Degree: Bachelor of Science
Degree Program: Program for Individualized Learning:
Art & Graphic Design; Bookmaking; Artists-In-Residence
and Artists-In-Residence in Rural Communities
Additional education undertaken after graduation:
M.A. in Design, Housing and Apparel, Graphic Design
emphasis
Coursework begun toward Ph.D.
Numerous workshops, seminars and various technical
training sessions including University of Minnesota
Technology Learning Center
Previous Job Titles & Organizations
Independent graphic designer, illustrator, and artist.
Graphic Designer, De brey Design
Graphic Designer, InterDesign
Artist-In-Residence, Eagle Bend, Minnesota
Graphic Designer-In-Residence, Grand Rapids, Minnesota
Senior Layout Artist and Special Projects Designer, Gamble-Skogmo, Inc.
Loaned Executive, United Way
Co-Founder and Vice President, Comcept Computer Graphics
Graphic Designer, DHA Graphic Design Office & Goldstein Gallery, University of
Minnesota
Creative Art Director, Art & Design Group, Norwest Corporate Graphics, Norwest
Corporation
Senior Art Director, Carlson Frequency Marketing Company, Carlson Marketing
Group, Carlson Companies
Lecturer, Adjunct Faculty, various colleges and universities
Current Job Title: Designer
Organization: Patrick Redmond Design
How did you find this job?
Originally, this “job” -- as an independent professional with my own business --
found me when I was 16 and my former art teacher, Sister Mary Irenita, OSF,
referred a client of hers to me… 43 years ago. The client was Hi-Time magazine, a
large circulation, weekly publication for Catholic youth.
What from your undergraduate educational experience was most helpful
in preparing you for this career?
An academic “structure” that was conducive to my circumstances, my independence, initiative and creativity. University of Minnesota’s University Without Walls, University College (later known as PIL, Program for Individualized Learning) emphasized learning how to learn and learning as a lifelong process as well as using whatever resources were necessary to achieve educational and career goals. The program and the committed people – including advisers, staff, faculty, and fellow students – were positive influences. These were all committed to the vision and experience that encouraged, supported, recognized and rewarded individual initiative and achievement within the context of the University of Minnesota.
What is the biggest misconception about this occupation or field?
Being an independent professional, a business owner, as a creative designer is not a 9-to-5 “job”… it is a vocation, often a 24-hour per day preoccupation. Being a designer is not a “job”, per se. It is a way of being. It is an identity in itself.
What advice do you have for current students?
Work for leading, reputable clients and/or employers. If you are going into business make sure you have competent and trustworthy accountants, lawyers, bankers, and technical support personnel as members of your team. Don’t be discouraged by adverse economic circumstances. Read biographies and autobiographies of creative leaders you admire. Be creative yet keep in mind that most clients and/or employers are typically interested in how you will either increase income/profit for them or how you will reduce expenses for them. Be enthusiastic but not naïve… Don’t give your time and talent away. Make the most of your affiliation with the University of Minnesota by becoming an active member of the alumni association.