounaderr@gmail.com
Fallon Blackshire
Cleveland, Ohio | fallon.blackshire@gmail.com | Phone Number | Portfolio EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
May 2028
RELATED EXPERIENCE Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Digital Project Support Tutor • • •
Guided students through unfamiliar digital programs to ensure their understanding and build their ability to work on projects using them. Critiqued projects to assist students in the finalization and refinement of their school and personal work. Recorded meetings and forwarded resources to stimulate students after the meeting time to ensure their understanding of concepts covered.
Student Artwork Sale • •
• •
December 2025
Budgeted the production of around 100 artistic products from a limited funding to include in a public art sale. Managed and organized a limited table space to optimize the visual display of items to ensure customer readability and accessibility.
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Student Activity Club President •
August 2026 – Present
August 2026 – Present
Directed five executive members by assigning tasks and carry out responsibilities to ensure organized and successful club activities. Planned weekly meetings by matching differing schedules to ensure availability of all members. Communicated with several other club representatives and various faculty members to ensure clear understanding of expectations during collaborations.
KAYLIE GARCIA Cleveland, OH | 216-801-1224 | garcia.kaylie@outlook.com
EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art
2024–Present
Cleveland, OH Bachelor’s Degree in Animation | Minor in Creative Writing
EXPERIENCE Swim Instructor & Front Desk Associate
2026–Present
Goldfish Swim School | Strongsville, OH • Teach swimming lessons to help students develop swimming skills and confidence in the water. • Assist families at the front desk by answering questions and providing customer service to support a welcoming experience. Student Ambassador
2026–Present
Cleveland Institute of Art | Cleveland, OH • Lead campus tours and answer visitors’ questions to help prospective students understand CIA’s programs and student experience. • Support campus events and outreach to connect prospective students with the Cleveland Institute of Art community.
AWARDS & GRANTS CIA Gund Family Scholarship
2024–2026
CIA Grant
2024–2026
SKILLS Animation & Design: 2D animation, 3D animation, rigging, 3D modeling, motion graphics Professional: Customer service, sales, de-escalation, marketing
LANGUAGES English: Native | American Sign Language (ASL): Intermediate
Jessica Johnson 2D Illustrator & Animator
21701 Tracy Ave Euclid, Ohio 44123 (216)820-0216 Jtjohnson3558@gmail.com
EDUCATION ● Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH — Bachelor's Degree—
Animation
Expected 05/2027 Portfolio & Demo Reel:
monkae.artstation.com
● Lakeland Community College, Kirkland, OH— Associate’s Degree— Graphic Design Completed 05/2024
SKILLS Photography Visual communications Pc and Mac platforms 2D design and illustration
EXPERIENCE — Freelance Illustrator & Animator
02/2019-present ●
Consult with clients to discuss ideas and style preferences to create mutually agreeable project parameters.
●
Create illustrations and concepts for visualization, presentation and development purposes.
●
Created concept designs and sketches to develop images and scenes.
Adobe suite proficiency Visual development Knowledge of 2D and 3D animation pipelines Skills in 2D and 3D
Kaman’s Art Shoppe, Sandusky, OH — Cedar Point Caricature Artist 05/ 2025- 8/2025 ●
Curated a welcoming environment for guests through engagement and discussion.
●
Worked closely with guests to incorporate their wants into a single exaggerated composition.
● ● ●
Worked on full exaggerated illustrations quickly and effectively. Worked with a team to collaborate themes, and sketches. Summer Internship
animation Knowledge of Storyboarding and sequential illustration
Shoreline Graphics, Euclid, OH— Graphic Designer 03/2020 - 01/ 2023 ● ● ● ●
Contributed to the creative process through original ideas and inspiration. Collaborated with production on task list creation to meet overall project goals on time. Worked with clients to gather and define requirements, establish scopes and manage project milestones. Completed final touches for projects before rollout.
Kelly Kuisick Cleveland, Ohio | kelly.kuisick@gmail.com | www.linkedin.com/in/kkuisick EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, Ohio Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation Minor in Craft & Design GPA: 3.99
May 2027
Skills: Microsoft Office, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Substance Painter, Autodesk Maya, Toonboom Harmony, Storyboard Pro Relevant Coursework: Critical Issues in Visual Culture, Life Drawing, Graphic Design for Non-Majors, Body Mechanics for Animation, Storyboarding & Sequential Art, Concept Development, 3D Texture Mapping and Digital Lighting, 3D Rigging and Problem Solving
EXPERIENCE Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland Ohio It Gets Better - Short Film Background Artist August 2026-Present ● Background concept development, model blockout, texturing, and lighting in 2D and 3D formats. Specialized Animation - 3D Texturing and Modeling Focus ● 3D modeling and UV Cleanup in Autodesk Maya and hand painted texturing and lighting in Adobe Substance Painter of tool and vehicle assets. Until Perfection - Short Film Story Supervisor, Fabrication Lead, Actor August 2025 - May 2026 ● Pre-production concept writing and storyboarding for production of a 2-5 minute animated film utilizing a virtual production stage ● Physical fabrication, sculpting, and painting of set materials 24HR Animation Challenge Team CAKKE POP!! - Animator October 2024, October 2025, October 2026 ● Worked with a team of 5 students to create a 30 second animation in only 24 hours ● Early concept development, thumbnailing and script writing ● Produced key 2D character animation, prop animation, color, and voice acting Concept Development - Intellectual Property Creation January 2024 - May 2025 ● Developed a pitch for a 2D animated television show based on historical folklore ● Created pre-production assets - color palettes, background layouts, character turnarounds and expressions to prepare for the show’s production pipeline Equipment Checkout - Assistant August 2024 - May 2025 ● Prepared equipment rentals for students and staff in a timely manner ● Answered questions about available equipment and technical requirements for students and staff Academic Services - Note Taker January 2024 - May 2024 ● Gathered thorough, organized notes online for a discussion and analysis course to be published for students with disabilities
AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS CIA Gund Family Scholarship CIA Award for Excellence in Animation
August 2023 - Present August 2025
Viktoriia Ostashuk OH | vostashuk@cia.edu | (440) 656-9971 EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Bachelor in Animation GPA: 3.77
May 2028
Relevant Coursework: Storyboarding & Sequential Art, Intro to 3D Modeling, Intro to 3D Animation, Intro to 2D Animation, Drawing for Animation, Concept Development, Body Mechanics for Animation, 3D Texture Mapping, Motion Graphics Cuyahoga Community College, Strongsville, OH ESL Program
May 2024
EXPERIENCE: Michaels, Strongsville, OH Consultant
December 2022 — Aug 2023
• Maintained positive and respectful interactions with both team members and store’s customers • Was exposed to a large amount of information to provide useful assistance to customers who needed help SKILLS: • Computer/ Software: Adobe Creative Cloud: Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, Substance Painter; Maya, Zbrush, Toon Boom Harmony, Storyboard Pro • Artistic Techniques: 3D Modeling, 3D Texturing, 3D Animating, Rendering, 2D Animating, Concept developing • Languages: English, Ukrainian
Nicholas Rupcich Marysville, Ohio | nicksanimationsandjourneys@gmail.com | (937-303-2701) | Portfolio EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation May 2028 GPA: 3.5 RELATED EXPERIENCES Honda Transmission (TMPO), Russell's Point, OH Finish/Quality (Summer Help)
May 2026 – August 2026
- Maintained consistent quality control over production, enabling efficient, controlled deadline management. - Transported inventory to designated drop-off points promptly, preventing downtime and delays in production schedules. - Reported data to record-based archives, allowing for clear tracking of results and product placement within the production pipeline. Dollar Tree, Marysville, OH Cashier-Merchandiser
May 2024 – January 2025
- Assisted the public with inquiries and issues while maintaining a professional demeanor. - Organized and rotated inventory to maintain cleanliness and prevent product shortages. - Promoted company charities and sales to customers, increasing donations and growing profit margins.
SKILLS - Software: Toon Boom Storyboard Pro, Autodesk Maya, Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects - Artistic Techniques: Character Design, Concept Development, Rendering, 3D Animation, Storyboarding
Aspen Wood Cleveland, OH|aspenthetreee@gmail.com|(216)-337-9204 aspenthetreee.wixsite.com/aspen-animates EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation (In Progress) GPA: 3.78
| August 2024 - Present
WORK EXPERIENCE Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH September 2025 - Present Library Assistant, Gund Library - Practiced book binding, repair, and processing to efficiently preserve archival media. - Interacted regularly with patrons of the library, staff, students, and faculty, helping them successfully access and navigate our media and resources. Waterloo Arts, Cleveland, OH May 2026 - August 2026 Summer Gallery Intern - Interacted welcomingly with visitors and staff to maintain a supportive environment. - Regularly maintained the gallery and studio spaces and helped exhibiting artists set up work to maintain a high-quality gallery space for guests and staff. - Assisted with event planning, community workshops, and open gallery hours, gaining a thorough understanding of implementing community outreach in a studio setting. Zygote Press, Cleveland, OH January 2025 - February 2026 Print Studio+Head Offsite Intern - Engaged with and assisted resident artists with their print work, improving the timeliness in which they completed their work. - Participated in one-on-one demos to improve traditional printmaking skills. - Maintained offsite events, studio spaces, and assisted with classes, workshops, and events, successfully encouraging community members to learn and engage in printing processes. RELATED EXPERIENCE - Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, Toon Boom Harmony, Autodesk Maya, Zbrush, Storyboard Pro, and Microsoft 360 - Exhibitor, Genghis Con Cleveland December 2024, November 2025 - Featured in Scene Cleveland’s Winter Comics Issue January 2025 - Designer of West Park Kamm’s Pop-Ups In The Parks Promotional Poster June 2025 - Exhibiting Artist, Waterloo Arts DayGlo Show March 2026
DRAWING
Annelise Abruzzi aabruzzistudio@gmail.com | Girard, OH | 330.727.5675 Education Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland OH Bachelor of Fine Arts Major: Drawing; GPA: 3.95 Minor: Creative Writing
May 2027
Related Experience Writing + Learning Center, Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH March 2025 - Present Peer Consultant Communicate with students to set and work through goals set for the individual sessions Analyze what the student is expressing and think critically for solutions to help them and their goals Compile session data into an organized spreadsheet and communicate session details to student in follow up emails Past Times Pinball Arcade, Girard, OH June 2023 - May 2026 Seasonal Employee Engage with customers to provide a pleasurable dining experience and deliver food orders to them in a timely manner Communicate with coworkers to efficiently get orders to customers and work flexibly between different stations in the kitchen (milkshakes, fryer, point of sale/POS) Able to work efficiently and multitask during chaotic/busy rushes and maintain clean kitchen and dining area Able to learn and use different computerized cash register POS systems Studio in a School, Cleveland, OH Arts Intern - Artists Archives of the Western Reserve June - August 2026 Archived and accessioned pieces of art based on museum standards for preservation Documented 2D and 3D artwork for archive’s database and online collection Met weekly to develop professional skills which culminated in producing a final presentation to summarize accomplishments and acquired skills Skills Adobe Suite - Photoshop, Lightroom, Premier Pro Microsoft Suite - Word, Excel, Powerpoint Interpersonal - Email + In-person Communication, Collaboration, Scheduling Time Writing - Researching, Editing, Proofreading Drawing - Botanicals, Figure, Portrait in a variety of wet and dry materials Printmaking - Lithography, Screenprint, Editioning
