GDUSA-Graphic Design USA Volume 63/No.2 March/April 2026 Kaye Publishing Corporation (ISSN0274-7499/USPS227020). Published 6 times a year with combined issues in January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, November/December. Executive, editorial and advertising offices at 594 Dean Street, Office 22, Brooklyn NY 11238. Phone: 212.696.4380. Website: www.gdusa.com.
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08 FRESH
A few of our favorite recent projects and campaigns: Sprite sharpens its edge with a new global “It’s That Fresh” platform; Mekanism ad agency gets cheeky with a colonoscopy reminder campaign that hits close to home; Mother Design builds trust for a digital dollar; and Tostitos package design emphasizes transparency. Elsewhere, TBWA\Chiat\Day Boston restores an iconic furniture retailer’s identity; Chermayeff & Geismar & Haviv rebrands a humanitarian aid organization; and Hippeas snacks brand debuts playful packaging designed with LOVE. Rounding things out, Decimal Studios crafts a human-centered identity for a nAI watchdog, while Saint-Urbain unleashes a dog care platform inspired by traditional hospitality models.
24 TOP DESIGN SCHOOLS
This winter we featured our annual Students-to-Watch selections in print and online; its already been viewed tens of thousands of times on our gdusa.com website. This time around we offer GDUSA’s favorite graphic design schools and programs that excel in teaching the hard and soft skills necessary for success, in nurturing talent and expanding minds, and in preparing the next generation of creatives for a dream career in the real world. Included are traditional centers of excellence dedicated to art and design, as well as a carefully curated selection of first-rate public and private university departments, and select online-first programs that serve undergrad, graduate and continuing education students. You can, of course, also access the list on our website as well.
46 DIGITAL DESIGN AWARDS
What do you call an awards competition held amid a truly severe winter, a prolonged and unexpected war, and a moment of technological anxiety and economic uncertainty? We call it an unqualified success. The 26th American Digital Design Awards™ drew a near record number of entries, resulting in an exceptionally selective showcase of winners. Formerly known as “web design,” the competition continues to evolve — reflecting the expanding power of design to shape online and interactive experiences, as well as omnichannel campaigns. Today, that scope includes not only websites, but also social media, email marketing, digital advertising and publications, interface and interactive design, and video and animation. Please join us for the 2026 showcase.
GORDON KAYE AND SASHA KAYE-WALSH
ARE EDITORS AT GDUSA
Comments, suggestions and letters can be sent to editorial@gdusa.com.
A popular AI riposte goes: “Why are AI jokes so bad? Because they’re so predictable.” Which only proves that not only are AI jokes bad — but jokes about AI jokes may be worse.
Our newly redesigned gdusa.com website has become home to an increasingly rich stream of creative commentary, alongside its core mission as a news and information source. Unsurprisingly, AI is the topic of the moment.
Current perspectives include: Spencer Strickland of Langrand on choosing conviction over consensus in the AI era; Kate Watts of Fifty Thousand Feet on the growing imperative for brands to stand apart; Keith Humphrey of Manheim Advertising on the troubling rise of “slop design”; creative strategist Lauren Phillips on the danger of mistaking volume for value; Yana Grishchuk of Delicate Matter on the importance of judgment; Bud Rodecker of Span on AI’s impact on school identities; Erin Shea of VistaPrint on pushing back through tactile design; and veteran art director Emmanuel Cruz Lampon on why design is not, and never will be, about speed.
The point is simple: the AI debate is rich, textured, timely, and relevant. It (and much more) is unfolding right now on our site. Don’t be a stranger.
Meanwhile, I’ll leave you with this: “An AI walks into a bar. The bartender asks what it wants. ‘I’ll have what everybody else is having.’”
Again, not funny. Predictable. But oddly profound and on point. — GK
HITTING THE TRIFECTA
In this April edition of GDUSA, we proudly continue our tradition of spotlighting the art and design schools shaping the future of creativity. At a time when the industry is evolving at breakneck pace, these institutions stand as vital launchpads — challenging students to master a powerful trifecta: timeless design fundamentals, disruptive technologies, and the human-centered soft skills that bring ideas to life.
Interestingly, in the February edition, we gave the floor to our “Students To Watch” — a feature rich with perspective. One observation stands out: compared to recent years, there was noticeably less emphasis on social justice. Whether this signals a true cultural shift or a more cautious public posture is hard to say. You be the judge.
More to the point, this year’s list of “Top Design Schools & Programs”’ spans the spectrum: from storied design powerhouses to standout public and private universities, alongside forward-thinking online and hybrid programs serving students at every stage — from undergraduate to graduate and continuing education.
Our selections are informed, but not formulaic. They reflect years of conversation and collaboration with creative leaders, educators, administrators, hiring managers, and recruiters. The result is a curated, alphabetical roster with a national reach — and a unifying focus on personal growth and the ongoing renewal of the profession. — SFK
GDUSA AND GDUSA.COM
For 63 years, since 1963, Graphic Design USA | GDUSA has been a trusted news and information source for the creative community. After six decades on Madison and Fifth Avenues in Manhattan, we are now based in Brooklyn’s Prospect Heights neighborhood.
Today, GDUSA covers projects, people, technologies, commentary and analysis through our six-times-a-year print magazine, a widely read website, a monthly newsletter, a digital edition, periodic podcasts, and several national design competitions celebrating excellence in Graphic, Package, Web, Inhouse, Healthcare, and Sports Design. Our initiatives also include annual recognitions such as People to Watch, Designers for Good, Students to Watch, Top Design Schools, along with benchmark reader surveys on print, technology, and more.
In recent years, the purely news function has increasingly migrated to our website, where speed and flexibility allow us to report in real time. And it has opened up the opportunity for lots more creative conversation and commentary on newsworthy topics and trends, which you will find in abundance.
We hope you continue to enjoy the print and digital magazines — and that you will make visiting gdusa.com a regular habit.
ABOUT THE COVER
Freaner Creative, based in San Diego, has won many awards for its multilingual cross border campaigns in English and Spanish. This image is from a Chicali TV Show social media post. GDUSA’s Digital Design Awards showcase starts at page 46.
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SCHOOL OF DESIGN
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Strategic designers creating across brand systems, packaging, editorial, UX/UI, web, and advertising—developed through rigorous critique and real-world constraints.
See the Class of 2025.
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Creative agency LOVE has partnered with plant-based snack brand HIPPEAS® to create an upbeat creative and packaging refresh in the competitive better-for-you snacking sector. Optimized for physical retail, the new package is designed to bolster on-shelf stand out and engage a younger audience. A flexible system intended to bring the whole HIPPEAS range together, it includes a reinvigorated wordmark, color-drenched bags, fresh product imagery, and a mascot. The wordmark builds on the equity of the bold HIPPEAS typeface and lip-licking smile, combining them to create an asset that can stand on its own and show the brand personality in various contexts. The typeface itself has been thickened and curved to convey a sense of joyful energy. Sunshine yellow is retained in the makeover but used more strategically. While yellow remains the anchor, secondary colors are used more prominently across the SKUs than before, to better differentiate flavors and help consumers navigate the portfolio more easily. Product imagery is featured on the package itself; art directed and shot by the agency, photography was selected to present the product as real, crisp, light and textured and has been moved front and center. LOVE also helped introduce the new mascot, illustrated in-house and used across all packaging to deliver messages of product benefits, flavors, or boost overall story telling. The introduction of picket signs and stick-style signs provides a flexible holding device for key messaging. The back of the package lays out the brand’s three core pillars — tastes good, feels good, does good — in punchy rectangles.
Mother Design has created a new identity for USDC, a fully backed digital dollar positioned around stability and transparency in a market increasingly defined by inconsistency and declining trust. Commissioned by issuer Circle, the global branding agency set out to establish a visual language that conveys reliability and authority, while also expressing the efficiency and programmability inherent to digital assets. The system draws on the heritage of currency and financial institutions, reinterpreted through a contemporary, technical lens. This balance is embodied in the typographic choices: Baskerville serves as a conceptual anchor — a historic typeface reimagined through modern tools — mirroring USDC’s fusion of tradition and innovation. It is paired with Monument Grotesk Mono, a monospaced companion that introduces a sense of precision, progress, and engineered clarity. The USDC logo has been subtly refined rather than reinvented. Its recognizable parentheses-encircled form remains, but with sharpened edges that align more cohesively with the new wordmark, a customized version of Monument Grotesk intended to feel quietly authoritative. Color plays a strategic role as well: building on USDC’s established blue, the palette incorporates green tones referencing the U.S. dollar, alongside neon accents inspired by the security strips embedded in modern banknotes. A key visual device is Mother Design’s reinterpretation of guilloché — those intricate, security-driven patterns found on currencies worldwide. Here, they are transformed into a flexible brand asset, adding texture and depth. Developed in collaboration with Cotton Design, a bespoke generator tool produces both static and animated guilloché patterns. Crucially, the identity has been designed with global expansion in mind. The system is built to maintain consistency and recognition as USDC extends into other currencies, including EURC, its euro-pegged counterpart.
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MATCHING TALENT W ITH SUCCESS NATION W IDE
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Decimal has released a comprehensive brand identity for The Creators Coalition on Artificial Intelligence (CCAI), an organization established to define the ethical and artistic boundaries of AI in the entertainment industry. Founded by a collective of high-profile professionals — including Everything Everywhere All At Once director Daniel Kwan and actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt — the CCAI is a nonprofit organization dedicated to establishing guardrails and protections as generative AI reshapes the film and tv industry. To help bring the grassroots movement to life, Decimal was tasked with creating a visual world that balances the urgency of activism with an approachable human aesthetic. Led by Decimal’s creative team — Guillermo Brotons, Raphael Guenassia, Sergi Vilà, and Wenqing Ma — the core of the identity is a logomark featuring four converging circles to represent the coalition of over 500 actors, artists, and executives who have signed on. At their intersection sits a central sparkle, a symbol now synonymous with AI, repositioned to reinforce the idea that technology must people, not the other way around. To ensure the brand functions effectlively across platforms, Decimal developed a flexible typographic system using ABC Gravity for headlines and Hagel, a calligraphic serif, to provide a refined counterpoint that echoes the human hand. “It was vital that CCAI didn’t look like a tech company. We embraced human expression, imperfection, and authenticity,” says Guillermo Brotons, Co-founder and Creative Director at Decimal. “There is a nod to big tech AI branding with our usage of bright gradients, but we were inspired by graffiti and watercolors to create something that felt handmade. An innovative component of the identity is a custom, web-based Brush-Drawing Tool that allows users to create gestural art using the brand’s textures and gradients, a visceral reminder that creativity begins with a human being. The brush will be open-sourced in the future in the near future.
Chermayeff & Geismar & Haviv has rebranded Mercy Corps as Prosper Global, and designed the identity for the renamed organization. The changeover takes effect in September. The international humanitarian aid organization was founded in 1979, and works on the front lines of conflict and climate change, pairing local knowledge with global resources to help communities cope in the midst of crisis, adapt to a changing world, and thrive into the future. As part of the comprehensive effort, CGH partnered with Brand Federation to develop a new name, strategy, and narrative. There was a wide recognition that “Mercy Corps” had militaristic overtones that were not helpful, and the idea of “mercy” did not do justice to the partnerships built with communities around the world; the organization has programs in 30+ countries and partners with governments, NGO’s, foundations, civil society, communities, and private businessess. The new name suggests the outcomes the organization strives for: communities growing strong and healthy and thriving. And the new symbol designed by CGH is a fundamental icon, at once a directional arrow and a heart, suggesting coming together, moving forward, and caring. Bold in silhouette, the symbol is carefully balanced between curves and angles to give it approachability and distinction. The bright turquoise color was chosen for consistent use on both light and dark backgrounds, and also because turquoise is a color found in nature all over the world, and is often associated with protection, healing, and hopefulness. A complementary secondary palette of bright hues balance the turquoise. Mary Stata, Chief Development Officer, says that design and naming process was informed by extensive research and engagement, and that an advisory group representing all regions of operation ensured linguistic and cultural resonance.
Saint-Urbain has partnered with Digs to rebrand and reposition a growing dog care platform formerly known as Better Than Home. More than a single operator, Digs is a national network spanning 15+ states, designed to acquire and partner with independent dog care businesses. As the platform expanded, it needed a unifying identity that could bring diverse local operators under a trusted umbrella while preserving the warmth and individuality pet owners value. Saint-Urbain’s solution is a flexible system built to scale across locations, teams, retail environments, products, and digital experiences — drawing inspiration from hotel and hospitality models, where distinct destinations operate under a shared standard. The name Digs anchors the brand. Intended to feel familiar and colloquial, it reframes dog care as a place of belonging rather than a transactional service, appealing both to pet owners seeking emotional connection and to operators joining a credible, scalable network. isually, the identity balances clinical trust with playful energy. A custom dog-face icon acts as a unifying symbol, while a modular shape system adapts across touchpoints. Vibrant colors convey personality and joy, offset by clean layouts and a clear typographic hierarchy that emphasize safety, cleanliness, and professionalism. The website plays a meaningful role in supporting Digs’ dual audience: offering clarity and services for pet owners, alongside shared resources and operational guidance for business partners.
CHEEKY COLONOSCOPY REMINDER CAMPAIGN
“Colonoscopy Reminder” is a deeply personal campaign that ditches the clinical for the visceral, in support of the new documentary “Andre is an Idiot.” The campaign was created and executed by Mekanism for distribution company Joint Venture to support the recent release of a raw final testament from Andre Riccardi, a former Mekanism employee, who documented his terminal battle with colon cancer to ensure others wouldn’t follow in his footsteps. A hero :30 film pairs a whimsical melody with a curated gallery of objects, from bundt cakes to balloon ends, that serve as everyday “asshole” lookalikes. From oranges to tree knots, the film is a cheeky reminder to take care of our health as the lyrics from the melody sing, “Everything Reminds Me of You.” In addition to the film, the creative team shared boxes filled with items from the film, like fruit and balloons, replete with QR code stickers that link straight to the film and microsite. The boxes also included postcards with images from the campaign to serve as colonoscopy reminders to friends and family. Social media influencers like internet viral internal medicine doctor Dr. Tim Tiutan also received the boxes. Explains Jesse Patrone-Werdiger, VP of Marketing & Distribution at Joint Venture: “At its heart, ‘Andre is an Idiot’ is a tribute to Andre Riccardi’s humor, honesty, and refusal to look away from the uncomfortable. Our PSA campaign carries that spirit forward, using cheeky wit to remind people that laughter can lead to conversations that might just save your life. We are excited to bring not only the documentary to audiences, but to also share André’s irreverent humor and desire to help others...” Adds Jason Harris, Founder and CEO of Mekanism: “This work is about turning a personal tragedy into a lifeline. Andre was family, and his final wish was to be a loud, unmistakable wake-up call.” The documentary was a winner at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, taking home two awards: Audience Award: U.S. Documentary and Jonathan Oppenheim Editing Award: U.S. Documentary.
Sprite has unveiled a new global brand platform, “It’s That Fresh,” marking a comprehensive evolution of its identity and creative direction. The initiative unifies visual design, sonic branding, and cultural partnerships into a cohesive system intended to guide the brand worldwide. Developed in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company’s global design team, creative studio forpeople focused on refining and reenergizing Sprite’s identity. Grounded in consumer insights, the approach aims to restore the brand’s cultural edge while retaining its most recognizable elements. t the core is a refreshed visual system. Sprite’s Lymon symbol returns in a simplified, contemporary form, paired with a bold white wordmark to create a single, consistent asset. A green-and-white palette, liquid-inspired graphics, and kinetic motion cues emphasize clarity while evoking the drink’s carbonation and citrus character. Packaging follows suit, with vertically oriented wordmarks and a unified structure across Sprite and Sprite Zero Sugar, the latter distinguished by black accents. Beyond design, the platform strengthens Sprite’s long-standing connection to culture. A 2026 collaboration with Crenshaw Skate Club will introduce limited-edition products and experiences rooted in skateboarding, fashion, and community. The brand also continues to spotlight emerging voices through its Limelight music platform and global partnerships spanning K-pop, C-pop, and Brazilian funk. In the food space, Sprite extends its “Hurts Real Good” positioning around spicy flavors, with partnerships including Takis, TABASCO, and McDonald’s to reinforce its role as a go-to pairing for heat.
