AIGA Los Angeles

CA Dept of Education’s AME CTE Industry Sector Partners with AIGA Chapters to Shape the Future of Public Design Education

AIGA Los Angeles — Sat, 12 Feb 2022 19:02:10 +0000

Los Angeles, CA – February 15, 2022: AIGA Los Angeles and the California Department of Education’s Arts, Media and Entertainment Career Technical Education (CTE-AME) Industry Sector announced today a partnership to form an advisory group of design industry professionals for the AME Emerging Careers and Workforce Training Initiative.

The advisory group will help develop new standards for design education in California public high school CTE-AME programs and establish a registered youth apprenticeship program for continued training. These programs will support the initiative’s goal of inspiring the workforce of the future and creating equitable pathways into the design industry, which will ultimately help create a more diverse workforce.

This initiative is an extension of the work AIGA Los Angeles had accomplished along with Los Angeles Unified School District’s CTE-AME programs in early 2021 where design professionals visited students in classrooms and facilitated career exploration. The success of this partnership cleared the way for AIGA chapters of California (Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, San Francisco) to come together and pursue their mission at a grander scale.

“To truly begin furthering our mission of advancing design, we must first consider how we infuse the tenets of equity and inclusion into everything we do,” said Sam Cabrera, AIGA Los Angeles President. “Without the bold leadership who breathed a new fire and shared vision into AIGA over the past two years, we wouldn’t be here today: bringing together a collection of individuals who quite literally are creating change. We hope the outcome of this work will be the beginning of our profession’s potential to truly change the world.”

“As someone who also entered the design profession in a non-traditional way, I’m excited to know the results of this advisory group and youth apprenticeship program will allow greater inclusion of people who may not have access to traditional (i.e. expensive) higher education. Pathways to a creative career have evolved so much in recent years; it’s time that design education does the same.” said Venessa Baez-Jones, AIGA Los Angeles Secretary and President Emeritus of the AIGA Tampa Bay chapter.

Initial members of this advisory group include names such as Louise Sandhaus, Faculty, California Institute of the Arts and Founder/Co-Director, The People’s Graphic Design Archive; Mike Monteiro, co-founder and Design Director at Mule Design; Erika Hall, co-founder of Mule Design; David Dylan Thomas, Founder & CEO, David Dylan Thomas, LLC; Author, Design for Cognitive Bias; Inez S. Bush, Assistant Dean of Extension, Otis College of Art and Design; Nick Gawith, SVP, Executive Creative Director at Razorfish; Love Beach, VP of Creative Strategy at Blavity Inc; Matthew Carlson, Director of UX Design, Creative Cloud at Adobe, and more.

The advisory group will include professionals across various design disciplines, thought leadership, education, and representation of historically excluded communities. This will be a group which holds bold, futurist ideas which will advance the design profession in areas of diversity, equity, decolonization, inclusion, ethics, and emerging technologies. Work is slated to begin in February and will continue in 2022.

How can you help us in our mission?

Keep up to date with AIGA Los Angeles and all CA chapter events that help fund programs like these on our newsletter, Instagram, L inkedin, and TikTok.
Want to volunteer to help us or know someone who would? Contact us at lausd@aigala.org!
Consider donating to AIGA LA. Your donations make a difference in what we’re able to achieve by providing valuable resources to grow. All charitable contributions to AIGA LA are tax-deductible to the extent the tax code allows. AIGA LA’s U.S. federal tax ID is 95-2080216.

About AIGA Los Angeles

AIGA Los Angeles is a volunteer-run, voluntary membership 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for the design community in Los Angeles. We are one of the largest amongst 70+ sibling chapter organizations in the nation. AIGA LA was founded in 1983 by influential designers who have shaped our industry, a legacy that we take very seriously — our city and community is the destination for anyone aspiring to create no matter where they came from.

About AIGA

AIGA, the professional association for design, advances design as a professional craft, strategic advantage, and vital cultural force. As the largest community of design advocates, AIGA brings together practitioners, enthusiasts, and patrons to amplify the voice of design and creates the vision for a collective future. AIGA defines global standards and ethical practices, guides design education, inspires designers and the public, enhances professional development, and makes powerful tools and resources accessible to all. Learn more at aiga.org.

About the Artist

Marina Murad is an award-winning Iraqi-American designer and art director living in Los Angeles. Currently, she is a Senior Designer at Media.Monks for Google and serves on the Board of Directors at AIGA Los Angeles.

Murad’s work has been shown on the covers of Adweek, and Advertising Age magazines. Her past clients have included Apple, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Mattel Games, Snapchat, Yahoo, Verizon Media, DC Comics, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Live Nation, Disney, The Hollywood Reporter, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, and various Los Angeles based start-ups and businesses.

AIGA LA x Los Angeles Unified to Inspire the Future of Design

AIGA Los Angeles — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 05:48:41 +0000

Los Angeles, CA: Today, the Los Angeles Chapter of AIGA, the professional association for design, announces a partnership with the Los Angeles Unified School District’s Career Technical Education – Arts, Media & Entertainment (AME) program. Through this partnership, AIGA LA aims to work with LAUSD to inspire the next generation of designers and be a supportive resource for their students, programs, and teachers.

Of the CTE – Arts, Media, & Entertainment (AME) pathway, graphic design is the largest course with over 70 teachers who provide hands-on learning environments which lead to industry certifications. Engagements include a career exploration where AIGA members from a variety of creative and design professions enter the classroom to discuss their careers and share work examples. We’ll also provide hands-on learning and workshops introducing design practices and applications used in the profession today.

“As a Los Angeles Unified graduate, this partnership means a lot to me. My computer graphics teacher, Mr. Suarez-Pierra, once made an offhand comment about design as a career when I was a junior in high school. That comment changed the course of my life.”

– Paola Mendoza-Yu, AIGA LA Vice President

“I was lucky enough to have access to the tools and information necessary to embrace a comment like Mr. Suarez-Pierra’s. However, growing up in South Central Los Angeles that level of access was, and unfortunately still is an anomaly. I’m excited about this partnership having a hand in changing that.” Continues Paola.

AIGA Los Angeles over the past year has been evolving to become an organization committed to addressing issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) that impact people in our community. As shared during our annual Town Hall in February, the board of directors and leadership of the chapter has made significant progress towards ensuring that its leadership is reflective of the community it serves.

