It's time for an employee spotlight!

Meet Whitney, our art director here at College Hill. She got her start as an intern and is now fearlessly leading our graphic design team, largely driving our aesthetic and technique. She recently traded Seattle for the Second City, heading up a Midwestern outpost. We sat down to chat with her about her art, style, new city and her path with College Hill.

What originally got you interested in graphic design? How did that shape the designer that you are today?

I've always been interested in art, even from a young age. During high school, in graphic art classes, I realized I could take art and make it more strategic in the digital world. I began learning all the programs possible! In college, a degree in the fine arts (emphasis on graphic design) was a no-brainer. Ever since, I’ve been trying to incorporate all realms of art into design including photography, printmaking, painting, sketching and so forth. I think it's so important for a creative to have several mediums and outlets inspiring their work.

What is “‘your'" style of design and what influences it?

My style is always changing. I take so much inspiration from the outside world, such as color palettes. I love neutral, earthy tones and am always keeping my eye out for real world colors and tones. I also draw a lot of inspiration from past decades. I can look at vintage album art, band tees and posters for hours on end! These graphics have type treatments and colors that pop to me and I love to incorporate those elements in my work.

How did you get involved with College Hill and what kept you around?

I was initially drawn to College Hill through the design internship program. Although living in Idaho at the time, I loved the culture and energy found at the CH office. My design mentors and peers were so inspiring and I felt creatively charged! After graduating, I moved to Seattle to continue working in the Seattle branch office. At College Hill, I made more life-long connections and had the opportunity to see our thriving company on more of a corporate level. The hustle and creative energy of CH always resonated and inspired something in me, but the people and company culture kept me around. I feel so thankful to have such a great network of colleagues to work with - whether its in the same office or all the way across the country!

What are your ultimate goals as a designer?

A huge goal of mine is to be a lifelong learner and creator. I'd love to explore so many other fields and become versed in several avenues of art, as well as business. I'm hoping that with each passing year, I can network with other like-minded creatives and professionals, travel more, take more classes and attend more conferences. I would love the opportunity to lead others through design and help inspire others creatively.

What are your favorite hobbies?

I am totally a crazy plant lady! I've been loving all of the conservatories and plant shops to explore in Chicago. In addition, my boyfriend Will and I have a pretty elaborate herb garden in the works that I'm very excited about! I also love hanging out with our husky, Archer, at the dog beach and attending all the concerts and music festivals I can!

What is your favorite thing to do in Chicago?

I am obsessed with all the coffee shops, restaurants and bars in the area. The food scene is to die for and I love taking my work to cute cafes whenever possible. I have a massive list of places to experience but it might take a decade to make my rounds!

What is your favorite food, color, ice cream?

My favorite food would probably have to be mac ’n cheese! I love the color black and my favorite ice cream is Cherry Garcia (Ben & Jerry's).

What is your favorite thing about working at College Hill?

I love knowing there's a whole company of friends and co-workers I can lean on, even several states away! I love the fast-paced grind and creative freedom. I feel #blessed to work with such creative and like-minded individuals!

Check out Whitney's designs, as well as her team's designs, in the galleries on our site!