After more than a century as a New England retail mainstay, Jordan’s Furniture is officially dropping “Furniture” and relaunching as simply Jordan’s. Developed by the newly joined Boston office of TBWA\Chiat\Day — formerly MullenLowe Boston — the rebrand signals an evolution for the regional icon, long known for immersive showrooms and high-energy approach to home retail. As the furniture category grows increasingly competitive, the company saw an opportunity to modernize its presence. After more than a century as a New England retail mainstay, Jordan’s Furniture is officially dropping “Furniture” and relaunching as simply Jordan’s. Developed by the newly joined Boston office of TBWA\Chiat\Day, the rebrand signals an evolution for the regional icon, long known for immersive showrooms and high-energy approach to home retail. As the furniture category grows increasingly competitive, the company saw an opportunity to modernize its presence. At the core of the assignment: translate Jordan’s in-store energy into a cohesive omnichannel brand experience capable of engaging today’s consumer. By retiring “Furniture” from the name, the brand embraces that it is an experience rather than a product category. The updated identity introduces a streamlined visual system designed for flexibility across platforms. The redesign features an expanded color palette, rounded typography, and a dot-and-line illustration element derived from a simplified “J.” The system is intended to work consistently across retail environments, digital channels, advertising, and partnerships. The relaunch is anchored by the new brand platform, “WE GET YOU. WE GOT YOU.” The messaging targets New England homeowners — particularly those in the 35–44 demographic — and positions Jordan’s as a retailer that understands how customers view their homes as personal investments and milestones. The campaign is rolling out across OOH, video, paid and organic social, digital, and in-stadium placements tied to sports partnerships.
In an era where consumers increasingly demand transparency, Tostitos is pulling back the curtain on its process — and reframing its narrative around origin and authenticity. The brand is emphasizing that its tortilla chips begin with whole corn kernels, which are ground into masa using traditional methods before being fried into the finished product. This renewed focus on process is central to a broader initiative by PepsiCo to connect consumers more directly with how their food is made. The philosophy materializes in a comprehensive packaging redesign aimed at making product attributes more visible and accessible. The updated bags communicate key product claims, including the absence of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, the use of whole corn kernels, gluten-free labeling, and the inclusion of whole grains in every serving. Visually, the redesign marks a departure from product-centric photography in favor of illustration. Brought to life by PepsicCo’s global design team, the approach allows the brand to express warmth and a sense of “fiesta spirit,” while referencing the traditional masa-making process through embedded corn imagery. The familiar Tostitos logo, with its hidden depiction of two figures sharing chips and salsa, has been refined to make this human connection more prominent. The packaging system also introduces improved shelf navigation. A cream-toned base distinguishes core offerings like Original Restaurant Style, SCOOPS!®, and Bite Size Rounds, while vibrant color accents differentiate flavored varieties such as Hint of Lime and Mexican Street Corn. According to Jess Spaulding, vice president of marketing at PepsiCo Foods U.S., the refresh represents a long-overdue shift toward storytelling. The brand is now “leaning into how products fit naturally into how people cook, host, and connect today,” positioning Tostitos beyond traditional snacking and into broader food occasions.
THOMAS ROSKELLY
CREATIVE DIRECTOR/OWNER
ROSKELLY,
INC., PORTSMOUTH RI
Roskelly has earned more than 35+ years of experience as a creative lead at advertising agencies in New York, Los Angeles and southern Florida before settling in Rhode Island and starting his own firm. Clients have included Fortune 500 companies like AT&T, General Electic, AlphaBroder, and Reebok, along with regional brands like The State of Rhode Island Arts Council, Red Jacket Resorts, Castle Group, The Mark Twain House & Museum, and The Preservation Society of Newport County.
Throughout his career, Roskelly’s work has been cited for creative excellence in branding, books, trade publications, and with industry awards. He has also received a Platinum Award from the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) beating out the Israel Ministry of Tourism.
Thomas Roskelly graduated from the School of Visual Arts (NY) where earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic design and illustration. He resides in coastal Rhode Island where he enjoys fishing and boating with his wife, Karen, and their two adult children.
WHAT PRINCIPLES GUIDE YOUR DESIGN DECISIONS?
Simplicity. I invest significant time studying my clients’ business and reviewing their objectives. I get to know their product or service, the direction in which they intend to head and the customers that they want to attract. When research is complete, I can understand the essence of their brand.
Using images, type and colors I translate that essence into a timeless memorable visual symbol that simply and effectively communicates their business and works effectively in all formats.
HOW DO YOU STAY RELEVANT IN AN INDUSTRY THAT CHANGES SO QUICKLY?
Our creative brains are better than any AI super computer … for now. Effective design comes from within. To be a good designer you need to use the tools of technology, but you also need to feed your creativity. The foundation of good design lies at the core of how we as creatives think. You need to be good at the basics, like drawing a circle without the aid of a computer.
Fueling your brain and your passion using new tools on new platforms requires you to keep those neurons firing. Meeting new people, changing your environment and exposing yourself to different visual stimuli are the best tools to ensure that you can create clear and relevant visual executions that effectively communicate, today and 20 years into the future.
(Our 63rd Annual People To Watch feature appears on our website and in our February 2026 print and digital editions. Unfortunately, this page was inadvertently omitted from the magazine versions. We apologize for the oversight and appreciate your understanding — The Editors.)
TOM UPTON
SENIOR BRAND DESIGNER
CITADEL CREDIT UNION, EXTON PA
Tom Upton is an award-winning designer with three decades of industry experience. His career spans early days in package design to a focused expertise within the financial services sector, including time at institutions like Bank of America. Tom is currently the Senior Brand Designer at Citadel Credit Union in Exton, Pennsylvania, where leads brand design and execution for the organization.
Citadel Credit Union is a not-for-profit, member-owned financial institution that provides banking, investments, and insurance services to more than 275,000 members, while also offering essential educational resources designed to help members build and maintain long-term financial security.
At $6.5 billion in assets, it is one of the Greater Philadelphia area’s largest credit unions.
BETWEEN NOW AND 2030, WHICH SPECIFIC SKILLS, TECHNOLOGIES, OR PRIORITIES WILL MATTER MOST IN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF GRAPHIC DESIGN?
The primary challenge is addressing the elephant in the room: Artificial Intelligence. AI is fundamentally reshaping our industry, but it will not replace the innate skills of human designers and creators.
The future lies in finding a productive equilibrium, a critical design foundation fused seamlessly with AI tools.
Much like the introduction of the computer revolutionized the design studio, AI will serve as a powerful accelerator for creativity, not a substitute. Designers who embrace this partnership will be the leaders of the next decade.
WHAT PRINCIPLES GUIDE YOUR DESIGN DECISIONS?
My guiding design philosophy has always centered on the power of Simple Design.
In today’s saturated visual landscape, we rarely have more than a fleeting moment to capture a consumer’s attention.Our designs must be ruthless in cutting through the clutter and communicating their core message instantaneously.
This belief crystallized into my career-long mantra, which remains my compass today: “Simplify, then simplify again.” By stripping away the non-essential, we elevate clarity, maximize impact, and ensure the message truly resonates.
(Our 63rd Annual People To Watch feature appears on our website and in our February 2026 print and digital editions. Unfortunately, a section of this page was inadvertently omitted from the magazine versions. We apologize for the oversight and appreciate your understanding - The Editors.)
HIGHEST HONORS TOP DESIGN SCHOOLS
Here it is—our annual roundup of the top design schools and programs for 2026, each offering a dynamic approach to both the craft and the creative process in an ever-evolving field. These institutions go beyond traditional design education; they cultivate critical thinking, adaptability, and a passion for innovation, ensuring graduates are ready to lead and shape the future of design. Curated through a combination of industry trends, academic excellence, and feedback from designers, educators, and hiring professionals, this selection highlights institutions that are championing growth in all its forms: personal, professional, and societal. Presented alphabetically, this list shines a spotlight on the programs that are pushing boundaries and equipping tomorrow’s designers with the skills to make a lasting impact.
ACADEMY OF ART UNIVERSITY (AAU)
SAN FRANCISCO CA
The School of Graphic Design at the Academy of Art University is founded on one core belief: strong designers are developed through hands-on practice, critical thinking, and a profound understanding of design fundamentals. Our program emphasizes typography, visual systems, layout, branding, UI/UX, and digital design.
Our curriculum is structured to reflect how design works in the real world. Students learn how to think conceptually, communicate visually, and execute work with clarity and intention. Courses are taught by working professionals who understand both the craft and the industry’s expectations, guiding students in building thoughtful, professional portfolios.
As part of the School of Brand Communications, graphic design students collaborate with peers across advertising, interaction design, UI/UX, and communications. These interdisciplinary experiences mirror professional studio environments and often include real-world projects with industry partners such as CBS, NBC, Adobe, and Apple.
Students are introduced to emerging tools, including AI, as part of a broader design process. AI is positioned to support ideation and exploration, introduced after students have developed a strong foundation in design thinking and execution.
Whether students are pursuing a degree or taking individual courses, the program is designed to prepare them for professional practice, with a clear focus on craft, strategy, and portfolio development. academyart.edu
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY TEMPE AZ
At the nation’s largest and most comprehensive design school, the Bachelor of Science in Design (BSD) in Graphic Design at The Design School at Arizona State University (ASU) empowers students to shape meaningful communication across media, cul-
ture and community.
Housed in The Design School within the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts, this studio-based program blends foundation craft with forward-looking digital practice. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) with full-term accreditation, our program’s curriculum spans traditional and contemporary approaches to prepare students for a field that is constantly evolving.
Students begin by mastering core design principles — typography, layout, color and hand-making processes such as bookbinding and presentation craft. Advanced coursework expands into digital and motion design, branding, web and interface design, publication and interactive media. Throughout the program, students learn a strategic, research-driven design process and explore design solutions for local and global communities.
Students engage in coursework that hands‐on, collaborative and set in real-world environments within their studios. Graduates emerge with a professional-level portfolio showcasing diverse design skills and are prepared to succeed in the design industry.
Why study graphic design at The Design School?
• This is a highly regarded program within a top-ranked design school with a broad, interdisciplinary perspective
• Curriculum that blends foundational craft, concept development and cutting-edge digital tools
• Real-world learning that strengthens visual literacy, storytelling and critical thinking
• Flexible learning options: study on ASU’s Tempe campus or online
Creative, curious and motivated students who thrive in collaborative, idea-driven environments will find the BSD in Graphic Design at The Design School to be an inspiring place to grow. The program supports personal exploration while offering the structure and mentorship needed to develop industry-ready skills. Graduates leave prepared to launch meaningful and impactful design careers. design.asu.edu
ARTCENTER COLLEGE OF DESIGN PASADENA CA
ArtCenter College of Design educates designers to excel in craft and develop their unique vision. We believe design is critical to business, community, and society. We research, strategize, develop concepts, prototype, and execute to create sublime solutions that move the viewer.
In our Undergraduate Graphic Design Program, we foster the highest standards of creativity and critical thinking, visual and cultural literacy, craftsmanship, professionalism and collaboration, leadership and ethical purpose, and a readiness to be
HIGHEST HONORS | 2026 TOP DESIGN SCHOOLS
lifelong learners. We offer five areas of emphasis that can be combined together, allowing students to develop unique skillsets: Motion, Visual Interaction Design, Print, Package Design, and Transmedia (design systems explored through traditional and emerging media).
Our Graduate Graphic Design Program is committed to powerful, unexpected ideas supported by practical, reality-based solutions across all media. We rigorously educate designers to both create and lead, empowering them to make influential design while continually expanding the boundaries of the discipline. Ultimately, we cultivate creative leaders equipped to shape the next generation of the global design profession.
Our MDes in Brand Design and Strategy online program focuses on brand strategy and innovation, in which students explore the broader constructs of successful brand strategy, building, and management. This program fosters the designer’s ability to be a chief decision-maker, with the skills and tools to lead teams and create change.
In 2025, ArtCenter was ranked the #1 Graphic Design school in the U.S. by The One Club, a recognition of the strength, ability, and extraordinary talent of our students. artcenter.edu
AUBURN UNIVERSITY
AUBURN AL
Housed within the School of Industrial and Graphic Design (SIGD) in the College of Architecture, Design and Construction (CADC), the Graphic Design (GDES) Program at Auburn University prepares students to practice visual communication in a competitive global environment. Auburn’s nationally regarded B.F.A. in Graphic Design is NASAD-accredited, and the curriculum emphasizes a systemic approach to design that enables students to become versatile designers, art directors and economically viable professionals.
GDES students receive hands-on instruction in a professional studio environment that fosters a strong sense of community among students and faculty. Students establish a foundation in drawing, 2D/3D design, and typography in lower-level coursework. Foundational skills are then applied and extended in upper-level coursework experiences that include interactive design, user experience design (UI/UX), motion graphics, brand identity systems, speculative design, publication design, packaging, illustration, and image-making.
The GDES program introduces students to the professional design community by hosting exhibitions, symposia, and guest lectures by industry leaders. An internship program provides students with real-world experience and networking opportunities. Graduates emerge with a well-developed portfolio that demonstrates the comprehensive scope of their design education. cadc.auburn.edu/design/
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY MUNCIE IN
Founded in 1918, Ball State University is a research-intensive, residential institution in Muncie, Indiana, serving roughly 22,000 students. The School of Art offers state-of-the-art facilities supported by faculty and staff who are accomplished artists, designers, scholars, and creators with active national and international profiles. Enrolling more than 700 students, the NASAD-accredited programs in the School of Art include BA, BS, and BFA degrees in a wide range of areas, including Graphic Design, Graphic Design Studies, Graphic Communications Man-
agement, Animation (Animation Production, Game Art/Design, Illustration, VFX Animation), Studio Art (Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, Sculpture, Photography, Ceramics, Glass, Metals + Jewelry, Video and New Media), Art History, and Art Education.
The BFA in Graphic Design delivers a rigorous interdisciplinary education that promotes cultural awareness and prepares students for real-world professional expectations. Students develop strong problem-solving abilities, technical proficiency, and digital competence across a variety of media. The program’s top-tier facilities feature industry-standard computers, software, and equipment, enabling students to excel in both traditional and emerging forms of design. Graphic Design at Ball State encompasses branding, publication design, UX/UI design, website design, motion graphics, typography, and packaging.
Collaboration and community engagement are central to the School of Art experience. Students work closely with faculty, alumni, and peers to build a solid foundation in design concepts, visual communication, and professional practice. Students also have the opportunity to participate in Studio 165+, an award-winning, student-run design studio, where they gain hands-on experience producing work for local, regional, national, and international clients. bsu.edu/art
Dr. Lara Kuykendall, Director of the School of Art, Associate Professor of Art History
email: lkuykendall@bsu.edu
Shantanu Suman, Associate Professor of Graphic Design
email: ssuman@bsu.edu
BAYLOR UNIVERSITY WACO TX
Baylor University is a private Christian University and a nationally ranked Research 1 institution. The University provides a vibrant campus community for more than 20,000 students by blending interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship. The Department of Art and Art History at Bay-
lor offers an emphasis in graphic design within the studio art major. The studio art major provides students the opportunity to develop their hand and aesthetic skills and conceptual development. In addition to foundation courses, students take graphic design courses in Conceptual Development, Typography, Identity Design and Branding, Advanced Typography, UX/UI design, and Portfolio. An elective internship course is also available for those students wishing to take advantage of professional practice in the field. Graduates have gone on to work in design studios and major advertising agencies, and some have also started design studios and advertising agencies of their own.
