OVERVIEWGood design doesn't define a community. It gives a community the space to define itself.
The IIDA Southwest Chapter is a nonprofit organization that serves a constantly-evolving design community. Over five years, I developed a flexible visual system that supported changing leadership, diverse programming, and a growing digital presence while giving each initiative its own distinct voice. Along the way, I became a trusted creative partner, helping the chapter translate ideas from many voices into one cohesive experience.
A PLACE TO CALL HOME
IIDA
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SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
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IIDA | SOUTHWEST CHAPTER |
As the chapter’s initiatives grew, its website needed to transform from a simple information hub to a unified platform that made it easier for members, students, sponsors, and volunteers to engage with the chapter.
Working closely with board leadership, I led a complete redesign spanning sixteen pages. From information architecture and copywriting to visual design and implementation, I created a digital experience that brought the chapter's mission, programs, and people together in one cohesive home. Finally, the website truly reflected the energy of the community it served.
SCALE
Designed a 16-page website that unified the chapter's programs, events, and resources into one cohesive experience
FUNCTION
Every chapter initiative is represented, each with its own priorities and audience, all without losing continuity
BUILT TO LAST
Created a flexible foundation that continued supporting the chapter through future leadership transitions
CREATIVE DIRECTION & EVENT LEADERSHIP
Reimagining a Tradition
UnVeiled is the chapter's signature annual tradeshow and fundraiser, bringing together designers, industry vendors, sponsors, and students for an immersive evening built around a unique theme each year. Every touchpoint—from registration and signage, to printed materials and digital promotion—needed to feel like part of one cohesive experience.
My role quickly grew beyond graphic design. As the elected Event Committee Chairperson, I led a team of volunteers to coordinate vendors, manage production, and carry the creative vision from concept to execution. It was my first opportunity to lead a large-scale creative effort, reinforcing that thoughtful design is just as much about bringing people together as it is about the work itself.
Led the creative direction for the chapter's signature annual fundraising event
Managed 70+ vendors, a team of volunteers, venue staff communications, and print production from concept through installation
Developed a complete event identity spanning digital, print, environmental, and promotional materials
Raised $32,000 in profit for the chapter
Created an immersive event experience that strengthened relationships between vendors and the local design community, including a sponsored activity where a provided “passport” rewarded you for “traveling” throughout the event
Reconnecting Through Design
Emerging from the isolation of 2020, the 2021 UnVeiled trade show embraced a playful visual direction that reflected the industry's desire to reconnect. Every creative decision was an opportunity to create moments of curiosity, conversation, and celebration while maintaining a polished experience worthy of the Chapter's signature annual event.
As Co-Chairperson, I supported the event's creative direction while leading the development of interactive experiences that encouraged attendees to participate, rather than simply observe. From live artists painting throughout the evening to a collaborative sponsor mural that evolved alongside the event, these moments transformed the trade show into a shared creative experience. In a year when familiar traditions carried new meaning, inviting people to participate made the experience feel personal rather than performative.