“‘God forbid my child has to go to public school.’ I remembered hearing this from one of my senior colleagues in my early intern days and that statement always stuck with me. Are these the people who are hiring the future generation of creatives? I’m a result of going to public school and within LA Unified—Should I tell them I went to public school?” said Jean Pongsai, current AIGA LA Membership Director and outgoing Education Director. “When LAUSD approached AIGA Los Angeles for a partnership it was beyond exciting but also alleviating to know that LAUSD students will have opportunities to get early access to better understanding their potential career choices. As a child of immigrant parents, we often hear the classic worries and concerns of pursuing a non-traditional job and the fear of instability. In times when my parents weren’t able to trust the direction of my future, my LAUSD teachers were strong supporters to guide my career journey—From Mr. McKinney giving me watercolor supplies, Mrs. Cooper-Marquez entering my work into a contest and driving me to accept the award, Mr. Ingram for advocating to our principal to not remove me from school due to zip codes and so many more unmentioned heroes, the LAUSD partnership is bridging the gap for so many students to connect, feel supported in their career paths, and see the potential touchpoint to being able to achieve that creative career goal.”

“Growing up, I was always very artistic and knew I wanted a creative career. But as a first generation college student, I also felt a lot of pressure to choose a stable and practical career. When I learned about graphic design, I knew it was the perfect career for me and I feel fortunate for all the opportunities my career has created. I’m excited to pass the torch to the next generation of designers through this LAUSD partnership and hope that AIGA LA inspires students to pursue creative careers,” said Jaz Infante, AIGA LA Education Director.

The potential of design to create a better future is only realized when we include all voices. Design can be powerful in improving the lives of people and, with that, we as an industry have a responsibility to ensure we are practicing ethical, equitable and inclusive design. This outreach engagement is part of new programs including offering continuous education and professional development that advances more equitable and ethical practices in the profession.

“Coming from Immigrant parents, I knew early on the sacrifices my parents and grandparents made to ensure I could have a good education. Each generation works hard so that the next generation has the opportunity to do better than they did. When I pursued a career in design, I came to learn that design can positively impact people’s lives. My hopes are that our work in AIGA and my career will set the next generation up to achieve more than I could,” said Sam Cabrera, AIGA LA President. “These students will be leaders and a vital part of solving the biggest challenges of today. Together, AIGA LA and LA Unified teachers can help students and their families see potential in a career that shapes the future.”

“Design is personal for individuals and communities, so I find it critical to include all voices and talents to spread a better understanding of our nation (and world). Being inclusive gives audiences insight into other cultures,” said Andrew Pak, Work-based Learning Coordinator, AME LA Unified.“The design field is a growing industry and UX/UI Design are high-paying careers that are currently not being showcased in underrepresented communities. I want our young designers to pursue their passion while earning enough to provide for their families.”

Before the end of the school year, AIGA LA facilitated 2 successful engagements: (1) an introduction to user experience/user interface design with Matthew Carlson, Director of User Experience Design, Creative Cloud at Adobe,; and (2) a workshop on journey mapping with Gintel Gee, Senior Product Designer at Carbon Five. Thanks to the success of these engagements the AME program is moving to incorporate these topics into the curriculum. These volunteers and many more have signed up to continue offering engagements like these throughout the new school year.

Alexander Valerio, High School Graphic Design Student, shared that, “Ever since I was exposed to Graphic Design and Digital Art/Media, I felt I had found the perfect way to express myself. From the satisfactory cleanliness achievable through graphic design, to the form, and the function of the design, I had a new purpose to society that was fulfilling to it, and myself. Graphic design is purposeful, and is the ultimate form of expression broadening new paths you never knew existed.”

“I have seen a change in students who take the initiative to participate in hands-on career opportunities, offered through the academy and district. In particular, I am reminded of one of my current juniors, an immigrant student who entered our school pathway and joined the LAUSD internship. She has become not only a model student in the classroom but has developed stronger agency and self-identity through her experiences,” said Gabriela Rosillo, CTE Graphic Design Teacher & Academy Coordinator, Academy of Art and Technology.

This is just the start of AIGA LA and LA Unified’s meaningful partnership and we look forward to sharing more exciting news as we engage and support the future of design.

How can you help us in our mission?

keep up to date with AIGA Los Angeles events that help fund programs like these on our newsletter, Instagram, L inkedin, and TikTok.
Want to volunteer to help us or know someone who would? Contact us at lausd@aigala.org!
Consider donating to AIGA LA. Your donations make a difference in what we’re able to achieve by providing valuable resources to grow. All charitable contributions to AIGA LA are tax-deductible to the extent the tax code allows. AIGA LA’s U.S. federal tax ID is 95-2080216.

About AIGA Los Angeles

AIGA Los Angeles is a volunteer-run, voluntary membership 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for the design community in Los Angeles. We are one of the largest amongst 70+ sibling chapter organizations in the nation. AIGA LA was founded in 1983 by influential designers who have shaped our industry, a legacy that we take very seriously — our city and community is the destination for anyone aspiring to create no matter where they came from.

About AIGA

AIGA, the professional association for design, advances design as a professional craft, strategic advantage, and vital cultural force. As the largest community of design advocates, AIGA brings together practitioners, enthusiasts, and patrons to amplify the voice of design and creates the vision for a collective future. AIGA defines global standards and ethical practices, guides design education, inspires designers and the public, enhances professional development, and makes powerful tools and resources accessible to all. Learn more at aiga.org.

About the Artist

The artwork by Camilo Bejarano was commissioned by AIGA LA for this press release.

Statement from the artist: “My name is Camilo Bejarano, I’m a designer & illustrator based in Los Angeles, California. I moved to the US in 1996 from Bogota, Colombia. And after living in different cities in Florida and New York, I now call Los Angeles my home. Where I live along with my family.

I am a self-taught artist. I started my career after founding a screen printing studio where I picked up illustration and design skills. Since, I’ve worked with amazing brands and studios like AofL, Buck, Disney, Facebook, Google, TheLittleLabs, and more…I was very excited that AIGA LA reached out and I didn’t think twice to collaborate in such a great initiative to support and inspire the future of design. Thanks to Paola and Sam!”

You can find more of Camilo’s work on his website.

2026 AIGA LA Board of Directors Nominations

AIGA Los Angeles — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:57:28 +0000

JOIN THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OPEN ENROLLMENT

Applications/Nominations accepted now through 11:59PM, Thursday, April 30

The AIGA Los Angeles Board of Directors is a dynamic group of passionate individuals elected by YOU, our members, to lead and champion the creative community! Each board member is dedicated to making decisions that benefit the greater good, ensuring that AIGA LA thrives and fulfills its mission. The board meets every month to brainstorm, plan, and vote on exciting chapter activities. Our board members are committed to making an impact and keeping the creativity flowing! Each board member is elected to serve a two-year term.

