As senior graphic designer for the PHA, I served as the sole creative lead responsible for the end-to-end production of all visual communication. I managed a diverse portfolio of projects, ranging from the design of essential print materials to the development and maintenance of the agency’s web presence. This role required diverse design skills and a comprehensive approach to technical execution across multiple design disciplines.
Managers: Nichole Tillman (EVP), Glynnis Richard
Duration: 4.2014 – 6.2018
Notable Achievements
- Led the committee and implementation of the Authority’s new sign system
– Designed the PHA and Sharswood-Blumberg website
– Increased circulations of both employee and resident newsletters by over 10%
PRINT PROJECTS
We created a plethora of publications during my time at the PHA – with over twelve divisions, I was responsible for designing books and newsletters for almost all of them. Due to the rebranding of the organization’s logo the year before my employment, every newspaper, report, or brochure needed an entire update.
The Authority’s most important project, the annual accomplishments report, was designed throughout the year and consisted of taking photos, creating charts and graphics, and displaying it all in an enticing layout. Working with other departments required extensive communication and problem solving skills in order to coordinate schedules and deadlines.
Programs were also very important at the Philadelphia Housing Authority, with each event needing a custom look and feel while still holding to the PHA standards. Whether for a grand opening, building implosion (so cool!) or job fair, the program needed to contain informative content while being a keepsake for the attendees.
Flyers and posters were very important at the PHA, too. There were always dozens of events, all at different locations, happening simultaneously, and they would all need flyers and posters for the residents, employees, and/or general public. Quick, concise communication was paramount for these projects, and working with the Communications Team, we would successfully fulfill every request.
DIGITAL PROJECTS
Websites were a primary responsibility as senior designer at the PHA. Providing important information in a timely manner was important for both employees and residents, and as mobile websites became more popular, digital updates provided info fast. Creating graphics and content updates for the company portal was also an important duty, though the updates were mostly backend Umbraco edits, and that content is confidential.
The two main websites were the flagship, the PHA home site, and the Sharswood Blumberg site, which has information about the construction of the new housing units and new PHA headquarters. While the PHA flagship website has been updated since my time, the Sharswood Blumberg site remains the same, though still featuring minor content updates.
