Ferris DSGN Events
A project in which I designed the experience, visual, and conceptual directions for a series of events for Ferris State University's Design program. The events consisted of two series: the Fall Critique and DSGN Week in the spring.
Our role was to develop the conceptual and visual identity of the event, craft messaging that appeals to a wide range of audiences, and design a seamless experience for the RSVPing and attendance all events.
Deliverables
Full identity and experience for two separate event series
The Critique
November 2024
The Fall Critique is a two-part event where the Design Program invites a select group of design professionals to provide critiques of student work in 15 to 20 minute sessions. This event takes place over two days, with one session held in person and the other online.
The audience for this event consisted of an exclusive group of design professionals, thus our messaging and communication methods catered directly to them.
Concept Development
We began by auditing the experiences and visuals of previous Ferris DSGN Events, as well as researching what other schools have done for their own events. After this research, we began several rounds of concept development, advisor and client review, and internal testing before landing on our decided concept, "We Like Awkward."
This concept aims to represent that through the awkward moments while trying new things, in both our careers and lives, we grow and become better people. Thus, we should embrace these "awkward" moments, as they are what ultimately lead to our own growth.
"Whether we’re asking for feedback from design pros, or trying new design tools and techniques, or even a new hobby, uneasiness is part of the intentional design of becoming better. We find comfort in these awkward moments, knowing ultimately they lead to our own benefit."
Email Campaign User Experience
Since our audience consisted of a specific group of design professionals, all communications and advertisement of this event was done via email campaign.
In-Person Event Environmental Materials
Environmental materials for the in-person event consisted of directional signage, signage for guest favors, name tags, and student worker t-shirts. These elements maintained the brand's humorous tone, ensuring a cohesive and engaging experience.
Online Event Environmental Materials
For the online event, environmental materials consisted of zoom backgrounds for all students and faculty in attendance.
DSGN Week
April–May 2025
Ferris DSGN Week is a series of events celebrating design students and connecting them with industry professionals. It consists of three events: the Spring showcase, Online Portfolio Reviews, and Alumni Talks. At the Spring Showcase a guest speaker shares industry insights and seniors present their work from the past four years. Online Portfolio Reviews consist of one-on-one sessions with design professionals who provide personalized feedback on students' portfolios. And third, the Alumni Talks bring past graduates back to network and share their experiences, giving current students valuable perspectives on the industry.
Our audience for this event was much wider, encapsulating all students, Ferris alumni, and industry professionals.
Concept Development
We wanted the concept for DSGN Week to be clear and meaningful for those who attended the fall Critique while also being accessible to those unfamiliar with it. Thus, we landed on the concept of "Getting it Together". This concept references back to our 'awkward' phase in the Fall, stating that we are now 'Getting it together'. For those unfamiliar with the all event, the concept of students getting together before graduation still stands relevant.
Promotional Campaign
Since we were reaching a larger audience, we utilized both email and social media advertising for DSGN Week.
Samples from the Email Advertising Campaign
Samples from the Advertising Campaign
Senior feature Instagram stories and reels
Spring Showcase Environmental Elements
Signage and elemental pieces to be used at the Spring Showcase on April 28th, 2025.
Online Portfolio Reviews
Zoom backgrounds to be used by students for the Online Portfolio Reviews taking place April 29th and 30th, 2025.
Alumni Talks Environmental Elemr
Signage and elemental pieces to be used at the Alumni Talks on May 1st, 2025.
Our Impact
From our direction and efforts for Ferris DSGN Week, we were (so far) able to increase RSVP’s by 13% as compared to last year.