Joshua Cox-Hayes Cleveland Heights Oh, jcox-hayes@cia.edu coxhayesjoshua@gmail.com 216 - 973 - 8027
Job 2024-2026 - Marigold Catering Cleveland Ohio Education 2018 - 2021 - Euclid high school graduate 2024 - 2028 Cleveland Institute of Art pending… Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drawing
Exhibition = 2026 -
Chalk Party Pivot Center
-
Cleveland Institute of Art To What End Va spring show
-
Cleveland Institute of Art The Visual Arts and Craft + Design Exhibition St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Skills -
- Drawing, portrait, Anatomy, Character Design -
Adobe, Photoshop
GAME DESIGN
Alex E. Fisher Email: Fishe03046@gmail.com Phone Number: 216-970-1919
Education Cleveland Institute of Art | Cleveland, OH BFA, Game Design, Visual Culture | Expected May 2028 3.5/4.0 GPA | Gund Scholarship Recipient Cleveland Heights High School | Cleveland Heights, OH 4.5/4.0 GPA | Graduated May 2024 AP Courses: Biology, Environmental Science, US History, Government, Language Arts, Statistics, Art
Job Experience Senior Retail Associate | S'il Vous Play Toys | September 2024 - Present - Foster a welcoming environment for customers and their children, have knowledge of many toy brands, and their features to be able to make informed recommendations to customers - Manage time between customers, restocking shelves, and keeping shop and demo products clean and tidy - Manage end of day profit Orientation Leader | Cleveland Institute of Art | August 2025-Present - Move first-year students into student housing, facilitate tours and activities for first years, answer questions about school life, be a general role model to students throughout the school year - Chaperone and run small group meetings for the annual Emerging Leaders Retreat.
Leadership Roles Art Director for The Encompassed | Aug 2026-Present - Lead small team of artists to create assets, narrative, and mechanics for a 5-7 min demo with a consistent art style and satisfying mechanics - Organize files, manage deadlines and delegate tasks - Collaborate with programmers to integrate assets into the demo level Vice President & Social Media Coordinator | Crochet Club | Aug 2026-Present - Collaborate with club president to plan and host events - Design and promote informational posts and fliers regarding upcoming club events and news Social Media Coordinator | Press Play Print Club | Aug 2025-Present - Create social media posts and posters promoting and recapping events - Assist in planning and hosting club events
Projects The Encompassed | Fall Semester, 2026 - Art Director, Environment Artist, Rough Animator Bitter Batter | Art Center Student Film | Summer, 2026 - Volunteer, Background Artist
Relevant Courses - - - -
2D and 3D Animation 2D and 3D Game Design Level Design and Game Testing Game Development Pipeline: Team Based Projects
Relevant Skills - - -
Group management Leadership Organization
- - -
Collaboration Customer Service Planning
- -
-
Autodesk Maya Adobe Suite Unity/Unreal Engines
Mateo Kraus 65 Executive Drive, Norwalk, OH, mateoikraus@gmail.com, (419) 681-8066 Education Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH
August 2024 - Current Day
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation, Game Design GPA 4.0 ● Studied and practiced industry skills ○ Animation (3D and 2D) ○ Storyboarding ○ Concept Development ○ 3D Modeling ○ Game Design ● Learned and used various creative softwares ○ Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Animator, Illustrator, Substance Painter, Premiere Pro, After Effects) ○ Toon Boom Harmony and Storyboard Pro ○ Maya and ZBrush ○ Unity and Unreal Engine
Norwalk High School, Norwalk, OH
August 2020 - June 2024
Highschool Diploma GPA 4.0, Honor Roll, Principal’s Award, Orchestra President
Stage Acting Experience Norwalk High School, Norwalk, OH Performer (Seasonal) January - March, 2022 - 2024
● Played a lead role in three musical theatre productions for the community ○ Tinman in The Wizard of Oz, 2022 ○ Cornelius in Hello Dolly, 2023 ○ Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast, 2024 ● Practiced choreography, lines, and songs up until the final four performances each year ● Assisted in moving sets and props behind the scenes ● Suggested and helped construction of minor wardrobe elements and props
Sandusky State Theater, Sandusky, OH Performer (Seasonal) Summer, 2018 and 2019
● Played a lead role in two musical theatre productions for the summer program ○ Mowgli in The Jungle Book, 2018 ○ John in Peter Pan, 2019 ● Practiced choreography, lines, and songs up until the performance each year ● Assisted in moving sets and props behind the scenes
Work Experience Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH Ride Operator (Seasonal) May 2025 - August 2025, May 2026 - August 2026 ● Directed guests through security measures and to their desired locations ● Maintained and cleaned the public areas of rides ● Ensured the constant operation of rides during business hours
Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH Games Associate (Seasonal) June 2024 - August 2024 ● Performed customer service interactions to create a fun environment and encourage passersby to play ● Explained the rules of various carnival games to guests ● Restocked and gave out various prizes for each game
Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH Scare Actor (Seasonal) September 2023 - October 2023 ● ● ● ●
Performed as a butcher in the Halloweekends Slaughterhouse attraction Interacted with guests to entertain effectively with various scares Assisted fellow associates to perform a complete experience for guests Offered refreshments and breaks to associates while remaining in character to preserve the spooky experience ● Improvised various phrases to create a unique experience for each group of guests
Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH Lifeguard (Seasonal) July 2023 - August 2023 ● Maintained certifications for lifeguarding to protect guest safety and ensure success during frequent audits. Certifications included: ○ Lifeguarding
Mateo Kraus 65 Executive Drive, Norwalk, OH, mateoikraus@gmail.com, (419) 681-8066 ○ CPR and First Aid ● Preserved the health and safety of the guests through care and vigilance to identify hazards, respond to emergencies, and uphold park rules.
