Cengage

I have been with Cengage since May 2021, where I collaborate with stakeholders and cross-functional teams to create learner-centered designs that balance budget, content, and schedule. I lead design strategy and execution across multiple disciplines for the U.S. and Canadian markets, overseeing projects from concept development through cover and interior design, illustration, HTML activities, and photo shoots. I also manage freelancers and vendors, develop style guides, and ensure all products meet accessibility and inclusivity standards.

For a higher education psychology textbook, I led the concept and execution of a photo shoot exploring identity and self-perception. Partnering with design, content, sales, and marketing teams, we launched a call-for-artists campaign inviting university students and local artists to create self-portraits reflecting their personal identity. I organized and directed a two-day shoot where a professional photographer captured each artist holding their work. Due to the sensitive subject matter, we intentionally concealed participants’ faces, allowing the artwork to represent the psychological themes without directly linking individuals to specific disorders. The result was a thoughtfully executed visual series that strengthened the textbook’s narrative and exceeded expectations.

For each new book edition, I lead a design launch with the content team to discuss the edition’s goals, design needs, and overall creative direction. I develop the cover and interior designs in-house or manage a freelance designer, ensuring the work aligns with the project’s objectives and brand standards. I schedule the initial design review and coordinate any subsequent reviews, with the team accessing project materials and providing feedback through Workfront. I also manage the production schedule and budget for each edition, keeping the project on track from concept through completion.

When designing new editions, I also review the art manuscript to identify opportunities for accessibility updates or artwork refreshes requested by the content team. When updates are needed, I create an art style guide outlining the approved fonts, color palette, special instructions, and examples of the updated artwork. I then share the guide with the Composition team, who use it to update the artwork throughout the edition.

Cengage Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Shining Star Photography Team Forget Me Not