My Start
In college, I was all about becoming an illustrator—hands down, no question. I was ready for a life of sketchbooks, coffee stains, and no financial stability. But then I started spending more time on my computer, and BAM — digital design swept me off my feet. Suddenly, I wasn’t just drawing or painting; I was designing websites and interfaces...
I was obsessed.
I dove headfirst into every web and digital design course my college offered (which, spoiler, wasn’t many). After graduation, I took two jobs in the online learning space, both of which vanished quicker than free food at a tech conference. So, I did what any sensible person would do I switched to something steadier.
Enter Big Blue (also known as IBM). Little did I know, my career would evolve from working in IBM’s ‘Speed Team’—an organization dedicated to technology and innovation—to spending the rest of my career across various organizations, expanding into visual, product, and UX design. Definitely not the plan, but hey, turns out stability isn’t so bad—especially when it’s wrapped in a ton of creative opportunities. And there were many, as the following will hopefully show.
I’ve always had a love for banter, especially when it brings a smile to people’s faces. With that in mind, I’ve infused a bit of humor into this portfolio, as I believe that an entertained audience is an engaged one. While a bit unconventional, I hope it adds a touch of fun and is taken in good spirit.
P.S. Yes, I am an American citizen, based in Connecticut, and do not need visa sponsorship
Or find out why you should
Core values. A moment of zen.
It’s all about the user
Priorities and requirements are important. Executive requests should be taken into consideration. However, it’s the user that should determine how something works.
No, it’s not about making it look pretty.
UX and Visual Design is not solely about aesthetics. We need to make sure it’s simple, consistent, accessible, clear, scalable, and intuitive
Fail fast. Fail early.
Many are confused by this phrase. Design is about identifying potential problems or failures as early as possible. It doesn’t just save time and confusion, it saves the company money and effort. How you ask? Test early and iterate which leads to reduced risk and innovation.
Awards and Recognition
But enough about me, lets talk about me.
Director Recognition Award
2023
Honor is given once a year to a designer for their outstanding contributions to a project, team, and/or organization
Equity Award
2015, 2019, 2023
Compensation in the form of company stock is given to recognize their contributions and align their interests with the company's long-term success.
Bluebird Innovation Award
2015
Designer recognition for their exceptional creativity and problem-solving in designing solutions for the "Bluebird" project, showcasing significant advancements in user experience and innovation
Manager Appreciation Award
2022
Recognition given to a designer, by a manager, for exceptional performance, leadership, and contribution to the design process, and/or team success,
Leadership Challenge Coin Award
2021, 2022
A symbolic recognition of a designers exceptional leadership, influence, and dedication to fostering innovation and teamwork within the design process.
Mobi award
2015
Recognition of outstanding work in creating innovative and user-centric mobile experiences that enhance functionality, usability, and engagement on mobile platforms.
Performance Recognition
2021-2024 (tenfold)
Acknowledgment is given to a designer for their outstanding work, highlighting their skills, dedication, and impact on user experience design projects and team goals.
People’s Choice Innovation Award
2016
Recognition to a designer, based on popular vote, celebrating their groundbreaking design ideas or solutions that have made a significant impact on users and the broader community.
Simple but profound…
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”
Although it has been challenged, Leonardo da Vinci famously stated this quote. Upon reading it, it deeply resonated with me. Merely simplifying a design does not require excessive time. However, the true skill lies in simplifying a design while preserving its essence, features, and functionality. Something that can be easily missed by a standard user’s perspective.
Personal Facts