Drug Mart, Norwalk, OH Cashier (Seasonal) June 2022 - October 2022 ● Managed the exchange of money and products at the front counter ● Organized the workspace by cleaning and keeping inventory of the store’s stock ● Performed customer service interactions to make an inviting environment
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Allyson Manuel
Avon, OH 44011 | 440-662-0038 | afaithmanuel@gmail.com
Summary:
Motivated and conscientious student with a passion for storytelling and visual arts, both traditional and digital. Strong communication and analytical abilities, with over a year of retail experience demonstrating reliability and teamwork. Eager to grow and apply creative skills in an environment that values art and design. View art portfolio here: https://sites.google.com/view/allyson-manuel-portfolio/home?authuser=0
Skills:
● Collaboration ● Critical thinking ● Organization
Technical Skills:
● Procreate & Procreate Dreams ● Adobe Creative Suite ● Google Workspace
Education: Lorain County Community College Elyria, OH | August 2025 to May 2026 Majors: Liberal and Creative Arts, Universal Arts, and Arts Foundation | 4.0 GPA Member: Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel Humanities to Career Program
Cleveland Institute of Art Cleveland, OH | August 2026 to May 2028 (Expected) Major: Graphic Design | 4.0 GPA Member: American Institute of Graphic Art
Experience: Journey Church: Kids Dream Team Member Avon, OH | January 2019 to present ● Created an engaging and organized environment that encouraged creativity and storytelling in youth programs. ● Applied communication and leadership skills to support children’s artistic and emotional development.
LCCC Mandel Program: Commodore Cupboard Community Engagement Intern Elyria, OH | January 2026 to June 2026 ● Adapted visual style to capture the organization’s voice. ● Utilized critical thinking and collaboration to accurately translate messages into design layouts for event announcements and promotions.
Party Place: Sales Associate Avon, OH | June 2024 to January 2026 ● Designed visually appealing product displays to enhance customer experience. ● Worked effectively with customers to help them plan celebrations and express their creative ideas.
Culver’s: Restaurant Associate Avon, OH | July 2026 to present ● Communicated with staff and customers to build a welcoming community and foster meaningful connections. ● Strengthened proactivity, attention to detail, and problem-solving to maintain restaurant workflow and organization
Honors and Memberships: ● ● ● ● ●
Gold Key and Three Silver Keys, Scholastic Art Awards – Lorain County Region (2025) Selected Artist, Avon Regional Scholastic Art Show (2021, 2023, 2024) National Art Honor Society (2024–2025) | National Honor Society (2024–2025) National Society of High School Scholars (2022–2025) Selected Artist, LCCC Student Art Show (2025, 2026)
Shelby Scott Robertson | Cleveland, OH | Pittsburgh, PA (724)-309-2989 | ssrobertson@student.cia.edu | https://shelbyscottr.wixsite.com/portfolio EDUCATION: Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, Minor in Craft + Design (Jewelry & Metalworking), GPA: 3.7
May ‘27
Santa Reparata International School of Art, Florence, Italy, Study Abroad semester, GPA: 3.76
Sept-Dec ‘25
Westmoreland County Community College, Youngwood, PA, Associate of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, GPA: 3.4
May ‘23
Relevant Coursework: Typography I & II , Design for Communication I&II, Web Design, Advanced Studio, Branding Design, Advanced Illustration, Drawing I, Design + Layout, Environmental Graphic Design, 2D Design, Intro to Jewelry, Casting EXPERIENCE: Cleveland Institute of Art Center for Career and Workforce Development, Cleveland, OH
October 2023-current
Graphic Designer • Independently managing social media accounts and designing visual content for Instagram including informational event posters, humorous videos, and opportunity stories to connect with student body to increase online engagement by 200% in first two months • Collaborate with supervisors to connect students to accessible professional development resources, such as organizing free professional closet with over 600 garments for school-wide event • Campaigning Credit-Bearing internship Awareness Interviews and posts • Campaigning student worker appreciation week and designing and producing sticker sheets as gifts for 100 students RELAVENT PROJECTS: • Designed and executed life sized hanging family tree illustration signs for 800+ people
July ‘24
• Design and execute specialty coffee shop chalkboard layout & illustrations
Jan-Dec ‘23
• Design and print of wedding guest seating chart for over 500 guests • Cover Art for A Daughter’s Poems, by Mckenzie Bonar,
June ‘23 published November ‘23
SKILLS: Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign) Google Suite, Figma, Basic French reading & speaking EXTRACURRICULAR: AIGA Board Member– Cleveland Institute of Art student chapter
Spring ‘25-current
• Ideate community events that encourage student designers to connect to professional opportunities and one another Jewelry + Metals Guild Guild Member
Fall ‘23- current
• Participates in production nights in preparation of club sales, tabling at Holiday sale WCCC Youngwood Arts and Media Club President
Fall ‘22- Spring ‘23
• Ideating, organizing, and putting on public events such as Bob Ross Painting Workshop • Communicating with Student Life Administration and club members AWARDS, SCHOLARSHIPS, & EXHIBITIONS: • Cleveland Institute of Art Student Independent Exhibition
2026
• Karen Skunta & Company Design Excellence Award
2026
• Outstanding Work Study Student Award for consecutive academic years •Westmoreland County Cultural Trust Achievements in the Arts: Award of Artistic Merit for Visual Arts • WPEE Local 5 Union: Scholarship for Academic Merit
2023-2024 & 2024-2025 2021 2021-2025
ILLUSTRATION
Carla Fritz Illustration Artist
Cleveland, OH 44118 (419) 515-0533 fritzcarla05@gmail.com Portfolios - ArtStation, Instagram
SKILLS Digital Illustration, Skilled in Adobe and Procreate, Visual Storytelling, Collaboration and Teamwork,
Work Planning and Prioritizaton, Multitasking, Storyboard Creation, Communications and Media, Adaptability and Flexibility
EXPERIENCE Fairfax Market, Cleveland, OH - Customer Service and Produce July 2025 - PRESENT
● Communicated and cooperated within multiple departments, unloading palettes, restocking fresh produce, and maintaining a clean and functional work area ● Assisted customers with purchases when needed
Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH - Ride Operations May 2024 - August 2024
● Communicated and cooperated with team to operate and safely maintain amusement park rides. ● Assisted guests aswell as insured their safety while attending park rides.
