Strategic academic institution branding
John Jay College
John Jay College needed a thoughtful design partner to implement their new graphic identity system and create donor materials supporting their most recent academic building launch. The fundraising campaign had an aggressive timeline and required materials that could effectively communicate philanthropic naming opportunities to high-value donors.
My role: Lead designer implementing complete visual identity system and donor package strategy, working directly with college administration and development teams.
Strategic approach:
- Conducted stakeholder interviews to understand donor motivations and communication preferences
- Designed modular folder brochure system highlighting philanthropic naming opportunities
- Created exterior signage and interior messaging reinforcing the new brand identity
- Developed enrollment kits and quarterly magazine layouts maintaining brand consistency
- Coordinated production timelines across multiple vendors for simultaneous delivery
Impact: The donor package and supporting materials directly contributed to raising over $5 million in one week, exceeding fundraising expectations and successfully launching the new building campaign.
Deliverables:
- Brand implementation across multiple touchpoints
- Interior and exterior architectural signage
- Custom donor presentation folder system
- Student enrollment materials
- Quarterly publication design
- International conference campaign materials
Architectural Signage
Comprehensive signage program including exterior architectural applications and interior messaging wall murals throughout the building, reinforcing the college’s academic mission and visual identity.
philanthropic naming Brochure
Self-closing folder holding 14 fact cards, detailing philanthropic naming options inside the new building. The brochure package contributed to higher than expected donor contributions.
New-Student Enrollment Kit
Branded new-student kit featuring essential onboarding materials in a custom folder, designed to create a strong first impression and boost incoming student engagement.
Justice Matters | Quarterly Magazine
42-page glossy publication highlighting John Jay’s programs, achievements, and events—designed to strengthen alumni relations and support ongoing fundraising initiatives.
International Conference Campaign
Integrated campaign including poster, postcard, and brochure promoting John Jay’s international conference, unifying event branding across multiple formats to boost attendance and visibility.
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