2 minute read
Artistry in Action
Graphic Design Student Wins Statewide Competition
Art has always been a major part of Jennifer Uthell’s life, but it wasn’t until recently that she decided to take it digital and major in Graphic Design. Now, her art is set to be displayed at one of the largest annual gatherings of business educators in the state.
TURNING PASSION TO PROFESSION
Jennifer got her first look into graphic design as a high school senior, when she managed social media pages as a student in the Effingham County CEO program. The experience convinced her to pursue it as a career, and she identified Lake Land’s associate degree program as the best option to rapidly prepare for the workforce.
“Lake Land’s program is really straightforward and has allowed me to jump right into my career interests,” Jennifer said. “You can tell all the instructors have a lot of experience in the graphic design field.”
A CREATIVE TRIUMPH
As a Lake Land student, Jennifer has expanded her graphic design skills in several projects. The most notable one came during the Fall 2024 semester, when she and her classmates submitted
“I was happy with what I submitted, but finding out I won was definitely a shock,” Jennifer said.
DREAMS ON DISPLAY
Jennifer’s winning design will be used in all IBEA branding during the organization’s fall conference, an annual assembly of business education leaders throughout Illinois. For a young designer like Jennifer, the publicity is an exciting opportunity and promising sign for her career moving forward.
“I have a graphic design job where one aspect is designing digital billboards, and I remember how surreal it was to see my artwork displayed publicly for the first time,” Jennifer said. “It’s definitely a similar feeling to know my logo design will be seen by so many.”