African Safari Wildlife Park, Port Clinton, OH - Operations March 2023 - August 2023
● Monitored animal behavior and guest interactions to maintain a secure and compliant environment at all times. ● Prepared and distributed nutrition plans and feeding schedules for a diverse range of wildlife species. ● Operated a retail sails point, assisting customers with product selection.
Discount Drugmart, Huron, OH - Stocker May 2022 - March 2023
● Communicated and cooperated within multiple departments to effectively organize and operate establishment. ● Managed incoming phone calls while assisting customers and delivering quick and effective service.
EHOVE Career Center, Milan, OH - Summer Camp Student Assissant June 2021
● Collision and Refinishing Technician. Demonstrated and taught different technical skills and techniques to children
EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH - Fine Arts Bachelor August 2023 - May 2027
Majoring in Illustration. Learned composition, graphic design, story telling and other. Skills in following programs, Adobe, Procreate, basics of Maya.
EHOVE Career Center, Milan, OH - Trade School August 2020 - May 2023
Vocational school with more hands-on training. Took Collison and Refinishing for two years, learning welding, sanding and painting. A part of drug free leaders.
Perkins High School, Sandusky, OH - Diploma August 2019 - May 2023
Participated in marching band for all four years.
Riley “Zag” Hicks Cleveland, OH | zaghicks@gmail.com | https://rehicks1108.wixsite.com/startearss Education The Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration Minor in Creative Writing 3.8 GPA
May 2028
Work Experience Avalon Exchange, Cleveland Heights, OH April 2026 - Present Store Associate ● Designed consistent social media posting and advertising ● Managed thousands of dollars in cash and credit transactions ● Worked with a like-minded team to create a successful sales environment Leadership Experience The Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH March 2025 - June 2026 Orientation Leader ● Collaborated with a team of 20+ individuals to run a large scale event ● Planned and executed various educational and promotional activities ● Ensured a successful and safe academic environment for incoming students Emerging Leaders Retreat, Vermillion, OH Mentor ● Lead classes and workshops to support peer growth
November 2025
Skills ● Adobe Creative Cloud (incl. Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Premiere Pro) ● Written and verbal communication across email, Slack, and Homebase ● Microsoft Office 365 (incl. Word, PowerPoint, and Excel) ● Illustration (incl. narrative illustration, concept work, character design, prop design, graphic design, and sequential art)
Zelma Hutton Columbus, OH | zkhutton@cia.edu | 614-746-7996 EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration
May 2028
WORK EXPERIENCE Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, Columbus, OH Camp Counselor (Seasonal)
June 2025 - Present
● Helped organize, lead, and explain craft activities, introducing children to new creative forms and outlets ● Managed multiple large groups of 20-40 children by maintaining meaningful relationships with children ages 9-14 ● Maintained communication and flexibility during last-minute location and planning changes Swimsafe Pool Management, Columbus, OH Lifeguard (Seasonal)
May 2021 - August 2024
● Enforced rules and monitored zones to prevent adverse situations and to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for patrons ● Communicated with colleagues in high-stress situations to guarantee smooth workflow
RELATED EXPERIENCE Horizon Insurance Services, Columbus, OH Intern
April 2024 - May 2024
● Designed various informative graphics combining data and visuals to be shared through social media ● Returned temporarily in December of 2024 to aid in data entry Miscellaneous Fundraising Experience
August 2022 - May 2024
● Instrumental in organizing and raising funds for multiple events and trips for the Arts and College Preparatory Academy ● Aided in raising around 500 dollars through a student-run silent auction
Zoie Ogbodo (She/Her) Cleveland, Ohio | zaogbodo@cia.edu | 651-354-3285 www.linkedin.com/in/zoie-ogbodo Portfolio| https://zumaandzoie.myportfolio.com/
Education Cleveland Institute of Art (CIA), Cleveland, Ohio Bachelor of Fine Arts, Illustration
May 2027
Experience Mosaic Program, Cleveland Institute of Art
August 2026 –
Peer Mentor ● Guide and support mentees with academic, personal, and professional needs all through the academic year ● Assisted with the Mosaic Pre-Orientation Program for historically underrepresented students in transitioning to CIA ● Create a welcoming environment to nurture students' creativity through a foundation of community and resources. ● Providing referrals to mentees when needing to be directed to specific CIA department
Kidcreate Studio, Woodbury, Minnesota
June 2026 - August 2026
Lead Teacher ● Teaching art and science courses to children ages 18months to 12 years ● Enthusiastically Interacted with students during art and science classes and camps to create a fun and environment to foster creativity ● Prepared curriculum for up to five 1 hour classes in a week
Walgreens, Oakdale Minnesota
June 2026 - August 2026
Customer Service Associate ● Trained at the Walgreens photo counter to complete same day photo orders by releasing photos to the appropriate printer containing the correct paper type ● Modeled and delivered a distinctive and delightful customer experience. ● Registered sales on the assigned cash register, and provided customers with courteous, fair, friendly, and efficient checkout service. ● -Processed voids, returns, rain checks, refunds, and exchanges as needed on the cash register ● Kept counters and shelves clean and well merchandised, checked in and priced merchandise as directed by store manager
Sears Think[box] Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio Student Technician
June 2024 – December 2025