AIGA LA thrives because of our amazing community of designers—and it’s all thanks to the incredible volunteers who pour their time and skills into making it happen! Now, it’s your turn to join the action. Check out the open positions below and apply to be part of the fun!

Board of Director Positions: Per our bylaws, AIGA membership is required. (Note: Membership is not required when you apply but is required once voted in.)

HOW TO APPLY / SUBMIT A NOMINATION:

Submit a letter of intent: Please submit a one-page letter of intent explaining why you (or the person you are nominating) are interested in the role and what skills make you (or them) qualified.
Resume: Submit the nominee’s current resume and contact information.
Two references: May be from current or former supervisors and/or colleagues.
Save the Date: Qualified nominees will be contacted to be interviewed by the Nominations Committee. Nominees are asked to be available for a scheduled virtual/phone interview with the Nominations Committee between now and May 5th.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

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OPEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR POSITIONS FOR 2026–2028

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCES

Start/End Date: June 1, 2026 – May 31, 2028
As an officer of the Board of Directors, the Vice President of Finances ensures fiscal responsibility for the chapter and transparency of finances to board members.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Maintains monthly oversight of chapter accounts and financial reports.
Develops financial projections and budgets for sustaining and growing chapter finances.
Ensures required financial forms and paperwork are organized and filed to relevant parties.

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

loves numbers and spreadsheets – especially formulas.
can easily break down a budget into terms everyone can understand.
has an eye for detail.
enjoys working in a creative environment.
believes transparency is the best policy.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

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OPEN DIRECTOR POSITIONS FOR 2026–2028

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Start/End Date: June 1, 2026 – May 31, 2028
Facilitates financial support for the chapter through sponsorships, grants, and fundraising initiatives that directly sustain programming and member experiences. This role focuses on building the systems, materials, and opportunities that make funding possible, and actionable.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Produce and maintain pitch decks and guidelines for sponsorships, partnerships, and affiliations.
Secure sponsorships for programming initiatives, including identifying opportunities and developing tailored sponsorship asks.
Research, apply for, and support grant opportunities that align with chapter goals and initiatives.
Lead special initiatives and recruit volunteers to support grant writing, fundraising efforts, and scholarship development.

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

is proactive and strategic in identifying funding opportunities that support community impact.
can translate ideas and programs into compelling sponsorship and grant narratives.
is organized and motivated to move opportunities from concept to secured support.
thrives in building the infrastructure that enables sustainable growth.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION & ACCESSIBILITY (DEIA) DIRECTOR

Start/End Date: June 1, 2026 – May 31, 2028
Seek, build, and sustain intentional and diverse relationships that create a more inclusive design environment. Defines goals for the chapter’s DEIA initiatives and creates actionable strategies to help achieve them.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Develops initiatives that move diversity, equity and inclusion forward.
Ensures all programming has a component of DEIA included in it.

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

has self-awareness of your own biases and privileges.
constantly learning and improving yourself, while sharing your learnings with others.
demonstrates listening and communication skills to empower intercultural communications and collaboration.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

PARTNERSHIPS DIRECTOR

Start/End Date: June 1, 2026 – May 31, 2028
Builds and nurtures meaningful relationships between AIGA LA and aligned organizations, brands, and community leaders. This role focuses on connection, visibility, and long-term collaboration that strengthens the chapter’s presence and impact.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop and maintain CRM (Customer Relationship Management) documents for contacts, partners, and community resources.
Attend programming events to actively engage with community leaders and identify opportunities for deeper collaboration.
Build and steward relationships with partners, sponsors, and aligned organizations.
Identify and connect with brands that align with AIGA LA’s mission, values, and community.

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

is a natural connector who builds trust and cultivates authentic relationships.
understands the value of community presence and shows up with intention.
can identify alignment between AIGA LA and potential partners or collaborators.
enjoys creating long-term, mutually beneficial relationships that extend beyond single events.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

ABOUT AIGA LA

Founded in 1914 as the American Institute of Graphic Arts, AIGA is now known simply as “AIGA, the professional association for design. In 1983, a group of influential designers in Los Angeles formed AIGA Los Angeles. We are a 501(c)(3) non profit organization whose purpose is to advance design as a professional craft, strategic advantage and vital cultural force. We seek to provide leadership in the exchange of ideas and information, to encourage critical analysis and research and to advance education and ethical practices for the design community of Los Angeles. We seek to connect, inspire, and support all design professionals throughout the arc of their careers.

We do this through programs that seek to support designers with events, workshops, learning opportunities, and networking.

We believe that as an organization we should reflect the community we serve with diversity of professional backgrounds, experience levels, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability statuses, and nationality.

The AIGA Los Angeles Board of Directors are the governing body elected by its members, which holds the association in trust for AIGA LA’s community. Each board member is elected to serve the public good and act in the best interest of the organization and help fulfill its mission. The board of directors meet monthly to report, determine, and vote on chapter activities. Each board member is elected to serve two-year terms.

Board of Director Positions: Per our bylaws, AIGA membership is required. (Note: Membership is not required when you apply but is required once voted in.)

Thank you in advance for your nominations! AIGA LA owes its success to the talented members of our board and our volunteers. We are grateful for your interest!

If you have additional questions, please contact us at: nominations@aigala.org.

All nominations will be presented to the 2026 Nominations Committee, which will meet and determine a recommended slate of directors to present to the membership-at-large for approval. Nominees need not be an AIGA member at the time of nomination but will be required to join AIGA as a member if elected to a board position.

2025 AIGA LA Incoming Board of Directors Announcement

AIGA Los Angeles — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 04:52:59 +0000

AIGA LA is your professional organization for design, and YOU voted!

Your voices were heard last week. Thank you to all our members who voted on the 2025 Board of Directors Slate. Your new board representatives are below. But don’t think that’s the last opportunity to speak up. If you want to get involved, share ideas, ask questions, or simply play a bigger role in design in L.A., please get in touch with us. As a nearly entirely volunteer-run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, we’re here to serve the design community and we need all the voices (and hands!) we can get. If you’re interested in volunteering, let us know and get involved.

Congratulations to our new and very dedicated leaders below. Please introduce yourself to them at the next AIGA LA event. And last but not least, thank you to our outgoing board members who have served, worked, and ideated all in your name for the past two (and sometimes even more) years. We give a heartfelt round of applause and gratitude to those whose terms are now complete.

