Creative director by day, educator by night, and more things the rest of the time.
The short story…
I got my first job as a graphic designer while studying art at UC San Diego (BA 2006), working in the marketing office for the on-campus housing and dining facilities. I learned a ton while doing everything: original design concepts, photo productions, print prep and file releases, sign fabrication and installation, and much more. I moved into a managerial role and stayed there for a couple years after graduating, then decided to go back to school and sharpen my skills. I earned my graduate degree in visual communication from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (MFA 2011) and started working at Upshot and teaching at Northwestern not too long after that. I still learn things every day and still try to do everything.
The 9-5:
Upshot
Group Creative Director (since 2022)
Started in July 2011 as Junior Art Director
I’ve spent 5 years in my current role, leading the development and production of brand activation campaigns for Constellation Brands (importers of Corona, Modelo, Pacifico, and Victoria beers). The things I create take many forms including retail displays, consumer promotions, experiential marketing, and social/digital content — whatever best serves the idea and assignment. If you’re looking for an example of something and not finding it here, feel free to ask.
After Hours:
Northwestern University
Adjunct Lecturer, School of Professional Studies
Started in January 2012
I lead “Introduction to Visual Communication & Graphic Design” on Thursday nights every Winter quarter. Equal parts conceptual and technical, my course leaves students with a base of critical design thinking skills as well as a newfound familiarity with industry-standard design software. Offered through the professional school but open to all University students, my class is usually an equal mix of adults looking to pick up a new skill and undergraduates pondering their future.
24/7:
Wall of Youth & X-Ray Arcade
I love music and spend my free time playing in bands, making art for other bands, and running a bar/restaurant/venue where bands from all over the world come and perform. I like staying busy.