Emerald 50 Years Independence
One of the most meaningful and ambitious projects I’ve had the honor to design is Emerald: Fifty Years of Independence, a commemorative coffee table book celebrating five decades of editorial independence for the Daily Emerald, achieved in 1971. Spanning 146 pages, the book was written by former Emerald journalists who have since gone on to distinguished careers in journalism, media, politics, and beyond. The project chronicles key milestones from each decade, while also featuring personal reflections and current-day profiles of over 160 alumni.
My goal in conceptualizing the visual identity of the book was to capture the breadth and gravity of the Emerald’s impact—showcasing how generations of student journalists covered major campus, national, and global events with integrity, grit, and an unmistakable voice. The tone I aimed for throughout was one of reverence and professionalism, balanced with a sense of spirit and wit that reflects the publication’s personality.
This project also served as a cornerstone of a broader branding and fundraising effort that successfully helped the organization reach its $50,000 goal by spring of that same year. From layout to typography to narrative pacing, every design decision was driven by the mission to honor legacy while inspiring future investment.
Magazine / Layout
During my time as Creative Director at Emerald Media Group, I led the visual direction for several editorial projects, including concept development and photoshoots for magazine covers. One notable project was Duck Life, a publication designed to capture the energy, camaraderie, and spirit of student life at the University of Oregon. For this issue I focused on shaping a visual narrative that felt authentic, fun, and emotionally resonant with the student audience. Produced annually to welcome incoming students, Duck Life served not only as a celebration of school pride but also as a key platform for partner businesses to connect with their audience through peer-driven representation and vibrant, student-centered storytelling.
Green Eugene was a student-run editorial magazine focused on cannabis culture and the community, reflecting the voices of student journalists. Distributed monthly to dispensaries throughout Eugene, the publication aims to inform and connect with a broad, youthful audience. While the photography was handled by student staff, I had the opportunity to design the cover—highlighting themes of youth, inclusivity, and LGBTQ+ pride. The visual direction balanced playfulness with sophistication, aiming to present cannabis culture as relatable, vibrant, and diverse.