Located near the heart of thriving Nashville, Tennessee, Belmont University (belmont.edu) has approximately 9,000 students from every state and over 30 countries, with an average class size of 19 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1. The University is nationally recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to undergraduate teaching (U.S. News & World Report).
As a Christ-centered, student-focused community, Belmont’s mission is to develop diverse leaders of purpose, character, and wisdom who possess a transformational mindset and are eager and equipped to make the world a better place.
Watkins College of Art at Belmont University offers Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees and post-graduate programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. These programs include Art Studies, Art Education, Art History, Design Communications (Graphic Design), Experiential Graphic Design, Illustration, Photography, Photographic Studies, and Studio Art. The Design Communications (B.F.A.) program features a portfolio-based graphic design curriculum that equips students with a broad spectrum of skills, focusing on information, communication, and a deep understanding of user-centric design. Graduates of Belmont’s Design program become positive contributors to the local, national, and international media landscape, competing effectively in any market.
Watkins College of Art’s mission is to educate purpose-driven artists and designers with a global perspective and an entrepreneurial mindset, thereby making them valuable contributors to their communities. The college also offers opportunities for studying abroad, internships, and community education programs.
For those interested in the Design Communications program or seeking more information about Watkins College of Art, please get in touch with Elise Haines, Admissions Coordinator, at 615.460.6772 or via email at elise.haines@belmont.edu. belmont.edu/watkins
BOSTON UNIVERSITY
BOSTON MA
The Graphic Design program at Boston University College of Fine Arts School of Visual Arts takes a studio-driven approach to design thinking and visual communication. With an emphasis on process and critical design thinking, the program sets itself apart as a maker-based design department within an art school and a R1 University. The design faculty are leaders in the field who work closely with students to develop their technical and conceptual skills, challenging them to think creatively and strategically, and placing them at the forefront of entrepreneurial thinking in the business world. bu.edu/cfa/academics/degrees-programs/graphic-design
BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY
BOWLING GREEN OH
For nearly 115 years, Bowling Green State University has been a public university for the public good, always moving forward. BGSU is a high-research, nationally ranked, comprehensive university, always proud to be public. The BGSU Graphic Design program educates and mentors its students to become independent and collaborative innovators and leaders in the field of graphic design. Our award-winning program is dynamic, enterprising, and responsive, and leads to a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design. Our multi-faceted curricula merges design ideologies and research with appropriate aesthetic and communication methods
through intensive critical analysis, exploration and experimentation. Students are taught and trained to be mindful professionals and socio-politically aware stewards for the profession and the world. Our practical and theoretical approach to foster and guide clarity of communication is the foundation for a progressive and fluid curriculum— one that graduates thinkers with curious minds.
For more information, contact Jenn Stucker (jstuck@bgsu.edu), Professor and Chair, Graphic Design. bgsu.edu/graphicdesign
BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY
PROVO UT
Brigham Young University (BYU) is a large private religious university in Provo, Utah, serving 34,000+ students from over 100 countries and all 50 states. The BYU Graphic Design program has a history of producing award-winning work and enjoys an established international reputation. The major simulates a professional studio experience with students working to solve complex visual problems. As members of a small cohort group, students complete a variety of individual and collaborative projects under close faculty direction. BYU’s Graphic Design BFA program aspires to prepare students with the skills, knowledge, and intellect necessary to be excellent visual communicators and to foster innovation through problem solving, collaboration, and design thinking. The program aims to cultivate designers that encourage human flourishing, foster charitable interactions, and promote societal and ecological well-being today and in the future. BYU emphasizes experiential learning on and off-campus, both in its extensive study abroad programs and our program’s national internship placements. designdept.byu.edu/graphicdesign
California College of the Arts (CCA), founded in 1907, is an art and design college in the San Francisco Bay Area known for preparing students to influence culture through creative work. With a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, the college emphasizes hands-on learning, collaboration, and social and environmental responsibility. Its location offers students access to a dynamic community of artists, designers, and industry professionals.
CCA’s BFA in Communication Design empowers students to shape cultural conversations through thoughtful visual language. Building on CCA’s hands-on, socially minded ethos, the program teaches how design can inform experience and spark change. Through a carefully woven curriculum of typography, image-making, interaction, and systems thinking, students develop both conceptual insight and aesthetic skill. They experiment across analog and digital platforms, from letterpress and risograph to motion design, AR/VR, and data visualization, moving through foundational studios into advanced coursework. The journey culminates in a self-directed senior thesis, resulting in a distinctive portfolio grounded in purpose, creativity, and innovation. www.cca.edu/design/communication-design/
CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF THE ARTS (CALARTS)
SCHOOL OF ART
VALENCIA CA
The CalArts Graphic Design Program fosters the next generation of graphic designers through rigorous inquiry, fearless exploration, and innovative making. Students develop formal and critical thinking skills to establish their own unique approaches and individual perspectives with the support of faculty and the studio community.
The Graphic Design curriculum integrates the Institute’s critical approach, placing practice within the context of history, theory, interdisciplinarity, and broader cultures. Classes are small, inti-
mate, and critique driven. Studio and lecture courses include print, web, UI/UX, motion, typography, branding, history, and theory. Graduates prepare for design careers and opportunities in professional, independent, and entrepreneurial pursuits.
Students work in year-level studios where individual and collaborative learning is encouraged. This dynamic environment includes art and media labs, galleries, the library, performance spaces, the café and outdoor patios, and proximity to the five other schools calarts.edu/academics/programs-and-degrees/bfa-graphic-design
CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF DESIGN PITTSBURGH PA www.design.cmu.edu/
COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO CHICAGO IL
Columbia College Chicago’s School of Design offers two programs in graphic design, a BFA and BA. Both degrees give students the tools and experience needed to launch a career in graphic design within a broader program of foundational studies in art and design. Students also gain a strong business foundation, which will prepare them to join a design firm, an agency, an in-house corporate design team, or launch their own freelance business. The BFA is a rigorous, professionally focused degree
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in graphic design. The BFA requires students to learn multiple disciplines and has fewer opportunities to choose electives. The BA provides a foundation in design but allows students to double major or choose a minor. All graphic design students develop a professional portfolio of work senior year as part of the requirements of the degree programs. www.colum.edu/academics/design/
THE COOPER UNION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF SCIENCE AND ART NEW YORK NY
The School of Art at The Cooper Union has a mission to educate artists in the broadest sense, both as creative practitioners engaged with a wide range of disciplines in the visual arts and as enlightened citizens of the world who are prepared to question and transform society. The program is structured around an integrated curriculum that fosters connections between disciplines, as well as between traditional and new media. The Foundation Program consists of a series of prerequisite courses taken during the first year. Following completion of the Foundation Program, disciplines offered are graphic design, drawing, film and video, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. Students may choose to focus on one or more areas of specialization and are encouraged to follow an integrated approach. The graphic design curriculum includes courses on typography, web design, game design, information design, motion graphics and more. cooper.edu/art
DEPAUL UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF DESIGN CHICAGO IL
University’s
prepares students to communicate to diverse audiences through a wide range of design practices, integrating emerging media and contemporary technologies, including typography, interaction design, branding, illustration, motion graphics, package design, programming, artificial intelligence, and digital fabrication.
Located in the heart of Chicago, our program offers a vibrant design community and creates opportunities for collaboration, networking, and internships. Housed in the Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media, students have access to cutting-edge equipment and lab spaces, including a print lab, two well-equipped makerspaces with facilities for fabricating wood, metal, plastics, soft goods, and electronics; recording, film, stop-motion animation, and motion-capture studios; and several VR and AR production spaces. The Jarvis Student Center for Innovation and Collaboration brings together students and faculty from across the college and provides a media lounge for lectures and presentations, an XR creative studio, and private spaces and conference rooms for meetings. We also offer significant funding opportunities for students, including the Design IMPACT Grants, Jarvis Challenge, and research assistantships.
Award-winning faculty oversee a host of initiatives, design labs, and research programs that foster student learning, engagement, and community. Students also lead their own initiatives, including our DePaul Design Club, maker space, Print Lab, and digital fabrication studio. Design-related study abroad programs in Japan and Scandinavia provide our students with a global context for their practice. www.cdm.depaul.edu/design
DREXEL UNIVERSITY PHILADELPHIA PA
The creative heart of Drexel University, the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design trains the next generation of scholars, thinkers, makers, and doers in the fields of media, entertainment, design, and the visual and performing arts. Westphal offers 16 undergraduate and seven graduate majors, housed in award-winning facilities that encourage collaboration across creative disciplines. The Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design educates students to inform, persuade, educate, and entertain through the creative use of word and image. The program prepares students with diverse backgrounds to enter the field of graphic design with a competitive edge as skilled design practitioners, creative problem solvers, and multi-talented team members.
The Graphic Design BFA Program of the Communication Design Pathways Department educates creative, socially responsible, and worldly professionals who are well positioned for a broad range of art and design fields. It challenges students to generate problem-solving and culture-making design, through experimentation and collaboration attuned to social, environmental as well as commercial challenges. It is an intensive, professionally oriented course of study that relies heavily on typographic craftsmanship,
DePaul
BFA in Graphic Design
design authorship and motion design. The program presents an annual lecture series for its design students and multiple student curated exhibitions. It facilitates Study Abroad, internships and professional interaction opportunities. Courses are taught by accomplished practicing designers and scholars. fitnyc.edu/academics/academic-divisions/art-and-design/ graphic-design/index.php
FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF FINE ART
TALLAHASSEE FL cfa.fsu.edu/
FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY
WINTER PARK FL
Full Sail University is an award-winning educational leader for those pursuing careers in entertainment media and emerging technologies. Founded in 1979, Full Sail has received numerous accolades throughout its 45-year history, including being named a Graphic Design USA Top Design School. Full Sail University is a graduate and undergraduate degree-granting institution offering on-campus and online degree programs in areas related to Art & Design, Business, Film & Television, Games, Media & Communications, Music & Recording, Sports, and Technology. With over 100,000 graduates worldwide, Full Sail alumni have worked on countless award-winning projects with individual recognition including Oscar®, Emmy®, Grammy®, Addy® and The Game Award honors.
Located in Winter Park, FL, Full Sail University’s 210+ acres campus is home to 110+ studios and labs, 75+ classrooms, and 880,000+ square feet of real-world media production facilities. The university’s art and design degree programs are designed to equip artists with a comprehensive toolbox, combining traditional skills with digital techniques. Art and Design degree programs at Full Sail University include: Computer Animation Bachelor’s, Digital Arts & Design Bachelor’s, Game Art Bachelor’s, Graphic Design Bachelor’s, User Experience Bachelor’s, Media Design MFA. www.fullsail.edu
IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY AMES IA
The Graphic Design Department at Iowa State is situated in the College of Design, one of the most comprehensive institutions for art and design education, which leads to a strong multidisciplinary network of design thinking for our 300+ students. The department includes an undergraduate BFA in Graphic Design, a Masters in Experiential Graphic Design, and a Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. The curriculum emphasizes how to design through organization of visual and verbal information. Our concept-based approach can be applied to printed material, digital media, motion, and environmental graphics.
Students learn to create designs based in a solid understanding of the history and fundamentals of graphic design. They hone their skills through elective studios in a variety of topics including UX design, 3D animation, digital media, motion graphics, exhibition design, packaging design, wayfinding, typography, publication design and branding. They enhance their education with internships or study abroad, including a semester in Italy with our Rome Program.
Our mission is to educate experiential communicators who enrich our ethical, social, cultural, and environmental future. We prepare students to be adept in the ever-evolving graphic design discipline in the creation of communication artifacts and systems that inform and inspire in virtual and physical environments. design.iastate.edu/academics/departments/graphic-design/
KANSAS CITY ART INSTITUTE (KCAI)
KANSAS CITY MO
KCAI is a college of art and design awarding the B.F.A. degree in 13 majors. We recruit top talent from across the country and equip them with a versatile skill set and the fearlessness to pursue their craft. KCAI’s Graphic Design department takes a wide-ranging view of the possibilities for visual communication, introducing students to the principles of print, interaction, motion, environment, experience, information, and advocacy.
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Our approach to design problems can best be described as exploratory, systematic, and transmedia. We recognize the complexity of contemporary design and seek to foster critical and surprising responses through a rigorous process of research, thinking, form-making, and connection to various external communities kcai.edu/academics/Majors_Minors/majors/Graphic-Design/
KEAN UNIVERSITY
UNION NJ
The Robert Busch School of Design (RBSD), Michael Graves College, Kean University, stands among America’s premier design schools through its distinctive combination of nationally recognized faculty, integrated professional experience, and commitment to equity and excellence.
Students learn from thought leaders who actively shape the field, including Distinguished Professor Robin Landa (2025 New Jersey Advertising Hall of Fame and 2025 AIGA Steven Heller Prize recipient) and Associate Professor Ed Johnston, whose innovative work bridges creative technology and design, representing mentorship from contemporary practitioners.
Professional immersion begins day one. Students work with real clients through the in-house design studio practicum and attend the annual Thinking Creatively Conference, which brings luminaries such as Nick Law, Stefan Sagmeister, and Debbie Millman to campus. Regular field trips to New York City agencies and studios place students at the epicenter of global innovation.
The program’s four undergraduate concentrations—Advertising, Graphic Design, Interior Design, and Industrial Design—foster cross-disciplinary collaboration that mirrors contemporary practice. Students develop fluency in art direction, branding, UI/UX, motion design, and social media alongside technologies like AI, AR, and VR, cultivating the creative thinking that distinguishes outstanding portfolios.
RBSD makes excellence accessible. Affordable study-abroad opportunities in Rome and Wenzhou, China, build cultural litera-
cy essential for global design practice. As part of an R2 Research Institution and federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, the School combines innovation with equity.
Graduates leave with award-winning portfolios, industry connections, and recognition from GDUSA, The One Club, PRINT, D&AD, Graphis, and CommArts—prepared not just to enter the profession, but to elevate it.
Graphic Communications at Kennesaw State University is one of the largest and most dynamic programs in the School of Art and Design. Designed for creative innovators,the program blends design, technology, and visual storytelling to prepare students for success in today’s rapidly changing global marketplace. Through hands-on projects and real-world experiences, students gain thetechnical skills, creative confidence, and professional versatility that employers value.
Accredited by NASAD, the School of Art and Design (SOAAD) offers exciting degree options, including the BFA in Art, the BFA in Digital Animation, and the MA in Art and Design. Located just outside Atlanta, SOAAD connects students directly to one of the nation’s most vibrant creative hubs, opening doors to internships, collaborations, and careers across local and international industries. arts.kennesaw.edu/visual-arts
KENT STATE UNIVERSITY
KENT OH
Kent State University’s School of Visual Communication Design (VCD) offers a nationally accredited, cross-disciplinary education known for its innovative curriculum. The school cultivates creative problem-solving aligned with current professional expectations, spanning motion design, photography, illustration, typography and interaction design.
The school offers B.A., B.F.A. and B.S. degrees in Visual Communication Design, Photography and User Experience Design as well as pathways to M.A. and M.F.A. graduate programs. This fusion of design thinking and technical skill prepares graduates to build immersive systems and solve complex problems in a digital-first world.
The School of Visual Communication is the largest program of its kind in the state of Ohio, and our alumni launch successful careers as creative leaders and designers at world-renowned organizations across diverse sectors, including technology giants like Microsoft and Amazon, entertainment powerhouses like Disney and Netflix, and major brands such as NASA and American
Greetings.
Students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities, professional internships and collaborative projects through initiatives like Glyphix and IdeaBase, which connect classroom learning with industry practice. Ranked among the nation’s best, Kent State’s VCD is the ideal destination for aspiring designers, photographers and creative professionals seeking a comprehensive, forward-thinking education. kent.edu/vcd
MARYLAND INSTITUTE COLLEGE OF ART (MICA) BALTIMORE MD mica.edu
MASSACHUSETTS COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN (MASSART) BOSTON MA
Mercer University Department of Art & Design offers a comprehensive curriculum that encourages the investigation of contemporary directions in art, imaging, and visual communication, housed within a vibrant liberal arts program. By working in a wide range of print and interactive media, students develop cohesive portfolios appropriate for the pursuit of graduate studies or professional practice. Theory, methodology, and industry-standard technology are taught by award-winning faculty members to prepare students for success in this continually evolving field of study.