INCOMING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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PRESIDENT ELECT
Joseph Soto

Joseph Soto is the Director, Art and Brand at Nickerson, where he leads the firm’s award-winning creative team and oversees visual identity, branding, and creative strategy for its diverse client-partners. With over 15 years of experience, Joseph brings deep expertise in design, brand development, and creative direction. He also led the expansion of Nickerson’s presence to the West Coast, launching and growing its Los Angeles office. Joseph is a graduate of MassArt and an active participant in LA’s creative community.
LinkedIn Profile

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VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
Lacye Beauregard

Lacye Beauregard is an award-winning conceptual designer and visual storyteller from Louisiana, currently residing in the Greater Los Angeles Area. Bringing nine years of agency experience to the table, she has an extensive portfolio with a wide range of work including but not limited to product design, illustration, apparel design, brand campaigns, web design, and social media campaigns. Lacye pushes the envelope of creativity, and strives to maintain a confident and professional work decorum.
LinkedIn Profile

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DIRECTOR POSITIONS

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EDUCATION DIRECTOR
Renée McKellar

As the Founder and Creative Director of Peace and Balance LLC, Renée McKellar specializes in crafting visually compelling and culturally resonant branding solutions for businesses looking to stand out in a crowded market. With a passion for elevating brands, she blends strategy, design, and marketing to create experiences that leave lasting impressions. Beyond her work in branding and marketing, Renée serves as Adjunct Faculty in Graphic & Multimedia Design at College of the Canyons, where she guides the next generation of designers in developing their creative voice and technical expertise. With years of experience in both agency and entrepreneurial settings, Renée brings a unique perspective that fuses real-world application with industry best practices.
LinkedIn Profile

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MARKETING DIRECTOR
Nolan Havig

Nolan is a multimedia designer, educator, and community advocate based in Los Angeles where he leads creative strategy across digital, print, and social platforms. With a strong background in branding, storytelling, and emerging technologies, he brings a thoughtful, inclusive approach to design and communication. Passionate about education, mentorship, and access, Nolan is committed to amplifying diverse voices, supporting student engagement, and building bridges between industry professionals and emerging creatives.
LinkedIn Profile

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MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Tia Clements

Tia has built a global career in visual storytelling and thinking, shaped by a graphic design degree and work across four countries. She has led creative and brand strategy teams at Adobe, directed campaigns for luxury and fashion brands, and brings sharp insight into cultural impact and how visual language drives emotional connection. Whether she’s building a brand, mentoring a team, or contributing to LA’s creative community through the LA Design Festival and Creative Mornings, Tia brings curiosity, clarity, and a spirit of collaboration to everything she does.
LinkedIn Profile

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PROGRAMMING DIRECTOR
Olivia Leese

Olivia Leese, Lead Graphic Designer at Nickerson, brings 8+ years of experience crafting visually compelling narratives for brands. Her multifaceted expertise spans branding, print, digital, and social, creating cohesive visual experiences across platforms. Olivia has spearheaded high-impact projects for industry leaders like Synergy, Housing Families, and JM Electrical. Notable achievements include developing a winning proposal for MassDOT's Parcel 24 project and playing a vital role in Gulf Oil's new brand image rollout across New England. With a BA from Roger Williams University, Olivia consistently pushes the boundaries of visual communication.
LinkedIn Profile

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SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Shijia (Bella) Luo

Shijia Luo is a versatile visual designer blending 2D and 3D with expertise in branding, typography, and motion. With over five years of experience across print, digital, and interactive media, she communicates through thoughtful visual storytelling. Her multidisciplinary background in marketing and design supports her engagement with local creative communities, including SFMOMA, the San Francisco Art Book Fair, and AIGA LA. Shijia sees design as a path to connect people and share stories, and she seeks to contribute more meaningfully to reflect diverse cultural perspectives.
LinkedIn Profile

OUTGOING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
Hannah Richard

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VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCES
Courtnie Cotillo

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MARKETING DIRECTOR
Rachel Esteffe

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PROGRAMMING DIRECTOR
Amanda Powell

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SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Maggie Hollander

2025 AIGA LA Board of Directors Slate Ratification

AIGA Los Angeles — Sat, 24 May 2025 00:41:50 +0000

AIGA LA is pleased to recommend for your consideration the following slate of candidates for the 2025–2027 Board of Directors. If elected, each nominee will serve a two-year term. Only current members of AIGA Los Angeles are permitted to vote, and your membership number will be required. 10% of the membership as a whole will determine the vote. Please see below for your list of incoming candidates for the AIGA Los Angeles Board.

CAST YOUR VOTE

Voting was closed on 11:59 PM on Saturday, 6/07/2025

If you need help with casting your vote, please contact us at admin@aigala.org.

2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS SLATE

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR POSITIONS

PRESIDENT ELECT
Joseph Soto

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
Lacye Beauregard

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DIRECTOR POSITIONS

EDUCATION DIRECTOR
Renée McKellar

MARKETING DIRECTOR
Nolan Havig

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Tia Clements

PROGRAMMING DIRECTOR
Olivia Leese

Olivia Leese, Lead Graphic Designer at Nickerson, brings 7+ years of experience crafting visually compelling narratives for brands. Her multifaceted expertise spans branding, print, digital, and social, creating cohesive visual experiences across platforms. Olivia has spearheaded high-impact projects for industry leaders like Synergy, Housing Families, and JM Electrical. Notable achievements include developing a winning proposal for MassDOT's Parcel 24 project and playing a vital role in Gulf Oil's new brand image rollout across New England. With a BA from Roger Williams University, Olivia consistently pushes the boundaries of visual communication.
LinkedIn Profile

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Shijia (Bella) Luo

2025 AIGA LA Board of Directors Nominations

AIGA Los Angeles — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 03:17:02 +0000

JOIN THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OPEN ENROLLMENT

Applications/Nominations accepted now through 11:59PM, Monday, May 5

The AIGA Los Angeles Board of Directors is a dynamic group of passionate individuals elected by YOU, our members, to lead and champion the creative community! Each board member is dedicated to making decisions that benefit the greater good, ensuring that AIGA LA thrives and fulfills its mission. The board meets every month to brainstorm, plan, and vote on exciting chapter activities. Each board member is elected to serve a two-year term and are committed to making an impact and keeping the creativity flowing!

