So Good It’s RiDQulous were career based and so were our deadlines. I was a full-time student taking classes during the day, but often times my classmates and I would stay after well into the evening to work on our art projects.” From NHCC, Culver transferred to the University of Minnesota, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in fine arts in 1975. She immediately found work as a graphic designer and an art director for a couple of advertising agencies before joining DQ in 1989. Today, Culver is in charge of the point-of-purchase marketing kits for all the franchise stores. “One of DQ’s latest initiatives is implementing digital menu boards. They allow us to electronically display our in-store menus, along with animated graphics. This technology is not only more appealing to the customers, but also more efficient for employees and cost-effective for the stores. Digital merchandising is the future and will continue to evolve.”
employees who are also good workers, meaning they have great social skills and are open to change. It’s important too that employers invest in their talented and good employees through professional development in order to keep them motivated and current.” Sue’s “practical education” and portfolio from NHCC prepared her for a rewarding career at Dairy Queen. She credits the quality of the program and the outstanding faculty for giving her the foundation she needed to be successful in her field.
The Dilly Bar debuted in 1955. It continues to be one of Dairy Queen’s most popular products.
For more information about NHCC’s programs, visit www.nhcc.edu.
Culver has received numerous awards and recognitions. She is a renowned speaker on digital merchandising and also belongs to the Digital Signage Expo Advisory Board, which puts on the world’s largest international trade show regarding digital signage, interactive technology, and out-of-home networks. When asked about current needs of employers in the graphic industry, Culver indicated that there is a growing demand for digital animators. But she also said that talent isn’t the only thing employers are looking for. “Employers want talented
Last September, DQ began testing 40- and 46-inch digital menu boards in 12 franchise locations. In 60 to 80 percent of the cases, the items featured on the digital displays sold more than the same items in stores without digital displays.
North Hennepin Community College / Fall 2012
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