● Interacting and listening to users daily to assist with user projects and create a positive experience at think[box] ● Assisted users in the purchasing of material for their projects, and handled money and transactions for said purchases ● Answered phone calls daily, and responded to users inquiries about the makerspace ● Scheduled consultations for fellow technicians to assists user with completing projects ● Implement projects and signage into the makerspace by designing/constructing prototypes to help users navigate the space and improve organization throughout the floor ● Perform routine maintenance on machines to ensure proper functionality ● Ensuring there is an appropriate level of safety in the space by providing supervision to users handling potentially dangerous machinery. CIA Registrar Office, Cleveland, Ohio
Oct 2023 – May 2025
Registrar Office Student Assistant ● Utilized Microsoft softwares to aid with inputting data like student information, transcripts, and credit hours into the school’s database ● Managing student files maintaining efficient organized filing system
Skills: Customer Service • Adobe Suite, Photoshop, Illustrator • Microsoft Suite • Data Input • Canva • Facilitation
NAOMI SAMARASEKERA Cleveland, Ohio, United States naomisamarasekera@gmail.com |2167446617 https://nsamarasekera.myportfolio.com/|www.linkedin.com/in/naomi-samarasekera
EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art- Cleveland, OH August 2021- May 2025 Bachelor of the Fine Arts in Illustration, minor in Creative Writing GPA: 3.9 EXPERIENCE City Year Cleveland, Cleveland, Ohio. Student Success Coach July 2026-Present ● Supporting middle school academic growth. Assisting in 7th grade science and art ● Whole School whole child model, SEL learning, Clover growth model. CPR certified. Lake Erie Ink, Cleveland Heights, Ohio. Summer Intern June 2026 ● Assisted teaching artist in zine and comic workshops directed towards middle school students Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, Ohio. Illustration Teaching Assistant March 2025- May 2025 ● Maintained the Illustration Studios to create a professional and creative work environment ● Operated the register during the spring sale event, managed wacom tablets and scanners Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, Ohio. Illustration Department Tutor April 2024- May 2024 ● Advised peers by teaching them illustration skills and assisted with adobe software ● Created lessons plans to be taught in open studios, tutored during open studios Morgan Conservatory, Cleveland, Ohio. Community Arts Intern June 2022- July 2022 ● Learned techniques in paper making, printmaking, and book binding from professionals. ● Created physical and digital learning assets that explained the processes of paper making ● Assisted in setting up the studio for workshops and assisted during the programs John Carroll University, University Heights, Ohio. Digital Movie Making Lobo LAB Mentor January 2021- April 2021 ● Taught middle school adolescents how to create and edit videos using the WeVideo software ● Specialized in stop-motion animation SKILLS AND ABILITIES ● Languages: Bilingual in English and Sinhala. French: B1 Intermédiaire ● Information : Pack Office, Google Workplace, Adobe Creative Suite, Clip Studio Paint ● Technical Art Skills: Digital. Inkwork. Acrylic, gouache, and watercolor paint. Papermaking, printmaking, bookbinding. Colored pencil, mod podge collage, needlepoint. HONORS Boyds Mills South Asian Voices Scholarship Recipient (2026), Assembly of the Art Boost Fund Grant (2026). Featured work in the Juicy Illustration Show, Greatest Hits Illustration Show (2024), Silly Show (2023), Pure Imagination Illustration Show (2022)
Sara Srun New Castle, PA | smsrun@cia.edu | (724) 301 2927
EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art (CIA), Cleveland, OH August 2024 - Present (May 2028) Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration with a minor in Printmaking GPA: 3.9 WORK EXPERIENCE Cleveland Institute of Art Cleveland, OH Resident Assistant August 2026 - Present ● Serve as a positive role model for residents at all times ● Enforce policies and procedures in the residence hall and serve on duty rotations assigned throughout the academic year ● Plan events, meetings, programs, and bulletin boards for residents of the hall ● Maintain open communication with hall staff by attending bi-weekly staff meetings and one on one meetings as scheduled with the Hall Director Peer Consultant, Writing + Learning Center March 2025 - Present ● Manage visit logs and conduct sessions with student visitors either in-person or virtually ● Offer feedback and collaborate one-on-one with students to provide help and support with their coursework, creative or professional projects, time management, project brainstorming, studying, and more ● Design posters for advertising the center and promoting workshops Orientation Leader February 2025 - December 2025 ● Served as a role model and resource for new students throughout Orientation and beyond ● Facilitated small group discussions and served as peer mentor and resource for first year students throughout the fall semester. ● Planned meaningful programs for first year students to continue to encourage connectivity in the CIA community. ● Created a t-shirt design for new student orientation to promote the event Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH February 2026 - March 2026 Parade the Circle 2026 Designer ● Designed artwork for the Parade the Circle 2026 theme to be featured on merchandise and promotional material for the event ● Attended mutually agreed upon check in times and adhered to established deadlines to successfully complete the design in a timely manner ● Interacted with the Cleveland community by assisting with the merchandise sales of design on the event day to further promote artwork and program
EXTRACURRICULAR & VOLUNTEER WORK Community Outreach Team September 2024 - Present Member ● Painted windows for patients at the Hope Lodge to create an environment of hope and joy ● Volunteered as a guide at the Heart Walk in Downtown Cleveland to support participants and foster positivity ● Painted rocks with motivational messages and hid them around CIA to brighten a person’s day ● Created light-hearted, motivational sticky note messages and posted them around CIA during midterms to promote support ● Prepped munchie bags with snacks for students during finals season to support Helping Hands September 2024 - May 2025 Member ● Created illustrations for posters to promote a food drive ● Helped collect donations and facilitate crafts and activities to promote participation during the food drive event ● Assisted with the clothing sale by sorting clothing in preparation for the event to create an organized station for students to browse ACHIEVEMENTS Horatio Alger State Scholar
