I was born in March 17, 1984, Saint Patrick’s Day, which explains my always-present affinity with the color green. I found my inspiration in sixth grade with a teacher named Mrs. Keopp. I was given a chance to explore my abilities in visual expression. The class was asked to do an interpretation of a Matisse painting called “Purple Robe and Anemones.” The only problem was that I didn’t have a purple pastel in my set, no problem, and I will call it “Green Robe…” To my surprise, it wasn’t bad. In fact, the school district wanted to buy it; I identified a skill within myself that I have been developing ever since.

By the time I reached Western Washington University, I knew that graphic design was the discipline for me. I feel that graphic design takes art to a whole new level, as it requires communication, problem solving, and foresight. It is dynamic. It is powerful in ways that fine art isn’t always able to be. These qualities are also what can make or break a successful, team playing, employee within any organization.

In addition to graphic design, my other lifelong passion is activism and organizing. My first introduction to social activism was a small wilderness organization called the Wilderness Volunteer Corps, an organization dedicated to empowering youth through service. My involvement with this program lasted five years: three as a student, and two as an employee. My involvement in activism continued in college as I started volunteering for the Women’s Center, eventually becoming a co-coordinator. By the time I reached the end of my college career, I was finally able to combine my two passions – art and activism - as the assistant coordinator of the Viking Union Art Gallery. My main objective was to address a wide range of social issues, including everything from gender identity to the prison industrial complex.

My lifelong goal is to continue bringing these two passions together as I navigate my way through the workforce. I want to serve my community through graphic design.