AIGA LA flourishes because of our amazing community of designers—and it’s all thanks to the incredible volunteers who pour their time and skills into making it happen! Now, it’s your turn to join the action. Check out the open positions below and apply to be part of the fun!

Board of Director Positions: Per our bylaws, AIGA membership is required. (Note: Membership is not required when you apply but is required once voted in.)

HOW TO APPLY / SUBMIT A NOMINATION:

Submit a letter of intent: Please submit a one-page letter of intent explaining why you (or the person you are nominating) are interested in the role and what skills make you (or them) qualified.
Resume: Submit the nominee’s current resume and contact information.
Two references: May be from current or former supervisors and/or colleagues.
Save the Date: Qualified nominees will be contacted to be interviewed by the Nominations Committee. Nominees are asked to be available for a scheduled virtual/phone interview with the Nominations Committee between now and May 12th.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

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OPEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR POSITIONS FOR 2025–2027

PRESIDENT ELECT

Start/End Date: June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2027
The President Elect works closely with the incumbent President, performs similar duties as requested, and is an ex-officio member of all committees. They encompass the skill set, characteristics, and responsibilities as defined in the President role.

The President Elect must successfully complete their one-year term before becoming the chapter President the following year.

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCES

Start/End Date: June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2027
As an officer of the Board of Directors, the Vice President of Finances ensures fiscal responsibility for the chapter and transparency of finances to board members.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Maintains monthly oversight of chapter accounts and financial reports
Develops financial projections and budgets for sustaining and growing chapter finances
Ensures required financial forms and paperwork are organized and filed to relevant parties

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

loves numbers and spreadsheets – especially formulas.
can easily break down a budget into terms everyone can understand.
has an eye for detail.
enjoys working in a creative environment.
believes transparency is the best policy.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Start/End Date: June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2027
Ensures the official board business is conducted efficiently and correctly, creating processes to streamline chapter affairs.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Serves on the executive board with the President, VP of Finances and helps enable the board to meet the executive team’s strategic vision
Is the recordkeeper for all of AIGA LA’s books, records, and papers
Ensures accurate accounts and records of all of our chapter activities and that that proper notice is given for all meetings and important events
Helps the board and volunteers achieve our mission and programs by leading the planning, overseeing progress, and ensuring teams have the resources they need
Develops guidelines for chapter project documentation and resource management
Reviews bylaws annually to ensure proper procedures are being followed and initiating the process to update when necessary

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

loves motivating people to do their best work.
is eager to give back to the design community.
enjoys planning, overseeing, and leading projects from ideation through completion collaboratively with a team.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

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OPEN DIRECTOR POSITIONS FOR 2025–2027

EDUCATION DIRECTOR

Start/End Date: June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2027
Supports and creates engagement between board members and educators, student groups and chapters, young designers, and educational programs around the city.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Produces and maintains important resources for emerging designers and students on education programs available
Produces portfolio review events and mentorship opportunities
Develops resources to assist emerging designers in their career and support graduates and designers in transition from education to the profession

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

enjoys creating relationships and making connections with other designers in the community.
finds joy in connecting people together along their career paths.
has the ability and desire to network across school districts, universities, and non-traditional learning paths to bridge the design education community across Los Angeles.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Start/End Date: June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2027
The Marketing Director is responsible for promoting our programs and activities through its collateral, website, newsletter, press releases, and additional marketing efforts of our campaigns. This role leads the team of volunteers and works collaboratively with other board roles.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Develops marketing and communication strategies to ensure the success of our programs and events
Evolves our branding and maintains our standards
Defines and oversees website development and upkeep
Provides support for and advice on metrics of success for Content, Social Media, and Marketing strategies
Prepare committee reports monthly to share with the board on our marketing efforts.

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

loves being hands-on as well as delegating tasks to our team of volunteers and staff.
understands the importance of strategic marketing & communication to getting out a broader message.
understands how to reach the diverse communities of Los Angeles.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Start/End Date: June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2027
Facilitates membership and community engagement through outreach campaigns, member highlights, and listening tours. You will facilitate membership recruitment and retention strategies while ensuring equal access and outreach for members and non-members.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Produces the annual Town Hall event
Connects with new and lapsed Members, Student Groups, and Group Members
Creates monthly membership reports and community engagement reports, to inform chapter programs and content
Collaborate with other board members to share feedback and improve our member experience

Plans social events and networking opportunities for our community to connect with one another

Engages with prospective members and share the benefits of membership

Collaborates with the programming director, DEI Director, and Education to create new opportunities to engage the community.

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

enjoys building relationships with others and inviting people from the community.
is an ambassador for AIGA LA and our mission at AIGA LA Events and beyond.
loves connecting and helping people grow.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

PROGRAMMING DIRECTOR

Start/End Date: June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2027
Implements the annual program schedule and calendar (developed by the board), reflecting the vision and mission of the chapter to meet the needs of its members.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Plans and produces our events, workshops, and continuous education programs based on the calendar
Makes connections and outreach across our creative community to help develop the content for our programs
Works collaboratively with marketing, content, social, and other volunteers to execute events
Develops the program schedule within budget and in collaboration with development director and treasurer

Works with membership director to get feedback and improve our programs

Prepares committee reports monthly to share with the board on our program efforts & status

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

enjoys making connections and creating an enriching, welcoming, and inspiring experience.
is organized and is collaborative in planning.
curious and enjoys thinking creatively about how a topic or subject might be explored.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR

Start/End Date: June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2027
Promotes the events and initiatives of AIGA Los Angeles, it’s sponsors, and affiliates on all of our social channels.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop & maintain calendar and schedule for social media campaigns
Produce social media guidelines & standards for content, marketing, and sponsorship
Create copy & assets for social media posts
Works closely with the Marketing & Content Directors
Create monthly reports on engagement and alignment with chapter vision

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

enjoys engaging with creatives through various social channels.
has proficient copywriting skills.
stays up to date regarding the latest social media trends and best practices.
is a team player, working collaboratively with the Marketing and Content teams to ensure content is informative and appealing.

SUBMIT A NOMINATION / APPLY HERE

ABOUT AIGA LA

We do this through programs that seek to support designers with events, workshops, learning opportunities, and networking.

Board of Director Positions: Per our bylaws, AIGA membership is required. (Note: Membership is not required when you apply but is required once voted in.)

Thank you in advance for your nominations! AIGA LA owes its success to the talented members of our board and our volunteers. We are grateful for your interest!

If you have additional questions, please contact us at: nominations@aigala.org.