May 2023
Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and Adobe Cloud: Photoshop and Illustrator
Sydney Tyler Willowick, OH | smtyler@cia.edu | (614) 832-2564 EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration GPA: 3.9
May 2028
RELATED EXPERIENCES Target, Willoughby, OH Fulfillment Expert
July 2024 - Present
● Coordinated with department members to delegate assigned tasks and complete customer orders in a timely manner. ● Engaged with customers to assist in various shopping experiences. ● Guided new team members in the store training program to assist in the learning process and improve department efficiency. ● Arranged products to maintain organization and aesthetic appeal to uphold store cleanliness and customer satisfaction. Freelance Illustration, Willowick, OH Self Employed
January 2021 - Present
● Successfully completed a number of freelance art projects for various clients, ensuring their vision was accurately translated into visually appealing designs. ● Independently managed project timelines, communicated effectively with clients to gather requirements, provided progress updates and delivered final artwork within deadlines. ● Utilized a variety of artistic techniques to bring diverse creative concepts to life. ● Operated various industry standard art programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Procreate to uphold satisfactory file organization and create professional level products. ● Developed an online presence by showcasing artwork on social media platforms.
INDUSTRIAL DESIGN
Cooper Hancock Attleboro, Massachusetts | cshancock@cia.edu | 508-216-4829 | cooperhancock.net
EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Bachelor of Fine Arts in Industrial Design
Graduating May 2027
RELATED EXPERIENCES The TJX Companies INC., Framingham, MA May 2026 – August 2026 Product Design Intern - Designed and created specs for wax and ceramic Halloween candles - Researched and created trend boards for Halloween for the hard home design team - Participated in meetings with buyers to present product development samples -Lead a group intern project centered around attracting young male customers through social media, new product, and new store displays The TJX Companies INC., Framingham, MA May 2025 – August 2025 Technical Design Intern - Assisted senior technical designers with fitting, measuring, construction and evaluating sample products - Communicated with venders concerning product samples to ensure they met design intent - Helped team members organize workflow of tracking samples - Worked with other interns to create a project focusing on sustainability to present to upper management Equipment Checkout Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH September 2023 - Present Equipment Checkout Assistant - Helped students and faculty reserve, pickup, and return equipment in a timely manner - Interacted with students and faculty to determine which equipment best fits their needs to ensure satisfaction EXTRACURICULAR CIA IDSA Chapter May 2025- Present President - Created, planned, and executed events to bring awareness to IDSA and the industrial design department - Help lead weekly meetings with other IDSA club members - Created events to create a positive and inclusive studio culture Skills Adobe Suite, Fusion 360, Blender, Prototyping (3D printing, laser/water jet cutting, foamcore) Microsoft Suite, concepting, refinement, trend research
LIFE SCIENCE ILLUSTRATION
Sydney Stadler (She/her) Springboro OH | (937) 704 3538 | sdnstadler@gmail.com EDUCATION Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH Major: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Life Sciences Illustration Minor: Creative Writing and Visual Culture GPA: 3.9 Gund Family Scholarship Cleveland Institute of Art Award for Excellence in Life Science Illustration Gertrude Hornung Award for Excellence in Medical Illustration Fred Walker Writing Prize
May 2027
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE Cleveland FES Center, Cleveland, OH January 2026 - August 2026 ● Interned at the FES Center support team to develop webpage designs and research graphics in line with current style guidelines. ● Digitally rendered several illustrations for major research areas and patient education for broad neurological conditions. 3D Ricoh for Healthcare, Parma, OH November 2024 - December 2025 ● Production intern at Ricoh, a 3d printing facility focusing on diagnostic surgical, educational, palliative care and charitable models within the biomedical industry. ● Focused on handling several print types within tight deadlines to print and prepare models to be delivered nationwide and internationally. Visual Communication Design: Spring 2026 ● Refined skills in layout design and style development to create installation work to guide students through academic spaces and aid in research. Digital Medical Illustration: Fall 2027 ● Using Adobe Suite to create and develop educational media in biomedical subjects. Spanning from general medical knowledge to paralegal applications. Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH May 2027 Cross Registered Relevant Coursework: Biology, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Comparative Vertebrate Lab Burren College of Art July 2024 - August 2024 ● Through the Cleveland Institute of Art, participated in a study abroad in Ireland, further skills in installation and research abilities in Western Ireland. Sinclair Community College, Springboro OH Minor in Studio Art
August 2021 - May 2023
SKILLS ● Digital; 3d Slicer, 3d Substance Painter, Acrobat Pro, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Animate, Authentise, AutoCad, Autodesk Maya, Autodesk Mudbox, Blender, Figma, Fusion 360, InDesign, Materialise Mimics, Premiere Pro, Procreate, SculptGL, Osirix
SCULPTURE + EXPANDED MEDIA
Bird Gohde birdgohde@gmail.com (859)940-7468 EDUCATION: Bachelor of Fine Arts, Sculpture + Expanded Media Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH GPA: 3.6
