profile
Dedicated and passionate graphic designer and educator with over 15 years of experience in the classroom, Masters in Art Education +60 additional graduate credits, and more than 20 years working experience in the design field. Committed to fostering creativity and critical thinking, excited to share a wealth of expertise, talents, and skills. Dedicated to inspiring future generations of designers and educators, bringing a unique blend of practical design experience and educational insight, while creating an engaging and transformative learning environment.
education
MAT Art Education
Montclair State University, NJ
State of NJ Teaching Certificate, 2011
Graduate with Honors, 4.0 GPA
Sept. 2006 - May 2010
BFA Graphic Design
School of Visual Arts, NYC
Sept. 1998 - May 2002
skills
EXCEPTIONALLY DETERMINED & PASSIONATE
Highly reliable and driven professional known for exceptional work ethic and unwavering commitment to excellence. Consistently goes above and beyond, fueled by passion and motivation. Always maintains a relentless pursuit of continuous growth and self-improvement. Exceptional organization and time management skills, highly efficient work ethic and a consistent track record of meeting even the most challenging deadlines.
CREATIVE & TECH-SAVVY GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Innovative and creative designer with over 20+ years of experience with the Adobe Creative Suite, a seasoned designer and creative problem solver with a broad range of talents, including typography, layout design, vector illustration, photography, product & package design, signage and presentations. Proficient in technology integration (Canvas LMS, Google Suite, Zoom, Adobe Creative Cloud). Extensive background in the design, overseas production and global distribution of products from conception to retail featured in major stores across the country including Target, Claire's, Nordstrom, and Macy's. Adept at logo design and visual branding for clients spanning the fields of fashion, medical, entertainment, food/beverage, non-profit, fitness and more.
INSPIRING & COMPASSIONATE EDUCATOR
Compassionate and dedicated educator with a proven record of success at a top-rated public high school in New Jersey, recognized as #1 in the state for outstanding teachers (Niche.com, 2024). Independently developed he school’s first graphic design program, which grew to a comprehensive three-level curriculum with over eight sections, including Honors and AP. Through project based learning with a focus on real-world experience, this program has produced award-winning students and leaders in creative fields. Designed and delivered interactive professional development courses and propelled cultural change within the school community through the vision & mission initiative. Served as a mentor and teacher leader in educational technology and student engagement. Known for inspiring students and colleagues while earning respect and trust from all stakeholders. Produced nationally recognized yearbooks throughout an illustrious 15 year tenure as yearbook advisor. An expert in social-emotional learning with a strong ability to build meaningful relationships and create a safe, supportive environment. Committed to making a lasting impact on students, fostering growth and resilience that endures well beyond the classroom.
certifications
Social Emotional Learning
Endicott College, 2024
Bullying Prevention
University of San Diego, 2023
Diversity & Inclusion
American College of Education, 2022
Character Education Development
University of San Diego, 2020
Mental Health First Response
University of San Diego, 2019
work history
HIGHLY QUALIFIED TEACHER OF ART
TEACHER LEADER & MENTOR
YEARBOOK ADVISOR
Northern Highlands Regional High School
Allendale, NJ
Sept. 2010 - current
FREELANCE DESIGNER
DA.NY Design
May 2010 - current
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Silver Goose Accessories
New York, NY
June 2005 - Sept. 2010
SENIOR DESIGNER
Jaclyn Apparel
New York, NY
Sept. 2003 - May 2005