All nominations will be presented to the 2025 Nominations Committee, which will meet and determine a recommended slate of directors to present to the membership-at-large for approval. Nominees need not be an AIGA member at the time of nomination but will be required to join AIGA as a member if elected to a board position.

Call for Designers: Design the Identity for the 2025 AIGA National Conference

Julie Manthey — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 22:00:41 +0000

AIGA Los Angeles has been given the unique opportunity to commission one of our local designers to develop the brand identity for the 2025 AIGA National Conference which will be hosted in Los Angeles.

Portfolio submissions will be accepted between December 9 at 8:00pm to December 18 at 11:59pm PST.

Please review the timeline below and make sure that you are available to complete any design work we may hire you for during the designated time frame.

Note that any proposed designs, samples, or spec work submitted in response to this form will immediately disqualify your application. AIGA Los Angeles does not support unpaid work and would never ask for unique design submissions without providing compensation. At this time, we are only looking to gather an inventory of folks who are interested (individuals, firms, or teams can apply) and to review your existing work and portfolio.

Our selection committee will review applications and accompanying portfolios, and will follow up to communicate whether you’ve been selected to submit a proposal design to be presented to the AIGA National event team.

If selected to propose design direction(s), this will be a paid job.

SUBMIT YOUR PORTFOLIO / APPLY HERE

TIMELINE

PHASE I: Initial Portfolio Gathering

- December 9 to December 18
- Portfolio submissions are not paid
- Spec work will be disqualified
- Will accept qualifications from individuals, firms, or teams

PHASE II: Review of Submitted Portfolios and Selection(s)

- December 20 – 21: Notifications of selection / award

PHASE III: Concept Development Period

- December 23 to January 6
- Designer(s) will be compensated at a fixed rate for work produced
- Rate to be determined by number of finalists selected (up to three)

PHASE IV: Concept Development Period

- January 6 (possible design adjustments may be requested in the following 48 hours)
- January 9: the local design committee will present final selected concepts to national event committee

PHASE V: Concept Development Period

- January 14: Winning design direction and finalist will be notified
- 10 days to prepare final assets

Submit to AIGA National for Launch

- January 23

SUBMIT YOUR PORTFOLIO / APPLY HERE

Artwork created by Alexis Caban

2024 AIGA LA Board of Directors Slate Ratification

AIGA Los Angeles — Thu, 23 May 2024 02:59:44 +0000

AIGA LA is pleased to recommend for your consideration the following slate of candidates for the 2024–2026 Board of Directors. If elected, each nominee will serve a two-year term. Only current members of AIGA Los Angeles are permitted to vote, and your membership number will be required. 10% of the membership as a whole will determine the vote. Please see below for your list of incoming candidates for the AIGA Los Angeles Board.

CAST YOUR VOTE

Voting was closed at 11:59 PM on Sunday, 6/09/2024

If you need help with casting your vote, please contact us at nominations@aigala.org.

2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS SLATE

—

DIRECTOR POSITIONS

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Alexis Caban

Alexis Elisa Cabán is a proud New Yorker living in LA. She is currently a Senior Art Director at OUTFRONT Media, a leading media company that specializes in out-of-home (OOH) advertising. Alexis has more than 15 years of experience in design and proudly brings her culture and perspective to her work at both large and small companies. Alexis currently leads the development of standout, award-winning campaigns for local and national clients in different industries. She’s also a co-founder of UnidosFRONT, a Hispanic employee resource group that aims to elevate the voices of OUTFRONT’s Hispanic employees and allies.

Alexis holds a BFA in Graphic Design and Advertising from the School of Visual Arts and a UX Design Immersive Bootcamp certificate from General Assembly. She is passionate about typography, illustration, branding systems, research, and UX design. She also runs her own freelance design business, where she creates one-of-a-kind branding systems, websites, marketing materials and more, for a variety of clients. She is fluent in Spanish and has won multiple awards for her creative work, including an Addy for the Greater San Francisco Ad Club, OBIE and Think LA.

Prior to working at OUTFRONT, she spent over 6 years as an Art Director for the Branded Entertainment team at Macy’s where she art directed award winning creative campaigns for Macy’s national, annual & special events.
LinkedIn Profile

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION (DEI) DIRECTOR

Michelle Leclerc

Michelle Leclerc is a Chilean-American graphic designer, illustrator, data visualist, and educator whose work focuses on social justice and representation. Michelle’s design company Leclerc advocates that agencies create work that is reflective of the communities they serve. This means designing for an audience that is diverse in identity, gender, race, ethnicity, and ability. She also serves as Creative Director at Sawyer Agency, a full-service studio that designs visuals that are aesthetically pleasing, effective and impactful.

Social equity, inclusion, and activism are major aspects of Michelle’s work. She has developed design and data visualization for activist organizations like Yale’s Justice Collaboratory, Be a Hero, and Freedom Reads. In 2016, Michelle led the data visualization and design of Campaign Zero’s Police Union Contracts report. The organization’s data-based approach to activism is the subject of a new documentary, Making of an Activist on Hulu and Disney +. In 2017, she created the data visualization for Elizabeth Warren’s book, This Fight is Our Fight. In 2019, on behalf of Campaign Zero, she led the data visualization for the first police scorecard in the US, which sought to identify urgent issues surrounding police accountability and propose best-practice solutions. In 2022, her work was recognized by Latinas in Tech in partnership with Korbel California Champagne, who named her one of 30 Luminarias in the STEM fields.

Now, Michelle passes on her passion for statistical narratives to future generations through her instruction in infographic design at Tyler School of Art in Temple University and her substack, Statistic it to ’em!
LinkedIn Profile

AIGA LA, Public Design Education and the Future

AIGA Los Angeles — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 23:06:13 +0000

In 2022, AIGA LA began a partnership with the California Department of Education’s Arts, Media and Entertainment Career Technical Education (CTE-AME) Industry Sector. The CTE-AME sector develops programs that improve training for those in emerging careers and helps administer relevant and future-proof workforce training. A complete breakdown of this initiative and the extensive list of work this group does can be found here.

As our various industries grow and change, design has become a foundation for the success of business, creativity, innovation and development. It is more important than ever to use this time of change to create a more equitable, diverse and inclusive design profession that stands up to the challenges of those who will live in it.

With this in mind, AIGA LA formed an advisory group of thought leaders, educators and historically underrepresented professionals in the design world to discuss and develop what skills our future creatives need to thrive. We’re incredibly pleased with the fire and passion of this group, who developed new curriculum standards that develop critical thinking and rigorous empathy in design. At this point of publication, these standards are now being used in 30+ California state schools as well as being shared and implemented in education curriculum across Washington and Oregon states.