Michigan State University, founded in 1855 as a pioneering land-grant institution, is one of the top research universities in the world — on one of the biggest, greenest campuses in the nation — and is home to a diverse community of dedicated students and scholars, athletes and artists, scientists and leaders. Within the Department of Art, Art History, and Design, students in the Graphic Design Program are exposed to a series of experimental and intellectual exercises that prepare them for a wide range of professional careers in design. Notable alum, such as Katherine and Michael McCoy, Sam Landers, Doug Kisor, and Ellen Bruss, have made historic contributions to design history and continue to give back to our students in lasting and meaningful ways. Real-world experience is gained through internships, the client-initiated coursework of Design Center, and the AIGA student group. Inspiring lectures demonstrate the wide scope of the profession, as renowned designers are brought in as part of the annual Visiting Artist & Scholar Lecture Series. Past lecturers
include Massimo Vignelli, Martin Venezky, Ben Fry, Nancy Skolos & Tom Wedell, James Victore, Andrew Blauvelt, Jim Sherraden, Stuart Bailey, Jan Wilker, Hans Allemann, and Karen Cheng. art.msu.edu
MILWAUKEE INSTITUTE OF ART AND DESIGN (MIAD)
MILWAUKEE WI
As a future designer, art director, or creative director working within a diverse global community, the Communication Design program at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design prepares students to create compelling 2D, 3D, and 4D visual communication that informs, engages, and educates in innovative ways.
Students think conceptually while developing visual literacy and a distinct creative voice through thought-provoking, engaging projects that challenge skills and encourage growth. They learn to communicate ideas clearly and create visually compelling solutions to complex problems. Throughout the program, students build strong presentation and collaboration skills while developing their portfolios through specialized electives, real client projects, and design internships in Milwaukee and beyond.
MIAD’s top-ranked Communication Design program allows students to focus on the areas that interest them most while preparing for an ever-changing creative marketplace. Designed to provide the tools, knowledge, and professional experience necessary for long-term success, the program prepares graduates to lead their own creative businesses and hold key positions at advertising agencies, design firms, and major corporations. www.miad.edu/academic-programs/degree-programs/communication-design
Unleash creativity and launch a career in graphic design with Montana State University’s NASAD-accredited BFA program! This nationally recognized, four-year degree prepares students for dynamic careers in the creative industries, with a 30-year history of placing graduates in top design firms, advertising agencies, and creative industries.
The curriculum combines foundational art and design courses with advanced topics like Typography, Identity Systems, UX/ UI, Motion Graphics, Publication Design and Design for Society while incorporating hands-on experience in Letterpress printing. Students also gain access to professional industry grade resources, including large-format printers, a Risograph duplicator, binding tools, laser cutting and 3D Printing.
Faculty guide students every step of the way, from building a portfolio to landing a dream job. With its focus on creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation, the program equips students for success in a competitive field. art.montana.edu/areas-of-study/graphic-design.html
THE MODERN COLLEGE OF DESIGN KETTERING OH
The Modern College of Design is a nationally recognized creative college in Ohio, where students prepare for innovative careers in design, media, and technology. The Modern develops storytellers, makers, problem solvers, and vision-driven creators into exceptional designers and future leaders in the field. Programs are rooted in design, marketing, and leadership and are available through flexible residential, hybrid, and online pathways. Learning extends beyond the classroom through internships and co-ops, and the work students create earns recognition in national design competitions. Faculty who are active industry professionals guide and mentor students, and graduates have access to a strong employer network that provides career opportunities across today’s evolving creative industries. themodern.edu
THE NEW SCHOOL, PARSONS SCHOOL OF DESIGN NEW YORK NY newschool.edu/parsons/
NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY RALEIGH NC
The Graphic & Experience Design Program at NC State University’s College of Design blends user experience and user interface design (UX/UI) with traditional graphic design practices like branding, typography, service design, and exhibition design. Through project-based assignments, graphic & experience design students acquire strong formal and conceptual skills framed by a human-centered approach. Students progress to advanced studios that enable in-depth exploration of special topics such as data visualization, branding, accessible design, and artificial intelligence. The NC State Graphic & Experience Design (GXD) program is consistently recognized as one of the top NASAD-accredited design programs in the country. Students are embedded in a College of Design which allows them to thrive in a creative culture alongside fellow graphic & experience designers, industrial designers, landscape architects and architects. design.ncsu.edu
THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
COLUMBUS OH
At The Ohio State University, design education focuses on shaping what comes next through creativity, collaboration, and careful problem-solving. Students can explore four areas of study: Experiential Media Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, and Visual Communication Design. All lead to the Bachelor of Science in Design. Visual Communication Design was recently earned the #3 spot on CollegeRank’s list of top bachelor’s degrees.
Across all programs, students engage in hands-on projects that challenge them to think critically, design responsibly, and create solutions that exceed professional standards. Collaboration is at the heart of our approach, fostering connections across disciplines and preparing graduates to lead in a rapidly evolving design landscape.
For those seeking advanced study, the Department of Design offers two research-driven Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs in Design Research and Development and Digital Animation and Interactive Media.
As part of one of the nation’s top 50 universities and the highest ranked public university in Ohio, Ohio State gives aspiring designers a place to learn, grow, and make an impact. design.osu.edu
OTIS COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN
LOS ANGELES CA www.otis.edu/index.html
PENNSYLVANIA COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN (PCA&D)
LANCASTER PA
At Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, we are makers and dreamers, designers and entrepreneurs. Here students learn to make creativity their careers. Located in the heart of Lancaster city’s thriving arts community, inspiration is found around every corner. It’s the personal attention and guidance from our faculty of working artists, coupled with internships and hands-on
experiences, that set us apart. A hallmark of our Graphic Design program is our annual Designathon event, a day-long push of brainstorming, designing, refining, production, and presentations, as students and faculty create free marketing materials — logos, websites, brochures, and branding — for local nonprofits. This deadline-driven adrenaline-filled experience prepares students well for their futures as they learn to design under pressure.
pcad.edu/degrees/graphic-design
PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY
SCHNITZER SCHOOL OF ART AND ART HISTORY AND DESIGN
PORTLAND OR pdx.edu/art-design/bfa-graphic-design
PRATT INSTITUTE
BROOKLYN NY www.pratt.edu
PRATT MUNSON COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN UTICA NY
Within the intimate and supportive atmosphere of our upstate campus, the Graphic Design program at Pratt Munson stands out as a transformative learning experience. Here, students acquire the essential skills to visually communicate ideas, explore cutting-edge tools, and shape perspectives within a dynamic and interconnected culture. The faculty, committed to fostering ambitious ideas, ensures a robust foundation in tradi
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SUSQUEHANNA UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF ART
SELINSGROVE PA
Founded in 2002, the Graphic Design program at Susquehanna University has spent two decades training and developing some of the nation’s top designers. The foundation of the program is simple—process and concept are king. Hard work is the reality, talent is the illusion. See everything. Solve the problem. Give a damn. These ideals fuel a community of designers that are changing the landscape of design every day through deadline-driven real word projects with the goal of creating competitive, industry ready portfolios. The School of the Arts’ award winning, nationally known graphic design program offers two degree options; the BFA for those looking for a career in the creative and fast-paced world of graphic design or advertising and the BA for those wishing to augment their first-choice major with professional design skills. Students will graduate with in demand skills, the industry knowledge that employers seek, and a widespread and supportive alumni network working professionally for some of the top agencies and companies throughout the country. Pairing true artistry with professionalism, doors open to thrilling creative opportunities and a career that’s durable, exciting, and satisfying. susqu.design/
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF DESIGN
SYRACUSE NY
The School of Design is an inquisitive community of students and faculty that addresses firsthand the issues of the world around it. State school officials: “We take pride in our professionally oriented programs, many of which have a long history at Syracuse University. Concern for sustainable design practices, social issues, and excellence in professional practice forms the core of our programs.” The School of Design’s first-year experience is a prerequisite, providing a design-studio-based education focused on the fundamental elements of the design disciplines. Students learn basic visualization and making skills as well as an ability to apply iterative thought and action processes to a given problem. In addition, students receive a focused introduction to the ethical and philosophical grounding of each of the design professions.
School of Design faculty are active professionals dedicated to ensuring that students reach their potential and provide one-onone instruction in studio classes. The School maintains a special relationship with the Syracuse community through the activities of various student groups (including chapters of professional design organizations) who work on projects with not-for-profit agencies as well as funded research design collaborations vpa.syr.edu/academics/design
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
S.I. NEWHOUSE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
SYRACUSE NY
Designed for students who want to get hired, create impact, and build a meaningful career in design.
At the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, students in the Graphic Design program gain industry-ready experience from their very first semester—working with real clients and building portfolios rooted in multiplatform storytelling, emerging media, and communication design. As part of the Visual Communications department, the program blends strategy, problem-solving, and human-centered design within one of the nation’s top communication schools, giving students a uniquely career-focused path unmatched by traditional art school models.
Students learn to communicate powerfully across media—brand identity, typography, publication design, product packaging, UI/ UX, interaction design, motion graphics, 3D, and extended reality (XR). Coursework emphasizes design systems, prototyping, inclusive design, AI-enabled workflows, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Real-world workshops, cross-media projects, and partnerships with industry professionals mirror contemporary studio practice and strengthen career readiness.
A core value of the program is designing for social good. Students explore how design can inform, inspire, and strengthen communities while building the agility to work across emerging tools, platforms, and technologies.
Graduates launch careers at leading creative and technology-driven organizations including IDEO, Google, Adobe, IBM, Amazon, The Washington Post, The New York Times, Sports Illustrated, National Geographic, Herman Miller, TripAdvisor, and the U.S. State Department, as well as innovative studios and successful independent practices.
Newhouse offers both a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design and a Master of Science in Multimedia, Photography, and Design, preparing designers to become confident, intentional, and career-ready storytellers. newhouse.syr.edu
Contact: Renée Stevens, rcsteven@syr.edu; Ken Harper, kharpe01@syr.edu
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY
TYLER SCHOOL OF ART AND ARCHITECTURE
PHILADELPHIA PA
tyler.temple.edu/academics/design-illustration
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF PERFORMANCE, VISUALIZATION AND FINE ARTS
COLLEGE STATION TX
pvfa.tamu.edu/academics/visualization-program/
TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF ART AND DESIGN
SAN MARCOS TX
Texas State University’s Communication Design Program is one of the largest public programs in the country and is one of the best in the Southwest United States. The program’s curriculum is oriented around the preparation of a superior portfolio with a focus on enabling students to become excellent critical thinkers, fearless makers, and effective communicators as they enter the professional field of communication design.
Many design programs are successful in teaching basic design principles and theory, but the Communication Design Program at Texas State University is renowned for teaching their graduates how to be creative and highly adaptable practitioners in the ever-changing field of design. We have strong ties with national businesses and organizations that offer job-shadowing, internships, mentoring, and meetups. Located between Austin and San Antonio, we’re rich with opportunities for our students to engage with area design professionals inside and outside of the classroom. Our graduates find placements in companies such as IBM, Vrbo, USAA, McGarrah Jessee, DDB, H-E-B Digital, Helm’s Workshop, Indeed, Disney, Google, Microsoft, Spotify, Verizon, frog design, and GSD&M. www.finearts.txst.edu/Art/academics/undergraduate/communication-design.html
THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
TUSCALOOSA AL
The BFA in Graphic Design program at The University of Alabama (UA) resides in the Department of Art and Art History in the Barefield College of Arts and Sciences. UA’s graphic design program is NASAD-accredited and prepares students to be technically versed, critical thinkers who create forms of visual communication that are dynamic and functional, and address the design goals of the contemporary world. The program offers courses on package design, publication design, brand and visual identity, illustration, motion design, UX/UI, typography, production, and more. Throughout the curriculum, students gain real-world experience with internships and classroom collaborations with businesses and organizations, have access to state-of-the-art technology and equipment, and finish with a competitive profes-
sional portfolio upon graduation. art.ua.edu/undergraduate/graphic-design/
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE LOS ANGELES CA arts.ucla.edu
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA EDMOND OK
The School of Design at UCO places student-centered excellence at the program’s core. This philosophy and practice are captured in a quote by former design student Emily Falls, “When I joined the School of Design, I knew virtually nothing about design. Now, three years later, I have found my calling as a designer, and I am proud of my work and accomplishments. There are plenty of challenges in the School of Design, and it is wildly rewarding in the end. The School of Design has shaped me into the person I am today, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.”
At UCO School of Design, students learn to be change-makers and social innovators while engaged in real-world work experience outside the typical design classroom. The School of Design is deeply committed to the university mission, which states we exist to help students learn by providing transformative education
experiences so that they may become productive, creative, ethical, and engaged citizens and leaders serving our global community. www.uco.edu/cfad/academics/design/
UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI, ULLMAN SCHOOL OF DESIGN
CINCINNATI OH
At the University of Cincinnati, communication design students receive a foundation in visual problem solving. The core of the curriculum is a series of sequential design studios. These courses help students develop critical and visual thinking along with essential design processes. Students also have opportunities to further develop in the specific areas of graphic design, interaction design, and motion design. Students reinforce their skills in the field through several co-ops.
Professional communication designers build careers wherever communication is important. Designers often work for design firms, internal design teams, or as independent freelancers. They have career opportunities in branding and corporate identity, digital product design, exhibit design, interface design, motion graphics, package design, service design, user experience design, and web design. Today’s designers may be found working in the healthcare system to improve health, or for governments and NGOs to impact society, or in entertainment to provide meaningful experiences for others. www.daap.uc.edu/academic-programs/school-of-design.html
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA SCHOOL OF ART AND ART HISTORY
At the Hartford Art School, students build the skills that will
enable them to successfully enter the professional world. The School offers eight studio majors leading to the BFA — including in Visual Communication Design — a BA program in Art History, and three MFA programs. Students have the best of both worlds, pursuing rigorous studio-based disciplines with a liberal arts university environment. Visual communication design students learn how to design static and interactive work, which can include motion graphics, product packaging, and advertising pieces. The program encompasses all visual languages used to communicate, and classes on design theory, methods, and history align with practical work with real clients by senior year. Designers in this program are able to think critically about how to tell a story using design elements rather than words, and to consider not only how work looks, but also about how people will interact with it. hartford.edu/academics/schools-colleges/art/default.aspx
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS CHICAGO CHICAGO IL
The School of Design at the University of Illinois Chicago is an established leader in design education. Grounded in studio culture and deeply involved with the human experience, UIC Design programs are organized to reflect and to advance developments in the field. Led by a faculty of renowned professional designers who are thoroughly committed to teaching, UIC Design students are introduced to contexts of culture and meaning as they develop the formal, conceptual, and technical skills necessary to confidently enter a professional setting.
Students at the UIC School of Design learn formal design principles, and they acquire the skills necessary to engage these principles in practice. At the undergraduate level, students are immersed in the aesthetics, mechanics, and systems of typography, while also developing skills in printing, bookmaking, motion literacy, user-interface, and web-based design. At the graduate level, students engage in projectoriented activities that foster analytical competence in research, writing, design history, and image theory, culminating in a public exhibition of the master’s research paper and project.
tional practices while offering guidance and support.