Graduation expected May 2028
EXPERIENCE: Pool Attendant, Idle Hour Country Club, Lexington, KY June 2026-August 2026 Managed databases, confirmed memberships, and formed connections with members to elevate their experience at the club Front of House, Goodfellas Pizzeria, Lexington, KY August 2023 – August 2025 (seasonally) Prepped ingredients and set up the dining room before opening, memorized the menu and possible allergies, and helped customers through the point-of-sale process to make everything run smoothly Backstage Hand/Spotlight Operator, Lexington Children’s Theatre, March 2023, July 2024 Lexington, KY Collaborated with an ever-changing team, delegated the workload and communicated with the director to bring their vision to life AWARDS / EXHIBITIONS: Trznadel Family Award To What End VA 2026 Spring Show, Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland OH Student Independent Exhibition, Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland OH Proficient Costume Design Portfolio, Owensboro KY SKILLS: Fluent in Spanish Adobe Certified in Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign Machine and hand sewing Pattern drafting and construction Needle and wet felting Mig welding Video editing Customer service
April 2026 April 2026 February 2026 November 2023
Lovena Grillot (She/her) Cleveland, OH 45887 | (567)259-8175 | legrillot@cia.edu | https://lovena-grillot.pixpa.com/ EDUCATION: Cleveland Institute of Art 27’ - Bachelor of Fine Arts, GPA: 3.9 RELEVANT COURSEWORK Modeling and Expanded Making – Modeled and sculpted 3D files using Blender and Autodesk suite. Time-Based Strategies – Learned the Adobe suite (Premiere, AE, Substance) and Mad mapper to create experiences. Artificial Landscapes – Imagined and modeled virtual environments with the Autodesk suite. Intro to Sculpture Fabrication – Fabricated various wooden and steel pieces in the metal, wood and plastic shops. Reproducibility – Created custom plaster and silicone molds of sculpture and found objects. Artist as Producer – Collaborate with a team of artists to create an exhibition and work on the Prepatorial committee to refresh install room walls, install work and put up didactics. WORK EXPERIENCE Cuyahoga County Public Library South Euclid-Lyndhurst Branch, Cleveland Ohio
December 2025 – Current
Creativity Works Internship • • •
Curate, manage and organize a large, scale project including 3 teaching workshops and an open-call exhibition. Communicate and teach workshops to students ages 7-60+. Market, gather art, install and deinstall a professional pop-up exhibition while managing a team of prepators.
Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, Ohio Continuing Education – Pre-College Office Assistant • • •
Managed phone calls and emails directed to the CE Office to troubleshoot student/parent issues or communicate with staff and families about Pre-College and Continuing Education program information. Coordinated class and residence hall supplies for students and faculty Substituted for Teaching Assistants when needed.
Student Life and Housing – Resident Assistant • • •
July 2025, July 2026 - Current
March 2025 – Current
Maintain residence halls for 20 students ages 14 to 19 for the Pre-college program and academic school year. Collaborate with peer Resident Assistants to coordinate social and networking events. Connect students to internal and external resources for art, finances, and other support.
Student Life and Housing – Orientation Leader
August 2024 - May 2026
•
Helped incoming students be acclimated to college, learn the resources available in the Cleveland Institute of Art, University Circle and network them with faculty and peers. • Created posts for the CIA College 101 Instagram, as well as promoted events and information. The Exchange, Cleveland, Ohio October 2025 – July 2026 Level 3 Sales Associate and Trader • •
Precisely sort, organize, file and create displays for video games, figures and pop culture media. Effectively execute customer service and communication skills with store patrons.
CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT Cleveland Institute of Art - BFA Senior Installation Team •
Collaborated to set up and install graduating sculpture student’s thesis project.
2025, 2026
Courtney Lipscomb
Cleveland, OH | +1 571 492 8535 | courtneylipscombsfx@gmail.com
Work experience Scare Actor/Makeup Artist
Nightmare Cleveland | Cleveland, OH April 2025 to Present • Worked with directors to figure out best way to represent the character • Took care of costume that was worn • Used both makeup and costume to portray a character
Lead Makeup Artist/Scare Actor
RED VEIN haunted house | Ashland, VA September 2024 to December 2024 • Created custom looks that complemented the characters features and outfit • Demonstrated makeup techniques for long-lasting coverage that resists fading from sweat or tears • Collaborated with a director and other performers to find the best interpretation for the character portrayed
Entertainment
Kings Dominion | Doswell, VA March 2024 to July 2024 • Greet guests and provide them with information about the park and answer any questions that they may have • Ensure safety regulations are followed while performing assigned duties
Makeup Artist and Scare Actor
Kings Dominion | Doswell, VA September 2021 to January 2024 • Created custom looks that complemented the characters features and outfit • Applied expertise in body movements, gestures, and different forms of speech to engage audience members and drive engagement. • Researched roles to learn traits, mannerisms, accents, and other key features of characters.
Education Sculpture + Expanded Media (Some college) Cleveland Institute of Art | Cleveland, OH January 2025 to Present
Upper secondary education
Skills Organizational skills Customer service
Marketing
Makeup Application
Time management
Links https://spookycourt.carrd.co/
Customer inquiry handling
Leadership
CAREER + GRADUATE SCHOOL FAIR Thank you for attending! Visit our online Talent Directory to view portfolios and LinkedIn profiles submitted by registered Career + Graduate School participants. The directory is updated each semester so check back regularly to connect with emerging talent.