about me
My journey as a graphic designer began at Ponitz high school (formerly known as Patterson Career Center) in Dayton, Ohio. During school orientation, my escort introduced me to the Advertising & Design classes available at the school. Where I met a man who inspired me to challenge myself in graphic design, Mr. Jerome Ingrame, a retired Air Force Graphic Illustrator. While under his guidance, he taught me the importance of typography, how brand design plays a pivotal role in our everyday way of thinking, and how using art helps messages appear clear to the reader. From there, I have followed those moments that Mr. Ingram taught me to help shape my future.
Towards the end of my senior year in high school, I had not planned on going to college. I put all my eggs in one basket and was determined to join the Air Force. There was only one problem I was hard of hearing. I was told by a teacher that I would not be able to join the military because of my hearing loss and that it would make me a liability to the government. I was determined to prove them wrong. I had taken all the tests and passed them until I got to the MEPS Station in Columbus and failed the hearing test twice. This was a crushing blow to me then my mother told me to pursue a career in graphic design. She knew how much I loved it. She signed me up for classes at Sinclair Community College, where my passion for creative exploration would be reignited to further light the way to my future as a graphic designer.
Two things I would say define me best, loving my family to the best of my ability and being a creative person who loves to make designs and speak to people visually.
As an artist, I specialize in three aspects of creativity: graphic design, photography, and illustration.
I am most proud of not giving up. Thankful to share my story with others who may be going through the same thing in their careers. My goal in life is to inspire at least one person. To take the torch of creative thinking, as it was given to me so many years ago, to inspire other artists to know their value and to embrace the joy of expressing their visions through art of all forms. I am also proud of being a family man. My wife and children are my anchor and inspiration. Their support motivates me whenever I am at a low; they lift me to my highest potential.
What sets me apart from others is I try to treat every person with dignity and respect; no matter their social status, we are all human first.
Knowing and understanding the value I bring to myself and others; I can apply my design and leadership skills to work. In my current role, I meet many interesting people while working as the Brand Design Specialist at the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce. My designs and thoughts help communicate clear and engaging messages to our members throughout the region. Check out some of my work and how the Dayton Chamber can help your business grow, at www.DaytonChamber.org.