Our multidisciplinary approach to Graphic Design encompasses coursework in visual communication, typography, design procedures, and illustration. Through simulated professional projects, students gain hands-on experience in preparing artwork for publication, emphasizing real-world relevance. Pratt Munson prioritizes a supportive environment where world-class faculty provide personalized guidance and feedback, fostering a sense of community and creativity. Join us at Pratt Munson to embark on a journey that combines the prestige of Pratt Institute with the intimacy and affordability of our upstate campus. www.prattmunson.edu
PURDUE UNIVERSITY
WEST LAFAYETTE IN cla.purdue.edu/academic/rueffschool/ad/vcd/index.html
RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN (RISD) PROVIDENCE RI
RISD (pronounced “RIZ-dee”) is a creative community founded in 1877 in Providence, Rhode Island. Today, we enroll 2,606 students hailing from 62 countries. Led by a committed faculty, they are engaged in more than 40 full-time bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and supported by a worldwide network of over 33,000 alumni who demonstrate the vital role artists and designers play in today’s society.
Beyond facts and figures, what is the spirit of this community? Through a cross-disciplinary curriculum of studio-based learning and rigorous study in the liberal arts, RISD students are encouraged to develop their own personal creative processes, but they are united by one guiding principle: in order to create, one must question. In cultivating expansive and elastic thinking, RISD seeks to activate a critical exchange that empowers artists, designers and scholars to generate and challenge the ideas that shape our world. RISD’s mission, at both the college and museum, is not only to educate students and the public in the creation and appreciation of works of art and design, but to transmit that knowledge and make global contributions. risd.edu
RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN SARASOTA FL
Since 1931, Ringling College of Art and Design has cultivated the creative spirit in students from around the globe. The private, not-for-profit, fully accredited college offers the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 11 disciplines and the Bachelor of Arts in two. The College’s rigorous curriculum employs the studio model of teaching and immediately engages students through a comprehensive program that is both specific to the major of study and focused on the liberal arts. The Ringling College teaching model ultimately shapes students into highly employable and globally
aware artists and designers. For more information, visit www. ringling.edu and follow the College on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, and X.
Ringling College’s Graphic Design program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the design thinking process and its application to a diverse range of 2D, 3D, and screen-based media. Students learn strategies for creating concepts and designing interfaces that entice, inform, and surprise the user. Their work is regularly submitted to the ADDY Awards, and they have the opportunity to intern at the Ringling College Design Center. Ringling’s Graphic Design degree graduates work as graphic and product designers, creative and art directors, visual and interactive designers, or as freelancers with the freedom to hand-pick their projects. ringling.edu
ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN
ROCHESTER NY www.rit.edu/study/graphic-design-bfa
SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF ART AND DESIGN
SAN DIEGO CA art.sdsu.edu/
SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY
SAN JOSE CA
San José State University’s Graphic Design Program was formalized in 1969 and remains the only design program in a public university in Silicon Valley. Because of its accessible location in the Bay Area, students can work with design and technology industries, professional services, and organizations that connect with broader communities. These experiences, coupled with the required internships (for BFA GD majors only), will equip students with the skills and confidence to become effective contributors to the professional graphic design world. sjsugd.org.
SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN (SCAD)
SAVANNAH GA
SCAD is a private, nonprofit, accredited university, offering more than 100 graduate and undergraduate degree programs across locations in Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia; Lacoste, France; and online via SCADnow. The innovative SCAD graphic design curriculum is rooted in creative processes, problem-solving methodologies, and visualization concepts designed to connect users to brands. Each year, SCAD graphic design students earn illustrious accolades, including Applied Arts Student Awards, GDUSA, and International Design Awards. Career success is woven into every fiber of the university, resulting in a superior alumni employment rate. A 2025 study found that 99% of recent SCAD graduates were employed, pursuing further education, or both within 12 months of graduation. SCAD provides students and alumni with ongoing career support through personal coaching, alumni programs, a professional presentation studio, and more. Through SCADpro, the university’s in-house design studio, students join forces with luminaries of design, draw inspiration, and form lasting connections with industry powerhouses. The combination of advanced instruction and unrivaled portfolio-building opportunities leads to elite internships and careers with iconic companies such as Apple and IBM. scad.edu
SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO (SAIC) CHICAGO IL saic.edu
SCHOOL OF VISUAL ARTS (SVA) NEW YORK NY
Year after year, SVA ranks among the top design and advertising schools in the world, and has been a leader in the education of artists, designers, and creative professionals for over seven decades. Comprising 7,000 students at its Manhattan campus and more than 40,000 alumni worldwide working at Apple, Disney, Riot Games, Tiffany & Co., Instagram, Verizon, and more, SVA also represents one of the most influential artistic communities in the world.
BFA Design is a multidisciplinary educational system with concentrations in Graphic Design, Motion Design, Branding, Interaction Design, Emerging Media, Graphic Design for Fashion, and 3D Design.
Our made-just-for-you curriculum boasts one of the largest selections of studio courses in the world, led by award-winning, industry-leading faculty working at firms like HBO, Pentagram, Amazon, Meta, Squarespace, and COLLINS; networking is easy when you don’t need to leave the classroom.
Intern at top agencies, exhibit your work at prestigious venues, and collaborate with actual clients (recently, NASA and PRINT) to fill your résumé before you even graduate.
Master art direction, branding, integrated advertising, digital production, and critical and strategic thinking at BFA Advertising, and bring your big ideas to life in the advertising hub of the world.
You’re not just learning it, you’re living it: classes are regularly held at instructors’ agency offices, where you’ll work with real clients from environmental nonprofits to tech startups as part of SVA’s own student ad agency.
Students develop the competitive edge that places them at the top of their industry (and they’ve won the awards to prove it). Sharpen your voice, address real-world issues, and become the next team-building, world-changing creative leader. sva.edu
SESSIONS COLLEGE
Sessions College is a fully online school of visual arts offering a range of degree programs and certificate programs in Graphic Design, Web Design, Digital Media, Illustration, Advertising Design, Digital Photography and Fine Arts. The Sessions College Associate and Bachelor’s degree programs in Graphic Design offer an accessible, affordable path for students seeking to enter careers in print and interactive visual communication. Designed for high school graduates and adult learners, the programs offer a powerful foundation in visual design and a working knowledge of contemporary design practices and media. Talented, passionate experts teach the artistic, digital, and critical thinking skills required by dynamic creative fields sessions.edu
Design is city-centric and Chicago is a global design center. Through involvement in Chicago chapters of national design associations, employment in professional internships, and critical exposure to design practices and exhibitions, our students become active in the real world of design as they pursue their professional degree. design.uic.edu/
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
SCHOOL OF ART AND DESIGN CHAMPAIGN IL
The BFA program in Graphic Design negotiates challenges at the intersection of traditional craft and rapidly evolving communication technologies, preparing students to effect positive change in contemporary social and cultural systems.
We provide students with the necessary skills to challenge and shape the way we interact with the world around us—whether via the printed page or on mobile devices; through client-based commissions or personal projects; on virtual networks or in physical environments.
Coursework addresses graphic design fundamentals (typography, critical thinking, and image making), design history and contemporary practices, research methods, user experience, and social responsibility. Students engage with complex problems and are asked to identify opportunities where design can intervene. In addition, students can develop their personal interests by taking advantage of a highly interdisciplinary selection of elective courses offered by the School of Art & Design, including photography, video, traditional printmaking, sustainability, and advanced interaction design. art.illinois.edu
UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN LAWRENCE KS arcd.ku.edu/department-design
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS DENTON TX
The College of Visual Arts and Design (CVAD) at the University of North Texas offers a rigorous and thoughtfully crafted Communication Design curriculum that prepares students for successful careers in graphic design. CVAD is one of the nation’s most comprehensive visual arts schools and a leader in the Southwest, with state-of-the-art facilities that include studios, a fabrication lab, and a visual resources library.
The program begins with a foundational year, during which students develop visual problem-solving and critical-thinking skills while exploring art, culture, history, and interdisciplinary practices. Admission to the Graphic Design track is a competitive, two-step process. In their first year, students participate in a candidacy review, submitting a 6–10-piece portfolio, completing a design-thinking worksheet, and completing an in-person interview. This work is evaluated by the Graphic Design faculty, and approximately 60 students advance to the introductory ComDes courses. At the end of this course, students undergo a second portfolio review, with the top 40 candidates officially admitted into the Graphic Design track. Graduates of UNT’s Communication Design program are highly sought after, earning positions at leading design firms, advertising agencies, and corporate studios nationwide.
Located in Denton, a vibrant college town with a thriving arts and music scene, UNT is just 40 miles north of Dallas, a major hub for design and cultural opportunities. Established in 1890, UNT is a Carnegie Tier One research university with more than 40,760 students. cvad.unt.edu
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES CA
The USC Roski School of Art and Design has a noteworthy history as a supportive environment for talented students to explore creativity, experimentation, and collaboration with renowned faculty. Roski’s graduate programs are housed in a state-of-the-art facility located in the vibrant Los Angeles Arts District, a thriving community for art and design. The MFA Design program, in particular, instills a critical understanding of the issues, theories, and ideas relevant to contemporary design. Roski’s open approach offers myriad opportunities for interdisciplinary research and collaboration across the various other professional schools at USC, a leading research institution. This provides Roski design students with the extraordinary ability to integrate diverse pathways into their contemporary design practice. The faculty comprises a diverse group of internationally recognized artists, designers, and scholars dedicated to their students and their professional work. Small class sizes ensure close, personal instruction with abundant access to faculty. Additionally, students engage with visiting designers through lectures, classes, and portfolio reviews, facilitated by the Visiting Designer and Designer-in-Residence programs. roski.usc.edu
HIGHEST HONORS | 2026 TOP DESIGN SCHOOLS
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI SCHOOL OF PERFORMING AND VISUAL ARTS
HATTIESBURG MS
Established in 1910 the University of Southern Mississippi is a tier one research institution that has provided a quality education in visual arts for 110 years. As 1 of only 43 institutions in the nation accredited in all major art forms it is considered the flagship university for the arts in the state of Mississippi. The graphic design program has a rich history dating back to 1946 and has produced distinguished alums which include an AIGA Medalist, and numerous design industry leaders.
The design program continues to develop this rich tradition of success which can be seen through our students’ award-winning work that has garnered over 300 awards in the past 5 years. Our BFA curriculum focuses on visual literacy; development of conceptual, aesthetic, and visual skills; and creative problem solving. In addition to traditional course work students can experience design in one of 2 student lead agencies: Rise Creative, and SPVA Design and Marketing. Our students also enjoy a rich culture and active community within our program with large, active student organizations that travel to design conferences, portfolio reviews and competitions. usm.edu/performing-visual-arts/index.php
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN SCHOOL OF DESIGN AND CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIES
THE UNIVERSITY OF UTAH COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS SALT LAKE CITY UT www.art.utah.edu/graphic-design/
UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON SEATTLE WA art.washington.edu/division-design
VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF THE ARTS (VCUARTS) RICHMOND VA arts.vcu.edu/graphic-design/
VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE AND STATE UNIVERSITY BLACKSBURG VA
Virginia Tech takes a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to prepare students to be leaders and problem-solvers. As a leading research institution, Virginia Tech offers about 280 undergraduate and graduate degree programs to more than 34,000 students. Through experiential learning, future-focused research, and inclusive, spirited culture, the institution strives to accomplish the charge of its motto Ut Prosim (That I May Serve). The Graphic and Experience Design program prepares students for a career in design by focusing on conceptual thinking, user experience, and problem-solving, while also developing aesthetic sensibilities. The program demands individual creativity, teamwork, and adaptability, and will prepare students to enter the job market with practical experience and a professionally reviewed portfolio. Graduates work in app design, motion design, product and packaging design, web and interaction design, advertising, and other related fields. sova.vt.edu
WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN ST. LOUIS ST. LOUIS MO
The Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts at Washington University in St. Louis is a leader in architecture, art, and design education. We advance our fields through innovative research and creative practice, excellence in teaching, a world-class university art museum, and a deep commitment to addressing the social and environmental challenges of our time. We offer more than a dozen unique degree programs within a tier-one research university for both graduate and undergraduate students, supplemented by several creative research centers, including Island Press, the Office for Socially Engaged Practice, and the Dowd Illustration Research Archive. Undergraduates in design may pursue a BFA or a BA as well as second majors and minors in diverse academic fields.
Students are free to explore drawing, typography, graphic design, illustration, book arts, and interaction design and more. The MFA in Illustration & Visual Culture program combines studio practice in illustration and writing with the study of visual and material culture. With a focus on illustrator authorship, this two-year, fully residential program is made for illustrators, comic artists, and designers interested in popular visual matter. WashU’s new Master of Design for Human-Computer Interaction and Emerging Technology is a two-year, STEM-designated program offering an innovative approach to digital product design, prioritizing societal issues, ethical and moral concerns, and the larger implications of technology. samfoxschool.washu.edu/
WOODBURY UNIVERSITY BURBANK CA
Located in the heart of Burbank, California, Woodbury University’s Experience Design (BDes) program—housed within the School of Media : Culture : Design—is a premier destination for aspiring creatives. Transitioning from its roots in Graphic Design, the program now offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Design degree. This forward-thinking curriculum integrates Communication Design, Product Design, and Service Design (UX/UI), ensuring students are equipped for the multifaceted demands of the 2025 creative economy.
The program’s excellence is backed by dual accreditation from NASAD and WSCUC. Most notably, it has maintained a prestigious streak for nearly a decade, consistently ranking among the top thirty design programs in the United States. This reputation is fueled by a curriculum that balances traditional craft with cutting-edge technology, covering everything from experimental typography and motion graphics to advanced app design and senior thesis projects.
Woodbury’s strategic location provides a distinct competitive edge. Students benefit from exclusive internship opportunities at world-renowned entertainment, marketing, and interaction design studios. These high-impact industry connections allow the vast majority of graduates to launch their professional careers
within months of finishing their degree.
Furthermore, the program is a powerhouse for student achievement; Woodbury designers consistently sweep national and international awards in categories such as environmental graphics, identity design, and package design. By focusing on Professional Practice and high-level portfolio presentation, the Experience Design program ensures that every student graduates not just as a designer, but as a strategic leader in the field. woodbury.edu
What do you call an awards competition held amid a truly severe winter, a prolonged and unexpected war, and a moment of economic and technological uncertainty? We call it an surprising success. The 26th American Digital Design Awards™ drew a near record number of entries, resulting in an exceptionally selective showcase of winners. Formerly known as the “web design awards,” this competition continues to broaden and evolve — reflecting the expanding power of design to shape online and interactive experiences, as well as integrated media campaigns. Think social media, email marketing, digital ads and publications, interface and interactive design, video and animation, and more. Winners are displayed in alphabetical order by the Design Firm or Organization primarily responsible for the design.