We want to highlight a few* of these foundations that will guide the future:

Design Skill Building

Use accessible design practices, considering the needs of people with different abilities.

Design Process and Practice

Explore different approaches to solving design problems and evaluate what makes each approach effective.
Read and interpret a project brief and generate multiple relevant concepts.
Write an effective proposal for a client, including pricing, relevant case studies and work samples.
Contribute to a comprehensive design project in a professional environment.
Monitor project milestones and deliverables and create project status presentations.

Design Career Exploration

Explore career pathways in packaging, publication, and graphic design, interactive design including UX and UI, web design, product design, system, and information design, branding design, advertising, and digital marketing.

Design: Impact

Understand the environmental impact of design and how to create with sustainability in mind.
Use design and creative problem solving for the greater good, while resolving or communicating issues within local communities.
Design a solution for a community need or problem.

*(An extensive list can be found here in the new curriculum standards.)

In 2024, AIGA LA will continue this work with industry integration in mind. In this process, we have laid the foundation of what skills and tools are necessary to learn to become a designer. Now, we are seeking real life examples of what those careers may look like – to empower a future of designers, emerging in their own careers and finding pathways they may have never imagined before.

We are inspired to create sustainable and repeatable efforts with partners or individuals that will:

Bring awareness to careers in design
Empower education and learning throughout every stage of the design career
Provide mentorship and opportunities to make connections with industry professionals
Explore apprenticeships and opportunities for structured, paid, on the job training
Give access and transparency to the design industry
Provide healthy employment opportunities

At this time, we have partners like the Adobe design team, who have hosted a Design Career Speaker Series from September 2023 – May 2024. Anyone can register to attend or replay a 45 minute session geared towards students to learn more about their unique design paths, work and passions.

As well, we’re excited to share that we are developing a new mentorship program that will partner industry professionals with emerging designers to help guide them in a competitive marketplace. More info will be shared soon.

We would like to thank the following for their commitment, dedication and passion as a reminder that it takes a few daring people to do a few daring things, to enact real and lasting change.

AIGA LA + CTE-AME Advisory Group 2022–2023

Sean Bacon, Professor of Graphic Design, San Diego City College
Love Beach, VP of Creative Strategy, Blavity Inc.
Anne Bown-Crawford, Principal Artist in Residence, Google
Inez S. Bush, Assistant Dean of Extension, Otis College of Art and Design
Matthew Carlson, Director of UX Design, Education, Fonts and Fresco
Min Choi, Professor of Graphic Design, MiraCosta College
David Dylan-Thomas, Founder & CEO, David Dylan Thomas, LLC
Allison Frenzel, Education Programs Specialist, California Dept. of Education
Nick Gawith, SVP, Executive Creative Director, Razorfish
Erika Hall, Co-Founder Mule Design
Ariba Jahan, Director of Product and Innovation, Ad Council
Dr. Amarpal Khanna, LA City College
MaeLin Levine, President, AIGA San Diego
Mike Monteiro, Co-Founder + Design Director Mule Design
Andrew Pak, Grants Coordinator, Los Angeles Unified School District
Jean “JP” Pongsai, AIGA LA, Founder Studio DBJ
Renee Reid, Sr. Manager, UX Design Research, LinkedIn
Louis Sandhaus, Faculty, Cal Arts, Founder/Co-Director, The People’s Graphic Design Archive
Aisha Sims, Senior Manager, Intuit
Tacy Trowbridge, Global Education Lead for Thought Leadership and Advocacy, Adobe
Dori Tunstall, Dean, Ontario College of Art and Design
Dawn Zidonis, Executive Director, SF Design Week

Artwork designed by Marina Murad

AIGA Student Groups Empower LGBTQ+ Youth

AIGA Los Angeles — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 20:46:15 +0000

Cal Poly Pomona kicked off their 5th annual Design for Good Marathon, with their largest non-profit organization to date, It Gets Better. In 24 hours, these students made activations that elevate the social, physical and experiential organization, with a mission to empower LGBTQ+ youth.

It Gets Better is a globally recognized non-profit organization that provides opportunities to learn, discover and better understand the queer experience. The non-profit empowers youth with opportunities to connect with other like-minded individuals and provides programming and grants to form projects that make public schools more inclusive.

Students organized themselves into five teams to create various improvements to the It Gets Better experience. This work spans the gamut of content design, social templates, trade show booths, motion graphics, activation spaces, collateral and digital assets that allow for a fuller range of expression. You may find the work they did on platforms such as Youtube, Instagram, Twitch and TIkTok.

We are incredibly proud of the work they have accomplished in a short amount of time. This work was made possible by the help of the Los Angeles Design Community, AIGA LA, AIGA Cal Poly Pomona leadership team, Jennifer Avila, Jasmine Jeanine Guevara, Jade Krystle Campos, Dom Almario, Tyrell Keon Malonzo, Taz Alamillo, Lauren Ussery, Cal Poly Pomona’s Associate Professor, Anthony Acock, and all the student designers that made this happen.

Design for Good is a growing AIGA LA initiative that focuses on social change through the lens of design. In past years, we have supported programs that seek to enhance the life of immigrants (Creative Jam 2019) to groups like Project Sister (Crisis and Family Counseling Organization), and Undocumented Student Services (Cal Poly Pomona). We hope to continue this work in coming years with more non-profits and programs.

Historically, Cal Poly Pomona’s 24 hour design marathon was modeled closely after the AIGA student group’s similar annual event, Creative Engine, hosted each year at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg Missouri (UCMO). By working closely off of UCMO’s precedent the team was able to put together an event that not only created a large body of portfolio worthy work in a short amount of time, but also was achievable and for good causes near and dear to the student population.

Celebrating the life of LA Design Legend Michael “Mick” Hodgson

AIGA Los Angeles — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 19:15:17 +0000

AIGA Los Angeles and the LA design community sadly mourns the loss of our mentor, friend, and design hero — Michael “Mick” Hodgson.

Michael “Mick” Hodgson 1952 – 2023

Internationally renowned designer and fellow Los Angeles design leader, Michael “Mick” Hodgson, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2023 at his home in Venice, CA at the age of 71.

Michael was born on March 15, 1952 in London, England, studied at Saint Martin’s School of Art in London and graduated from Brighton College of Art in 1974. After graduation, he began his career as a graphic designer at Harpers & Queen under the legendary Willie Landels, and served as art director until 1979, when he moved to Los Angeles to start his own design firm.