Design Firm: 5 by 5 Design Client: Minnesota Board of Cosmetology Winning Entry: Minnesota Board of Cosmetology Social Media Designer: Wendy Ruyle Writer: Diana Lillicrap Other Creative Credits: Project Manager: Diana Lillicrap Social Media Strategist: Lisa Skelton Category: Social Media
Design Firm: A Great Idea Client: Carolina Federation Winning Entry: Carolina Federation Primary Website Design Creative Director: Shane Lukas Writer: J Martel Other Creative Credits: Junior Developer: Octavious Allen QA/Project Manager: Yara-Nee Dennis Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: A Great Idea Client: Planned Parenthood Empire State Acts Winning Entry: Planned Parenthood Empire State Acts Social Media Creative Director: Shane Lukas Designer: J Martel Category: Social Media
Winning Entry: Medecision Website Design Other Creative
Head of Creative: Claudia Mark Senior Designer: Jo Rooney Designer: Jiani Xiao Head of Strategy: Vincent Roffers Strategy Director: Jake Aronson Strategist: Amanda Cao Clients Services Director: Katie DiBella Head of Client Services: Emily Korn Head of Digital: John Kester Developer: Doug Allen (Advance Creative) Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: A Great Idea Client: Queens (NY) Chamber of Commerce Winning Entry: Dining Out in District 6 Landing Page Website Design Creative Director: Shane Lukas Other Creative Credits: Junior Developer: Samuel Jara QA/Project Manager: Yara-Nee Dennis Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Adler Branding & Marketing Client: Post Real Estate Group Winning Entry: Post Real Estate Group Website Creative Director: Stan Adler Art Director: Adrienne Metzinger Designer: Chris Manna Writer: Betty Hinchman Other Creative Credits: Account Director: Tracie Dellinger Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Agenda Client: Medecision
Credits:
Design Firm: Avila Creative Client: RSM Winning Entry: RSM 2025 Impact Report: Impact Beyond Measure Creative Director: John Avila Art Director: John Avila, Paul Maeda Designer: Paul Maeda Writer: RSM Team Other Creative Credits: Programmer: Matt Stone Project Manager: Lisa Jastram Category: Websites/Microsites
Firm: Avila Creative Client: Vertero Winning Entry: Vertero Website Design Creative Director: John Avila Designer: Meighan Depke Writer: Charles Kouri Other Creative Credits: Programmer: Michael Verzani Strategy: Geoffrey Mogilner, Kelly Hotz Illustrator: Veronica Falconieri Hays Category: Websites/Microsites
Clients: Jennifer Pilch, Michele Piernick Category: Websites/Microsites
Design
Design School: Ball State University | OneCreative Winning Entry: OneCreative Mentorship 2026 Pairings Posts Creative Director: Shantanu Suman Art Director: Stan Stuckey Designer: Samantha Jewitt, Alyssa Vena, Mallory Tucker Category: Student Work
Design Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: 2025 Integrated FIFA Customed Cash Rewards Landing Page Creative Director: Ken Tattersall Art Director: Jason Pennington Other Creative Credits: Account Supervisor: Karen Sterkenburg Senior Product Owner: Patty Sinkus Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Stacy Stigelman Executive Director: Charissa Messer
Design Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: Art and Your Estate Plan Social Post Creative Director: Ken Berl Art Director: Kara Schemmel Designer: Dan Hutchison Other Creative Credits: Account Supervisor: Stacy Carcaci Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Debbie Warburton Executive Director: Charissa Messer Client: Tim Brant Category: Social Media
Design Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: Digital Banking Landing Page Creative Director: Ken Tattersall Art Director: Jason Pennington Other Creative Credits: Account Supervisor: Mike Discavage Senior Product Owner: Patty Sinkus Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Stacy Stigelman Executive Director: Charissa Messer Client: Jennifer Pruett Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: Discover New Possibilities Digital Ads Creative Director: Ken Berl Art Director: Kara Schemmel Designer: Kelvin Valencia Other Creative Credits: Account Director: Mary Becker Group Account Director: Laura Keehan Executive Director: Charissa Messer Client: Ashley Kubiniec Category: Digital Ads/Banners
Design Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: Financial Literacy Simulator Video Creative Director: Ken Tattersall Art Director: Kieron Sebastian Writer: Mike Raye Other Creative Credits: Account Director: Patty Heck Senior Product Owner: Deanna Czojor Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Debbie Warburton Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Stacy Stigelman Executive Director: Charissa Messer Clients: Amanda Voell, Mina Pilar, Shannah Stephens Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: Get Ready to Score Customized Cash Rewards Offer ATM Creative Director: Steve Strohm Other Creative Credits: Art Buying Lead: Kristen Kramedas Account Director: Carla Dauphin Account Director: Kelley Baker Segment& Channel Strategy: Jim Clark Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Stacy Stigelman Executive Director: Charissa Messer Clients: Danny Urquia, Cindy Thomas, Sandra Descalzi Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: Intelligent Payables Video Creative Director: Steve Strohm Art Director: Kieron Sebastian Other Creative Credits: Senior Art Buyer: Elise Daher Account Supervisor: Deanna Czojor Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Debbie Warburton Executive Director: Charissa Messer Client: Kyle Jordan Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: Preferred Rewards New York City Food Fest Email Creative Director: Steve Strohm Other Creative Credits: Art Buying Lead: Kristen Kramedas Email Developer Lead: Mark Lazur Account Director: Jen Murphy Senior Product Owner: Dianne Dalton Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Stacy Stigelman Executive Director: Charissa Messer Client: Jerica Johnson Category: Email Marketing
Design Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: Personalized Solutions for Managing Wealth Banner Ad Creative Director: Ken Berl Art Director: Kara Schemmel Designer: Will Jacomme Other Creative Credits: Senior Art Buyer: Elise Daher Account Supervisor: Stacy Carcaci Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Debbie Warburton Executive Director: Charissa Messer Client: Laurie Chomko Category: Digital Ads/Banners
Design Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: Small Business Happy New Year Email Creative Director: Steve Strohm Other Creative Credits: Email Developer Lead: Mark Lazur Account Director: Deena Dimmer Senior Product Owner: Dianne Dalton Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Stacy Stigelman Executive Director: Charissa Messer Client: Lauren Van Soest Category: Email Marketing
Firm: Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Winning Entry: Zelle Special Moments ATM Creative Director: Steve Strohm, Ken Tattersall Other Creative Credits: Art Buying Lead: Kristen Kramedas Account Director: Kelley Baker Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Stacy Stigelman Executive Director: Charissa Messer Clients: Abby Rosenthal, Bridget Smith, Sandra Descalzi Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Bank of America, Enterprise Creative Solutions Client: Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 Winning Entry: Proud to
USA Social Post Creative Director: Ken Berl Art Director: Dan Hutchison
Heather Slawecki Other Creative Credits: Account Director: Carla Dauphin Segment & Channel Strategy: Jim Clark Group Account Director & Digital Strategy: Debbie Warburton Group Account Director: Laura Keehan Executive Director: Charissa Messer Clients: Suzanne Berry, Cindy Thomas Category: Social Media
Design
Design Firm:
Support
Writer:
Design Firm: Centermost Marketing Client: Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County Winning Entry: CCE Sullivan 2025 Annual Report Creative Director: Lindsay Ott Wilcox, Aaron Denman Art Director: Lindsay Ott Wilcox Designer: Lindsay Ott Wilcox Writer: Lindsay Ott Wilcox Category: Digital Pubs/eBooks/eNewsletters
Design Firm: Claros Technologies Creative Winning Entry: Claros Technologies Websign Design Creative Director: Kari Finkler Other Creative Credits: Motion Graphics & Video: Roland Le Breton Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Commence Studio Client: Sorella Apothecary Winning Entry: Sorella Apothecary Unified eCommerce Experience Creative Director: Kylie Souza Art Director: Matt McIver Designer: Kylie Souza Other Creative Credits: Video/Photo: STELO Creative Category: eCommerce
Design Firm: ConceptShell Art and Design Studio Client: Culture Generation Winning Entry: Culture Generation Website Design Creative Director: Shayla Hufana Designer: Shayla Hufana Other Creative Credits: UX Designer: Kathryn Harper Web Developer: Danny Lewandowski Founder/Story Content/Author: Christina Arokiasamy Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Barnett Design, Inc. Client: Family Promise of Bergen Winning Entry: Family Promise of Bergen Year End Appeal Creative Director: Debbie Barnett Sagurton Art Director: Jeff Ramos Designer: Tara Maratea, Valerie Haymes Writer: Dimitri Ehrlich Category: Social Media
BARNETT | DESIGN BERGEN FAMILY PROMISE YEAR END APPEAL
Bergen Family Promise is a nonprofit that helps working homeless families regain stability and become self-sufficient. Many live in cars, on friends’ couches, or in temporary hotels—often unnoticed, especially in affluent Bergen County, NJ. As funding for other agencies declines, demand for their services is rising. They partnered with Barnett again to create a standout digital and print campaign. This approach led Barnett to create the theme: A nice couch, car, or hotel isn’t a home. But your kindness can be the key.
To stand out from the digital noise, Barnett took a fresh approach to visuals with warm, vibrant illustrations paired with a powerful,
on point message and a clear call to action: “This holiday more working families in Bergen County are living like this. The need is urgent, The solution is simple. Please give as generously as you can.”
The impact was significant with donor response surpassing goals! Says Debbie Barnett, Studio Founder: “It is a great honor for the Barnett Team to have such a long-standing relationship with Bergen Family Promise. It is tremendously inspiring to collaborate with them on these meaningful projects.”
Design Firm: Cuticone Design LLC Client: Cloudgoose Biology Science & Technology Co., Ltd. Winning Entry: Cleanote Nasal Spray Digital Branding Assets Creative Director: Joe Cuticone Other Creative Credits: Director of Strategy: Sarah Remy Category: Digital Branding Assets
Client:
Design Firm: Datature Winning Entry: Datature Exhibition Display for Healthcare AI Designer: Ifah Pantitanonta Other Creative Credits: Special Note: Display system by Ifah Pantitanonta as part of Datature’s enterprise marketing and product communication efforts Category: Displays/Exhibits/Kiosks
Design Firm: Decker Design, Inc. Client: KKL LLP Winning Entry: KKL Law Firm Website Creative Director: Lynda Decker Art Director: Ryan Breeser Designer: Ryan Breeser Other Creative Credits: Photography: John Madere Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Dayna Son
Parsons School of Design Winning Entry: Word Piano Interactive Musical Website Designer: Dayna Son Category: Websites/Microsites
Building a Modern Litigation Brand
KKL Website and Brand Refresh by Decker Design
KKL had built a powerful reputation in white-collar enforcement, anchored by its partners’ senior SDNY experience. But that reputation masked the full breadth of the firm’s capabilities in civil litigation and internal investigations. Its former website felt dated and incomplete, underselling the sophistication of the practice, the strength of the team, and the firm’s trial credibility.
Decker Design repositioned KKL as a modern, elite litigation boutique. We reshaped the brand narrative, restructured the site architecture, and created a more refined visual identity to better reflect the firm’s stature and ambitions. New messaging highlighted KKL’s dual strengths in enforcement and high-stakes civil matters, while
updated photography, sharper content, and a stronger careers section increased visibility into the firm’s culture, talent, and momentum. The result is a website that projects confidence, clarity, and authority. It gives referral sources and prospective clients a more complete understanding of KKL’s capabilities, supports the firm’s expansion into civil litigation, strengthens recruiting, and positions KKL as a sophisticated next-generation boutique. The new site does not simply look better. It tells a more powerful and more strategic story about who KKL is becoming.
At AWS re:Invent attention lasts seconds. Equinix’s campaign leveraged our bold palette, grid illustration and a minimal headline, “AWS, closer. Equinix delivers it.” to make proximity and low-latency infrastructure instantly legible. Built for 15-second digital rotations and repeated sightings across the Las Vegas Strip, the creative prioritized recognition over explanation. A high-impact mix of digital spectaculars, venue marquees, transportation shelters, wrapped EVs, and the booth experience surrounded attendees between hotels, sessions, and nightlife, turning infrastructure
from invisible to ever-present, and clearly communicating that AWS runs better when Equinix brings it closer.
Creative Director: Craig TerBlanche. Art Director: Jessica Panian. Proofreader: Precious Oluwasanya Paid Media: Nick Volkart Brand and Content Services: Roni Lagin
EQUINIX | SOCIAL ANIMATION AND ASSETS
Equinix is the world’s digital infrastructure company®, shortening the path to boundless connectivity to enable the innovations that enrich our work, life and planet. To support our globally diverse set of employees and the holidays they cherish, we leaned on illustration and a clean, looping animation style in a way that feels engaging without overwhelming. The looping motion helped each moment linger just long enough to be noticed, making the content easy to absorb as people scrolled. We were intentional with brand colors and visual treatment, pulling inspiration from the holiday while making sure everything stayed aligned with our guidelines, so it felt festive yet unmistakably us.
Throughout the work, we focused on crafting details that were witty and bespoke rather than generic. Small visual moments, pacing and tone were designed to add personality and warmth, helping the animations feel celebratory and thoughtfully considered. The result is a set of social assets that feel playful and timely, but also polished, bringing together storytelling, motion and brand in a way that was both approachable and distinctly Equinix.
Creative Director: Roni Lagin. Designer: Mo Moussa. Director Global Social Media: Michael Pranikoff. Social Media Specialist: Jordan Stump.
Design Firm: Fayetteville State University Winning Entry: FSU Make Way Digital Advertising Other Creative Credits: Director for Marketing and Creative Services: Lorrent Smith Designer: Dionne Lugue Associate Vice Chancellor for Strategic Communications: Charles McKinnon Photography: Ezekiel Best Category: Digital Ads/Banners
Design Firm: Equinix Winning Entry: Equinix Social Animations and Assets Creative Director: Roni Lagin Designer: Mo Moussa Other Creative Credits: Director Global Social Media: Michael Pranikoff Social Media Specialist: Jordan Stump Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Evie Grey Studio and Barnstormer Media Winning Entry: AIGA Connecticut 2026 Community Vision Video Creative Director: Yvonne Kalbfell Other Creative Credits: Executive Creative Director and Editor: Michael Palermo Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Delicate Matter LLC Client: Angelino’s Coffee Winning Entry: Coffee Culture Education Series for Angelino’s Coffee Designer: Yana Grishchuk Category: Social Media
Design Firm: Equinix Winning Entry: Equinix Digital Corridor Campaign and Design System Creative Director: Nikki Radov Art Director: Roni Lagin Designer: Vivian Doute Writer: Robert Mirr, Yevgeniy Sverdlik, Priyanka Kulkarni Other Creative Credits: Animator: Mo Moussa Proofreader: Precious Oluwasanya Paid Media: Nick Volkart, Ryan Osman, Aditi Shukla Social Media: Michael
Wendell Davis Senior Director, Brand and Content Services: Craig
and
Design Firm: factor 110 Winning Entry: Digital Ads Creative Director: Brian Ferrell Designer: Keon Nguyen Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: Freaner Creative Winning Entry: Freaner Creative 40 Years Social Media Poster Creative Director: Ariel Freaner Art Director: Ariel Freaner Designer: Ariel Freaner Category: Social Media
Design Firm: Freaner Creative Client: Cancer Resource Center of the Desert Winning Entry: CRCD Website Creative Director: Ariel Freaner Art Director: Ariel Freaner Designer: Ariel Freaner Other Creative Credits: Programming, Website Design, UI and UX Development: Ariel Freaner Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Pranikoff,
TerBlanche VP, Brand
Demand Generation: Carrie Maynard Category: Digital Ads/Banners
EQUINIX | DIGITAL CORRIDOR CAMPAIGN
Equinix is the world’s digital infrastructure company®, shortening the path to boundless connectivity to enable the innovations that enrich our work, life and planet. To support our globally diverse set of employees and the holidays they cherish, we leaned on illustration and a clean, looping animation style in a way that feels engaging without overwhelming. The looping motion helped each moment linger just long enough to be noticed, making the content easy to absorb as people scrolled. We were intentional with brand colors and visual treatment, pulling inspiration from the holiday while making sure everything stayed aligned with our guidelines, so it felt festive yet unmistakably us.
Throughout the work, we focused on crafting details that were witty and bespoke rather than generic. Small visual moments, pacing and tone were designed to add personality and warmth, helping the animations feel celebratory and thoughtfully con-sidered. The result is a set of social assets that feel playful and timely, but also polished, bringing together storytelling, motion and brand in a way that was both approachable and distinctly Equinix.
Creative Director: Nikki Radov. Art Director: Roni Lagin. Designer: Vivian Doute Writers: Robert Mirr, Yevgeniy Sverdlik, Priyanka Kulkarni. Animator Mo Moussa. Proofreader: Precious Oluwasanya. Paid Media: Nick Volkart, Ryan Osman, Aditi Shukla. Social Media: Michael Pranikoff, Wendell Davis. Senior Director, Brand and Content Services: Craig TerBlanche. VP, Brand and Demand Generation: Carrie Maynard
Design Firm: Freaner Creative Client: Innercare Winning Entry: 2025 Social Media Campaign Creative Director: Ariel Freaner Art Director: Ariel Freaner Designer: Ariel Freaner Other Creative Credits: Social Media Strategist: Ariel Freaner Category: Social Media
Design Firm: Freaner Creative Client: Ralph’s Starbucks Winning Entry: Celebrating Ralph’s Starbucks Baristas - Jordan Creative Director: Ariel Freaner Art Director: Ariel Freaner Designer: Ariel Freaner Other Creative Credits: Illustration and Digital Artistry: Ariel Freaner Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Freaner Creative Client: Tijuana Red Cross, Jorge Astiazaran Winning Entry: Beto Thank You Video Series and Campaign Creative Director: Ariel Freaner
Art Director: Ariel Freaner Designer: Ariel Freaner Other Creative Credits: Sound Design and Editing: Ariel Freaner Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Freaner Creative Client: Chicali, Palmira Leon Winning Entry: Chicali TV Show Social Media Posters Creative Director: Ariel Freaner Art Director: Ariel Freaner Designer: Ariel Freaner Category: Social Media
Design Firm: Freaner Creative Client: City of Tijuana, Jorge Astiazaran Winning Entry: Mexico en la Sangre Digital Campaign Creative Director: Ariel Freaner Art Director: Ariel Freaner Designer: Ariel Freaner Other Creative Credits: Illustration and Digital Artistry: Ariel Freaner Category: Digital Ads/Banners
Design Firm: Freaner Creative Client: City of Tijuana, Jorge Astiazaran Winning Entry: Tijuana - San Diego Manufacturing Hub Video Creative Director: Ariel Freaner Art Director: Ariel Freaner Designer: Ariel Freaner Other Creative Credits: Sound Design and Editing: Ariel Freaner Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Freaner Creative Client: East Otay Mesa Recycling & Landfill Winning Entry: East Otay Mesa Recycling & Landfill Microsite Creative Director: Ariel Freaner Art Director: Ariel Freaner Designer: Ariel Freaner Other Creative Credits: Programming, Website Design, UI and UX Development: Ariel Freaner Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Furever.AI Winning Entry: Furever.AI All-In-One Pre-Triage Pet Health Platform Other Creative Credits: Design Lead: Ding Li Designers: Siqi Wu, Yi Cao, Yichia Lu Category: UX/UI/Interactive Design
Design Firm: Future Standard and argodesign Winning Entry: Future Standard Website Creative Director: Lauren Dougherty Art Director: Eric Scott, Natasha Chandani Other Creative Credits: Contributors: Elizabeth Bathon, Lauren Hirai, Amy Chau Stephen Tisdalle, My-Ha Moon, Chris Pacetti, Mehera O’Brien, Alioune Thiam, Kyle Contino, Akshay Iyer, Matthew Dea, Vishal Gandhi Category: Websites/ Microsites
Design Firm: Future Standard and Small Crowd Winning Entry: Future Standard Social Media Creative Director: Lauren Dougherty Art Director: Eric Scott, Natasha Chandani Designer: Gina Kernan, Louisa Strohm, Nicholas Yates Category: Social Media
Design Firm: GAF Winning Entry: GAF About Us National Plant Map Art Director: Erin DeGrand Designer: Monica Yang Other Creative Credits: User Designer: Monica Yang Interactive Design and Build: Alexis Delucia Project Manager: Delia Kenny Category: Apps/Widgets
Commercial Contact Us Interactive Map Art Director: Erin DeGrand Designer: Alexis Delucia Other Creative Credits: Interactive Design and Build: Alexis Delucia Category: Apps/Widgets
GAF
GAF Commercial Data Centers Landing Page Art Director: Emiliya Mizrahi Designer: Richard Kwon Writer: Don Kilcoyne Other Creative Credits: Website Designer: Hareem Ahmed UX Designer: Emiliya Mizrahi Project Manager: Lawrence Foppiano Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: GAF Winning Entry: GAF
Design Firm:
Winning Entry:
Design Firm: GAF Winning Entry: GAF Storm Restoration Hub Art Director: Monica Yang Designer: David Shin Writer: Ant Galasso Other Creative Credits: Website Designer: Matt Neilan UX Design: Monica Yang. Project Manager: Delia Kenny Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: GAF Winning Entry: The History of GAF Social Media Post Art Director: Kristen Kruczowy, Kristi Reindel Writer: Kristen Kruczowy Other Creative Credits: Creative Support: Brandon Mead, Flow Creative Category: Social Media
Design Firm: HB Design Client: Platinum Performance Winning Entry: Platinum Colic Coverage Social Media Posts Designer: Heather Barbis Category: Social Media
Design Firm: HB Design Client: SYV Wealth Advisors Winning Entry: SYV Wealth Advisors Social Media Posts Designer: Heather Barbis Category: Social Media
Firm: IM Graphics Inc. Client: The Volen Center Winning Entry: The Volen Center Community Newsletter Art Director: Randy Braunstein Designer: Marie LaFauci Category: Digital Pubs/eBooks/eNewsletters
Firm: inkbyte Client: Utility Partners of America Winning Entry: Sustainability Through Large-Scale Meter Recycling Infographic Creative Director: Yvonne Kalbfell Other Creative Credits: Project Manager: Sarah Morgan Category: Data Visualization/Infographics
Design
Design
Design Firm: inkbyte Client: Utility Partners of America Winning Entry: Winter-Ready AMI Deployments Social Media Assets Creative Director: Yvonne Kalbfell Writer: Yvonne Kalbfell Other Creative Credits: Project Manager: Sarah Morgan Executive Creative Director: Duke Dellarocco Category: Social Media
Design Firm: International Child Art Foundation Winning Entry: ChildArt Magazine: Corporate Responsibility and Social Change Creative Director: Jia Yu Designer: Shuchen Wang, Qianzi Luo Writer: Marie-Delphine Alberts, Gina Golden Other Creative Credits: Publisher & Editor: Ashfaq Ishaq, Ph.D. Category: Digital Pubs/ eBooks/eNewsletters
Firm: Invok Brands Client: Three Farmers Foods Winning Entry: Three Farmers Foods Website Creative Director: Tim McLaughlin Designer: Tim McLaughlin Writer: Sebastian Maynard Category: Websites/Microsites
Design
Design Firm: Irene Kadir Winning Entry: Savey: Food Waste App In Grocery Store Designer: Irene Kadir Category: Apps/Widgets
Design Firm: Jessica Zambo LLC Winning Entry: That’s Not How Redaction Works Data Visualization Designer: Jessica Zambo Category: Data Visualization/Infographics
Design Firm: JMS Marketing Inc. Client: AMOA/Amusement and Music Operators
Association Winning Entry: AMOA Website Design Creative Director: Jean Marie
Saidler Art Director: Brad Norlin Designer: Brad Norlin Writer: Jean Marie Saidler Other Creative Credits: Programmer: Mithun Kappagantula Category: Websites/ Microsites
Design Firm: Kari Finkler Design Client: Darcy Solutions Winning Entry: Darcy Solutions Website Design Creative Director: Kari Finkler Other Creative
Developers: Br8kthru Consulting Content Creation:
Category: Websites/Microsites
Credits:
Robert Ed, Courtney Mehus
Design School: Kennesaw State University Winning Entry: Buff & Bloom’s Body Scrub Social Media Creative Director: Rory Gibson Art Director: Rory Gibson Designer: Rory Gibson Writer: Rory Gibson Other Creative Credits: Instructor: Professor Kristine Kim Category: Student Work
Design School: Kennesaw State University Winning Entry: Gossa Loose Leaf Tea Social Media Creative Director: Emily Brown Art Director: Emily Brown Designer: Emily Brown Writer: Emily Brown Other Creative Credits: Instructor: Professor Kristine Kim Category: Student Work
KRAUS MARKETING | CRH WEBSITE REDESIGN
As the leading provider of building materials and an S&P 500 company, CRH needed a digital experience that reflected its scale, sharpened its U.S. market presence, and communicated more clearly with a growing investor audience. Kraus Marketing partnered with CRH to create a website that feels more modern, accessible, and aligned with the company’s ambition.
The redesign clarified the brand experience from the ground up. Guided by a comprehensive audit, Kraus Marketing streamlined the site architecture, refined the visual system, and introduced clearer messaging, creating a more cohesive user experience
and giving CRH greater flexibility as its content and digital needs continue to evolve. A central focus was investor relations. The redesigned IR experience gives investors more intuitive access to key information within a platform built to serve investor needs.
The result is a cohesive, high-performing website that strengthens CRH’s credibility in the U.S. market and sets a stronger foundation for consistent brand expression across touchpoints.
Firm: Kraus Marketing Client: CRH Winning Entry: CRH Website Design Creative Director: Nick Kraus Art Director: Emma O’Keefe Designer: Shannon McGuigan, Alyssa DeFilippis Writer: Megan Brockman Other Creative Credits: Account Manager: Nick Kraus Project Managers: Samm Eason, Lizzy Lievendag Web Developer: Nicholas Westcott Category: Websites/Microsites
Design School: Kennesaw State University Winning Entry: Kurl Kissed Leave-in Conditioning Cream Branding Creative Director: Brooke Wendorf Art Director: Brooke Wendorf Designer: Brooke Wendorf Writer: Brooke Wendorf Other Creative Credits: Instructor: Professor Kristine Kim Category: Student Work
Design
Design Firm: Leibowitz Client: Ares Wealth Management Solutions Winning Entry: Ares Wealth Management Solutions Email Template System Creative Director: Ivan Caro Art Director: Mari Al-Midhadi Designer: Madeline Coyte, Yinan Chen, Fernanda Kligerman Writer: Ally Jago Other Creative Credits: Developers: Jon-Michael Cubano, Olena Radiuk, John Staton Project Manager: Kelly Orosz Category: Email Marketing
Design Firm: Leibowitz Client: Dynasty Financial Partners Winning Entry: OpenArc Corporate Advisory Website Design Creative Director: Ivan Caro Art Director: Mari Al-Midhadi Designer: Yinan Chen Writer: Kevin Windorf Other Creative Credits: Developer: Jon-Michael Cubano Project Manager: Kelly Orosz Category: Websites/ Microsites
Design Firm: Leibowitz Client: Lexington Partners Winning Entry: Lexington Partners Holiday Card Creative Director: Ivan Caro Art Director: Mari Al-Midhadi Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Leibowitz Client: SBG Funding Winning Entry: SBG Funding Email Template System Creative Director: Ivan Caro Designer: Mari Al-Midhadi Category: Email Marketing
Design Firm: Lentini Design & Marketing, Inc. Client: Ivan’s Cooking by Taylor Winning Entry: Ivan’s Cooking by Taylor Website Design & Build Creative Director: Hilary Lentini Designer: Leanna Hanson, Hilary Lentini Other Creative Credits: Programmer: Keith Hollingshead Programmer: Aria Lentini Programmer: Hilary Lentini Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Lentini Design & Marketing, Inc. Client: Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission Winning Entry: Business Connect Supplier Resources Website Design & Build Creative Director: Hilary Lentini Designer: Leanna Hanson, Hilary Lentini Other Creative Credits: Programmer: Keith Hollingshead Programmer: Aria Lentini Programmer: Hilary Lentini Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Leviton Network Solutions Winning Entry: AI Powered By Human Intelligence Digital Banner Ads and Social Media Posts Other Creative Credits: Senior Designer: Kristen Roe Writer: Jay Tucker Director of Global Marketing: Jeff Lechtanski Global MarCom Manager: Jenni Chambers Marketing Manager: Nate Hull Marketing Manager: Ann Squeglia Sr. Global Web Designer: Kim MacDonald Photographer: Jim Tillman Model: Shea Robinson Category: Digital Ads/Banners
Design Firm: Leviton Network Solutions Winning Entry: Hyper Speed, Hyper Scale, Hyper Dense Digital Banner Ads and Social Media Posts Other Creative Credits: Senior Designer: Kristen Roe Writer: Jay Tucker Director of Global Marketing: Jeff Lechtanski Global MarCom Manager: Jenni Chambers Marketing Manager: Nate Hull Marketing Manager: Ann Squeglia Sr. Global Web Designer: Kim MacDonald Category: Digital Ads/Banners
Design Firm: Marc Blaustein Design Winning Entry: This Machine Kills Social Media Other Creative Credits: Creative Director & Designer: Marc Blaustein Category: Social Media
Design Firm: Massey Emergency Management Winning Entry: Massey Social Media Campaign 2025-26 Designer: James Johnson Category: Social Media
Design Firm: Mighty Citizen Client: Beacon Reproductive Health Winning Entry: Beacon Reproductive Health Rebrand Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: Mighty Citizen Client: Biophysical Society Winning Entry: Marketing Campaign Strategy & Campaign Plan Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: Mighty Citizen Client: National Park Trust Winning Entry: ParkPassport App Awareness and Download Campaign Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: MIKEADV CORP Client: GNW Law Offices of Graham N. Wright Winning Entry: GMW Law Offices of Graham N. Wright Website Design and Brand Renewal Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: MJH Life Sciences Client: AJMC Winning Entry: AJMC Audience Development Campaign Creative Director: Josh Hermes Art Director: Erin Boytis Category: Digital Ads/Banners
Design Firm: MJH Life Sciences Client: Dermatology Times Winning Entry: Dermatology Times NPPA Connect Branding Art Director: Rachel Keatley Designer: Rachel Keatley Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: MJH Life Sciences Client: Pharmaceutical Technology Europe Winning Entry: Pharmaceutical Technology Europe September/October 2025 Volume 37 Creative Director: Kristen Morabito, MPH Designer: Kristen Morabito Category: Digital Pubs/eBooks/eNewsletters
Firm: MJH Life Sciences Client: The Educated Patient Winning Entry: The Educated Patient Podcast Creative Director: Ashley Flick Other Creative Credits: Logo Intro Animator: Ray Pelesko AI Integration: AI played a critical role in bringing this concept to life. Tools used include ChatGPT, ElevenLabs, Nano Banana, Suno, and Kling 2.6 to develop the script, voice, visuals, and motion elements into a cohesive narrative. Then each component was carefully refined through human oversight to ensure authenticity and purpose. Category: AI Integration
Creative Credits: CG Artist/Animators: Tim Vernile, Claire Cotton
Design
Design Firm: Notion Client: Heartland Dental Winning Entry: Heartland Dental Recruitment Video: Accelerate. Elevate. Enjoy. Creative Director: Justin Grillo Other Creative Credits: Video: Ryan Smith Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Orchard Digital Marketing Client: LifeSpire of Virginia Winning Entry: LifeSpire Consolidated Website Creative Director: Nikki Mayhew, Steve Stenken Designer: David Sweitzer Writer: Steve Stenken Other Creative Credits: Senior Director, Web Experience: Heather Volpenheim Developer: Rachel Berning Web Experience: Katie Preston Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Orchard Digital Marketing Client: Westminster Senior Living Winning Entry: Westminster Senior Living Website Creative Director: Nikki Mayhew, Steve Stenken Designer: David Sweitzer Writer: Steve Stenken Other Creative Credits: Senior Director, Web Experience: Heather Volpenheim Developer: Rachel Berning Web Experience: Katie Preston Category: Websites/Microsites
Firm: People
Client: Food Detectives, a program of The Beecher’s Foundation Winning Entry: Food Detectives Nutrition Education Website Creative Director: Shannon Palmer Art Director: Amy Wilson Designer: Maddy Porter Writer: Lara Green Other Creative Credits: Developer: Andrew Tarcon Category: Websites/Microsites
Design
People
Design Firm: Pixel Jam Digital Client: Spray Drone Network Winning Entry: Interactive Map and Custom Website for Spray Drone Network Designer: Erica Martin Other Creative Credits: Brand Designer: Sweet Briar Developer: Zeshan Aman Category: UX/UI/Interactive Design
Design Firm: PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies Winning Entry: PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2025 Animated Welcome Ads Creative Director: Teresa Gutsick Designer: Corbin Saville Other Creative Credits: Director, Trade Show Marketing: Tina Warren Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: recreative + co. Client: The Wilder Winning Entry: The Wilder Web Design & Development Creative Director: Meg Raiano Designer: Meg Raiano Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Rhea Shukla Winning Entry: Designing Mars: Where Data Becomes Story Designer: Rhea Shukla Category: Data Visualization/Infographics