In 1988, Michael founded Ph.D, A Design Office with Clive Piercy. Inspired by Paul Smith and Steve McQueen, his style was both tasteful and bold which earned international recognition.

From 2004–2006, Michael served as President of the Los Angeles Chapter of AIGA, The Professional Association for Design. In 2007, he was a recipient of the AIGA LA Fellows Award, the highest honor awarded by the chapter.

A keen cyclist who had a passion for the cycling community, he once followed the Tour de France for a year and a half and helped publish a book called The Greatest Race with photographer Mike Powell.

Michael will be remembered as a mentor, friend, and as a design hero for his creative work including environmental design and signage, visual identity and branding, art direction and print.

He is survived by his wife, Gill Hodgson, and his three beautiful daughters, Lily, Maudie Rae, and Lucie.

A memorial for Michael Hodgson will be held at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles on July 9, 2023 at 12:30pm.

Over the course of his career, Michael’s work played a key role elevating the Los Angeles design scene to the international stage. In addition to his vast body of work that spanned from Fortune 500 companies, leading architects and innovators, to cultural institutions, the AIGA LA Chapter will always remember and celebrate him for his remarkable dedication and generosity to our community. Our hearts go out to Michael’s wife, family, associates and friends. They are in our thoughts and we send them our condolences.

Sadly and respectfully,
AIGA Los Angeles

2023 AIGA LA Incoming Board of Directors Announcement

AIGA Los Angeles — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 19:33:48 +0000

AIGA LA is your professional organization for design, and YOU voted!

Your voices were heard last week. Thank you to all our members who voted on the 2023 Board of Directors Slate. Your new board representatives are below. But don’t think that’s the last opportunity to speak up. If you want to get involved, share ideas, ask questions, or simply play a bigger role in design in L.A., please get in touch with us. As a nearly entirely volunteer-run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, we’re here to serve the design community and we need all the voices (and hands!) we can get. If you’re interested in volunteering, let us know and get involved.

AIGA Los Angeles

CA Dept of Education’s AME CTE Industry Sector Partners with AIGA Chapters to Shape the Future of Public Design Education

How can you help us in our mission?

Keep up to date with AIGA Los Angeles and all CA chapter events that help fund programs like these on our newsletter, Instagram, Linkedin, and TikTok.

Want to volunteer to help us or know someone who would? Contact us at lausd@aigala.org!

Consider donating to AIGA LA. Your donations make a difference in what we’re able to achieve by providing valuable resources to grow. All charitable contributions to AIGA LA are tax-deductible to the extent the tax code allows. AIGA LA’s U.S. federal tax ID is 95-2080216.

About AIGA Los Angeles

About AIGA

About the Artist

Marina Murad is an award-winning Iraqi-American designer and art director living in Los Angeles. Currently, she is a Senior Designer at Media.Monks for Google and serves on the Board of Directors at AIGA Los Angeles.

AIGA LA x Los Angeles Unified to Inspire the Future of Design

“As a Los Angeles Unified graduate, this partnership means a lot to me. My computer graphics teacher, Mr. Suarez-Pierra, once made an offhand comment about design as a career when I was a junior in high school. That comment changed the course of my life.”

– Paola Mendoza-Yu, AIGA LA Vice President

This is just the start of AIGA LA and LA Unified’s meaningful partnership and we look forward to sharing more exciting news as we engage and support the future of design.

How can you help us in our mission?

About AIGA Los Angeles

About AIGA

About the Artist

The artwork by Camilo Bejarano was commissioned by AIGA LA for this press release.

You can find more of Camilo’s work on his website.

2026 AIGA LA Board of Directors Nominations

JOIN THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OPEN ENROLLMENT

Applications/Nominations accepted now through 11:59PM, Thursday, April 30

HOW TO APPLY / SUBMIT A NOMINATION:

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCES

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION & ACCESSIBILITY (DEIA) DIRECTOR

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

PARTNERSHIPS DIRECTOR

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

ABOUT AIGA LA

2025 AIGA LA Incoming Board of Directors Announcement

AIGA LA is your professional organization for design, and YOU voted!

INCOMING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

—PRESIDENT ELECTJoseph Soto

—VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONSLacye Beauregard

—

DIRECTOR POSITIONS

—EDUCATION DIRECTORRenée McKellar

—MARKETING DIRECTORNolan Havig

—MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORTia Clements

—PROGRAMMING DIRECTOROlivia Leese

—SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORShijia (Bella) Luo

OUTGOING BOARD OF DIRECTORS

—VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONSHannah Richard

—VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCESCourtnie Cotillo

—MARKETING DIRECTORRachel Esteffe

—PROGRAMMING DIRECTORAmanda Powell

—SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORMaggie Hollander

2025 AIGA LA Board of Directors Slate Ratification

CAST YOUR VOTE

2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS SLATE

—

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR POSITIONS

PRESIDENT ELECTJoseph Soto

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONSLacye Beauregard

—

DIRECTOR POSITIONS

EDUCATION DIRECTORRenée McKellar

MARKETING DIRECTORNolan Havig

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORTia Clements

PROGRAMMING DIRECTOROlivia Leese

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORShijia (Bella) Luo

2025 AIGA LA Board of Directors Nominations

JOIN THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OPEN ENROLLMENT

Applications/Nominations accepted now through 11:59PM, Monday, May 5

HOW TO APPLY / SUBMIT A NOMINATION:

PRESIDENT ELECT

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCES

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

YOU ARE SOMEONE WHO…

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Keep up to date with AIGA Los Angeles and all CA chapter events that help fund programs like these on our newsletter, Instagram, L inkedin, and TikTok.

—
PRESIDENT ELECT
Joseph Soto

—
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
Lacye Beauregard

—
EDUCATION DIRECTOR
Renée McKellar

—
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Nolan Havig

—
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Tia Clements

—
PROGRAMMING DIRECTOR
Olivia Leese

—
SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Shijia (Bella) Luo

—
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
Hannah Richard

—
VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCES
Courtnie Cotillo

—
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Rachel Esteffe

—
PROGRAMMING DIRECTOR
Amanda Powell

—
SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Maggie Hollander

PRESIDENT ELECT
Joseph Soto

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
Lacye Beauregard

EDUCATION DIRECTOR
Renée McKellar

MARKETING DIRECTOR
Nolan Havig

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Tia Clements

PROGRAMMING DIRECTOR
Olivia Leese

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Shijia (Bella) Luo