Design Firm: Roskelly, Inc. Client: Burrillville Victory Diner Winning Entry: Burrillville Victory Diner Fish Fridays Creative Director: Thomas Roskelly Category: Digital Ads/Banners
Design Firm: Roskelly, Inc. Client: Innovative Machine, Inc. Winning Entry: Innovative Machine Display Creative Director: Thomas Roskelly Category: Displays/ Exhibits/Kiosks
Design Firm: Roskelly, Inc. Client: ITRI Ristorante Winning Entry: ITRI Ristorante Facebook Ads Creative Director: Thomas Roskelly Category: Digital Ads/Banners
Design Firm: Roskelly, Inc. Client: Native Fish Gear Winning Entry: Native Fish Gear Digital Brand Assets Creative Director: Thomas Roskelly Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: Roskelly, Inc. Client: The Preservation Society of Newport County Winning Entry: Rich Programs E-Blast Creative Director: Thomas Roskelly Category: Email Marketing
Design Firm: Roskelly, Inc. Client: Tower 235 Steakhouse & Lounge Winning Entry: Tower 235 Digital Branding Assets Creative Director: Thomas Roskelly Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: Rubrik Winning Entry: Data Security Decoded: Podcast Web Experience Creative Director: Benjamin Long Art Director: Jayesh Patil Designer: Jayesh Patil Writer: Ivy Chow, Caleb Tolin Other Creative Credits: Contributors: Gunakar Goswami, Trinethra Reddy Category: Websites/Microsites
Other Creative Credits: Creative Director/Art Director/Designer: Shannon Charvat, Camerasmatic Photo and Design LLC Category: Digital Pubs/eBooks/ eNewsletters
Design Firm: Shannon Charvat - Camerasmatic Photo and Design LLC Client: Mirage, The Conceptual Art Magazine (Volume 3, Issue 1) Winning Entry: Veil Series
Portraits
Design School: Shreya Talegaonkar Client: Rochester Institute of Technology Winning Entry: Dissonance Immersive Multimedia Installation Designer: Shreya Talegaonkar Category: Student Work
Design Firm: Siplast Winning Entry: Siplast Detail Drawings Customization Art Director: Erin DeGrand Designer: Daria Vander May Other Creative Credits: Project Manager: Lawrence Foppiano UX Content Strategist: Toni Can Website Designer: Samantha Hildebrandt Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Siplast Winning Entry: Siplast.com Homepage Design Art Director: Erin DeGrand Other Creative Credits: UX Content Strategist: Toni Can Graphics Designer: Daria Vander May Website Designer: Samantha Hildebrandt Writer: Dawn Weissman Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: So Drama! Entertainment Client: Ministry of Defence, Singapore Winning Entry: Exercise Wallaby 2025 Infographics Art Director: Bernard Chia Designer: Bryan Loo, Lawrence Chiam, Jason Goh Category: Data Visualization/Infographics
Design Firm: So Drama! Entertainment Client: Ministry of Defence, Singapore Winning Entry: National Day Parade 2025 Infographics Series Art Director: Bernard Chia Designer: Bryan Loo, Lawrence Chiam, Jason Goh Category: Data Visualization/Infographics
Design Firm: So Drama! Entertainment Client: Ministry of Defence, Singapore Winning Entry: PIONEER: Air-Amazing Adventures With Dad Social Media Producer & Editor: Lee Kah Kit Cameraman: Deepan Nicholas Assistant Producer: Darren Kho Category: Digital Pubs/eBooks/eNewsletters
Design Firm: So Drama! Entertainment Client: Ministry of Defence, Singapore Winning Entry: PIONEER: In the Navy...We Don’t Say¶ Video Other Creative Credits: Producer & Editor: Nicole Yong Cameraman: Deepan Nicholas Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: So Drama! Entertainment Client: Ministry of Defence, Singapore Winning Entry: PIONEER: What’s My Gear? (SAF & USMC) Social Media Other Creative Credits: Producer: Thrina Tham Footage: Zakee Teo, Nicole Yong, Alvin Fung Category: Social Media
Design Firm: So Drama! Entertainment Client: Ministry of Defence, Singapore Winning Entry: Sisters In Arms Editorial Feature Story: Nicole Yong Photographer: Chai Sian Liang Category: Digital Pubs/eBooks/eNewsletters
Design Firm: So Drama! Entertainment Client: Ministry of Defence, Singapore Winning Entry: Sustainability Efforts in the Singapore Armed Forces Infographics Art Director: Bernard Chia Designer: Bryan Loo Category: Data Visualization/ Infographics
Design Firm: Social Design House Client: Asymmetric Research Winning Entry: Asymmetric Research Digital Branding Assets Creative Director: Ben Visser Other Creative Credits: Senior Brand Designer: Sandi Suter Developer: Amanda Mangiarelli Project & Operations Lead: Chelsea Pagliuca Account & Strategy Lead: Adam Philips Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: Social Design House Client: Matrix Property Group Winning Entry: Matrix Consulting Group Website Design Creative Director: Ben Visser Other Creative Credits: Senior UI/UX Designer: McKenna Brandon Developer: Taylor Foxx Project & Operations Lead: Chelsea Pagliuca Account & Strategy Lead: Adam Phillips Senior Brand Designer: Sandi Suter Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Social Design House Client: Third & Urban Winning Entry: Sorella Apartments Digital Branding Assets Creative Director: Ben Visser Other Creative Credits: Senior Brand Designer: Sandi Suter Project & Operations Lead: Chelsea Pagliuca Account & Strategy Lead: Adam Philips Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: Sophie Wedd Design Client: Treadlight Farm Winning Entry: Treadlight Farm E-Commerce Website Other Creative Credits: Creative Director & Designer: Sophie Wedd Developer: Brandon Gamm Category: eCommerce
Design Firm: Spohn Design Client: Dragonfly Shimoda Winning Entry: Dragonfly Shimoda Social Media Creative Director: Ron Spohn Designer: Ron Spohn Writer: Anna Lamson Category: Social Media
Design Firm: Erik Porter / Spohn Design Client: Put-in-Bay Winery Winning Entry: Put-in-Bay Winery Website Redesign Creative Director: Ron Spohn Designer: Ron Spohn Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Steers Studios Client: Maple Bank Farm Winning Entry: Maple Bank Farm Website Redesign Creative Director: Jeanne Steers Designer: Jeanne Steers Writer: Alex White Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: Street Level Studio Client: Canon Winning Entry: Move Forward with Canon 2.0 Banner Ads Category: Digital Ads/Banners
Design Firm: Street Level Studio Client: Water Quality Association (WQA) Winning Entry: Groundwater Professionals Email Campaign Category: Email Marketing
Design Firm: Support Unlimited, Inc. Client: Variety Machine Solutions Winning Entry: Variety Machine Solutions Website Designer: Bonnie Weinandt Other Creative Credits: Photographer: David Kurtovich Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: The Danberry Co. Winning Entry: Danberry Flow Program Microsite Creative Director: Maria Penler Designer: Monica Semenishin Other Creative Credits: Web Design: Maria Penler Client: Kevin Warren Category: Websites/ Microsites
Design Firm: The
Client: YCANARY Winning Entry: YCANARY Planning, Reporting, Workflow and Optimization Website Creative Director: Robert Shaw West
Art Director: Robert Shaw West Designer: Robert Shaw West Writer: Dwayne Fry
Design Firm: The Republik Client: Dilworth Coffee Winning Entry: A Hero’s Journey Dilworth Coffee Newsletters Creative Director: Robert Shaw West Art Director: Brad Magner Designer: Brad Magner Writer: Brad Magner Other Creative Credits: Chief Strategy Officer: Dwayne Fry Category:
Republik
THE REPUBLIK | YCANARY WEBSITE: INTELLIGENCE THAT MOVES
YCANARY.COM is a connected workspace for agencies that brings strategy, analytics, project management, and campaign execution into one system, with always-on AI working throughout. Instead of static plans, disconnected dashboards, and reactive workflow tools, YCanary continuously learns from your goals and performance data. It pressure-tests assumptions, surfaces blind spots, predicts bottlenecks, and helps teams adapt in real time.
Think of it as intelligence layered across your entire agency - not just reporting, not just automation - but clarity that strengthens every decision.Plan smarter. Act faster. Get better results.
Agencies don’t need more tools. They need fewer gaps between strategy, execution, and results. YCANARY.COM connects planning, reporting, workflow, and optimization in one place, with AI running quietly underneath. It helps you see what’s working, what’s drifting, and what needs attention before it affects performance. It doesn’t replace strategy or creativity. It reinforces them, with faster feedback, stronger rationale, and fewer surprises. That’s what we wanted for ourselves. So we helped build it.
Firm: The Republik Client: Dilworth Coffee Winning Entry: Dilworth Coffee E-Commerce Website Creative Director: Robert Shaw West Art Director: Matt Shapiro Designer: Matt Shapiro Writer: Dwayne Fry, Neil Hinson Other Creative Credits: Chief Strategy Officer: Dwayne Fry Associate Creative Director: Matt Shapiro Category: eCommerce
Design
Design Firm: The Republik Client: Village Dental Winning Entry: Village Dental Defy Your Fears To Unleash Your Superpower Social Media Creative Director: Robert Shaw West Art Director: Dallas West Designer: Dallas West, Matt Shapiro Writer: Dallas West Other Creative Credits: Chief Strategy Officer: Dwayne Fry Associate Creative Director: Matt Shapiro Category: Social Media
Design Firm: The Republik Client: Voltari Marine Electric Winning Entry: A Silent Scream Website Creative Director: Robert Shaw West Art Director: Matt Shapiro Designer: Matt Shapiro Writer: Scott Stripling Other Creative Credits: Illustrator: David Weiss Photographers: Shane Bartie, Andrea Berg, Papa1266, Peto Perola, Alex Stemmers Chief Strategy Officer: Dwayne Fry Associate Creative Director: Matt Shapiro Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: The Danberry Co. Winning Entry: The Danberry Co. Year In Review 2025 Creative Director: Maria Penler Designer: Monica Semenishin Other Creative Credits: Client: Kevin Warren Category: Digital Pubs/eBooks/eNewsletters
The
& Brown Companies Client:
Administators Winning Entry: ChoiceBuilder Landing Page and Microsite Creative Director: Rikki Nedelkow, Marketing Director Art Director: Homer Villegas, Studio Director Writer: Alex Strautman, Senior Copywriter Other Creative Credits: Digital Marketing Manager: Vidah Quirante Marketing Director: Kalup Alexander Sr. Interaction Designer: Vinh Thai, Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: The Word & Brown Companies Winning Entry: Multicultural Day Invitation Email Creative Director: Hugo Miramontes, Senior Graphic Designer Category: Email Marketing
Design Firm:
Word
CHOICE
Design Firm: The Word & Brown Companies Client: CHOICE Administators: CaliforniaChoice Winning Entry: 2025 Pet Insurance Campaign Email Creative Director: Homer Villegas, Studio Director Designer: Noe Villasenor, Digital Marketing Supervisor and Esteni Munguia, Senior Digital Marketing Specialist Writer: Alex Strautman, Senior Copywriter Other Creative Credits: Marketing Project Manager: Brandi Daiken Category: Email Marketing
Design Firm: The Word & Brown Companies Client: CHOICE Administrators Winning Entry: Broker Appreciation Event Microsite Creative Director: Rikki Nedelkow, Marketing Director and Jessica Haluck, Events Marketing Director Art Director: Homer Villegas, Studio Director Designer: Vidah Quirante, Digital Marketing Manager and Jarrell Welker, Sr. Front-End Developer Other Creative Credits: Senior Events Manager: Heather McDonald Category: Websites/Microsites
Firm: The Word & Brown Companies Client: CHOICE Administrators Winning Entry: MyCalChoice Immersive Quote Art Director: Kalup Alexander, Digital Marketing Director Designer: Vinh Thai, Senior Interaction Designer Writer: Vinh Thai, Senior Interaction Designer Category: UX/UI/Interactive Design
Design
Design Firm: The Word & Brown Companies Client: Word & Brown General Agency Winning Entry: Top Producer Event Teaser Video Creative Director: Missy Bynon, Marketing Director and Jessica Haluck, Events Marketing Director Designer: Hugo Miramontes, Senior Graphic Designer Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: The Word & Brown Companies Client: Word & Brown General Agency Winning Entry: Why Word & Brown Digital Brochure Designer: Hugo Miramontes, Senior Graphic Designer Writer: Missy Bynon, Marketing Director Category: Digital Pubs/eBooks/eNewsletters
Design Firm: The Word & Brown Companies Client: Word & Brown General Agency Winning Entry: Word & Brown 2025 Sales Celebration Campaign Creative Director: Missy Bynon, Marketing Director and Jessica Haluck, Marketing Events Director Art Director: Homer Villegas, Studio Director Writer: Alex Strautman, Senior Copywriter Other Creative Credits: Senior Events Manager: ToniMarie Munoz Digital Marketing Supervisor: Noe Villasenor Senior Marketing Specialist: Esteni Munguia Digital Marketing Manager: Vidah Quirante Category: Digital Branding Assets
Design Firm: The Word & Brown Companies Client: Word & Brown General Agency Winning Entry: Word & Brown Broker Success Microsite Creative Director: Missy Bynon, Marketing Director Designer: Hugo Miramontes, Senior Graphic Designer Writer: Alex Strautman, Senior Copywriter and Missy Bynon, Marketing Director Other Creative Credits: Marketing Project Manager: Heather Jung Category: Websites/Microsites
Design Firm: University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Winning Entry: What Is Immunotherapy? Motion Graphics Art Director: Elisa Cisneros Designer: Kellye Sanford Other Creative Credits: Motion Design: Stephanie Schaffler Director and Writer: Clayton Boldt Director, Social Media and Publications: Laura Nathan-Garner Writer and Producer: Lauren Lea Subject Matter Expert: Dr. Katy Rezvani Subject Matter Expert: Dr, Padmanee Sharma Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Washington & Jefferson College Winning Entry: DubJay Mascot Launch Social Media Campaign Creative Director: Forrest Conroy Designer: Bryanna Stahlman Writer: Bre Dickey Other Creative Credits: Larissa Usher Category: Social Media
Design Firm: Xiaojun Huang Client: Bowling Green State University, School of Art Winning Entry: BGSU Faculty Research Presentation Poster Creative Director: Xiaojun Huang Art Director: Xiaojun Huang Designer: Xiaojun Huang Category: Digital Branding Assets
UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI | 2025 YEAR IN REVIEW
The University of Cincinnati’s annual Year in Review video captures a defining year of growth, creativity, and momentum within our department. Through dynamic storytelling and vibrant visuals, the video highlights the milestones that shaped the past year and the people who made them possible.
From the transformation of a residence hall and record-breaking participation in our room decorating contest to the grand opening of a new on-campus restaurant featuring a special celebrity guest, the video reflects the energy and pride felt across campus. It also celebrates the launch of a brand-new recreation
center for students and the installation of multiple new murals that continue to enrich the campus landscape. Together, these moments tell the story of a year marked by innovation, community, and lasting impact.
Design Firm: University of Cincinnati Client: University of Cincinnati Campus Services Winning Entry: 2025 Year In Review Video Creative Director: Makayla Boyd Designer: Makayla Boyd Writer: Makayla Boyd Category: Motion/Video/Animation
Design Firm: Yunwei Dan
Brand Identity Concept-Driven Project Designer:
Branding Assets
Winning Entry: Kumomi Skincare
Yunwei Dan Category: Digital
ADVERTISER INDEX
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GDUSA PRINT AND DIGITAL MAGAZINES
Academy of Art University 5 academyart.edu
Artisan 11 artisantalent.com
Billerud/Sterling Premium IFC billerud.com
Billerud/Graphics Papers 22
Domtar 9 info.domtar.com/cougar
Kallima IBC kallimapaper.com
Savannah College of Art & Design 3 scad.edu/visit
Sylvamo BC acccentopaque.com
Syracuse University School of Design 7 vpa.syr.edu/cmd2025
Roskelly, Inc. 13 roskelly.com
GDUSA.COM RUN-OF-SITE BANNERS
Academy of Art University academyart.edu
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Northwestern University sps.northwestern.edu/info/information-design.php
