Teaching
Teaching is one of the most fulfilling parts of my professional life.
I bring real-world experience into the classroom—from design studios and brand launches to e-commerce platforms and marketing campaigns. Whether I’m teaching foundational design, UX/UI, or digital marketing, my focus is on helping students connect creativity with strategy, and craft with purpose.
My teaching style is structured, supportive, and rooted in professional standards. I aim to create an environment where students are challenged to think critically, solve problems, and communicate ideas clearly—while building a portfolio of work that actually prepares them for what’s next.
I believe education should bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world. That’s what I strive to do every time I step into one.
Teaching Experience
Adjunct Professor, College of Arts & Sciences | 2024 – Present
As an adjunct professor of graphic design, I specialize in UX/UI design and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in design practices. I teach undergraduate students how to navigate the intersection of creativity, technology, and user experience—equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in today’s dynamic digital landscape. My courses combine conceptual thinking with hands-on projects, encouraging both experimentation and practical application. Through a forward-thinking curriculum, I help students build a strong foundation in digital design while exploring the emerging tools shaping the future of the industry.
Adjunct Professor, Jack Welch College of Business & Technology | 2024 – Present
As an adjunct professor in the graduate program at the Jack Welch College of Business and Technology, I teach a specialized course focused on Amazon marketing. The course equips students with practical strategies and real-world insights to navigate the rapidly evolving world of e-commerce, with an emphasis on building brand presence and driving performance on the Amazon platform. Through case studies, hands-on assignments, and strategic analysis, students gain a deep understanding of digital marketing within one of the world’s most competitive marketplaces.
Adjunct Professor of Design | 2006 – 2014
At the University of Bridgeport, I taught foundational courses in graphic design, introducing students to the core principles of typography, layout, and visual communication. My approach emphasized both the creative process and the discipline required to succeed in the field. I set a commanding yet supportive tone in the classroom, challenging students to meet professional standards while encouraging them to find their unique voice as designers. These courses laid the groundwork for students to build strong, portfolio-ready work and a deep respect for the craft of design.
In addition to studio courses, I created and taught Professional Practices for Graphic Designers, a business-focused class that prepared students for the realities of a creative career. The curriculum covered essential topics such as contracts, pricing, client relationships, self-promotion, and freelance best practices. It was designed to help students transition confidently from the classroom to the professional world, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to thrive as working designers.
Co-founder of the MPS Design Management Degree | 2010 – 2014
In collaboration with Richard Yelle, Director of the Shintaro Akatsu School of Design (SASD), I co-authored the curriculum for the Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Design Management at the University of Bridgeport. This work included developing the program’s academic structure, writing all course content, and leading the completion of detailed state accreditation filings. The program was created to bridge the gap between creative practice and strategic business thinking—preparing graduate students to lead design-driven innovation within organizations and industries.
In addition to program development, I served as an adjunct professor at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. At the graduate level, I taught courses in design management, emphasizing leadership, strategy, and systems thinking. At the undergraduate level, I taught core courses in graphic design, typography, and professional practices, blending technical skill-building with real-world application to prepare students for successful careers in the creative industries.
Public Speaking
I’m an experienced public speaker with the ability to connect authentically with audiences—whether in front of a packed auditorium or an intimate team workshop. I speak on a range of topics including design, artificial intelligence, direct-to-consumer (D2C) strategy, branding, and entrepreneurship. My talks are tailored to suit each audience, whether it’s a classroom of students or a corporate leadership team. I’m available for speaking engagements at schools, conferences, and businesses. When applicable, attendees can also receive a signed copy of my book as part of the session.
Contact me to discuss your event, availability, and rates.
Speaking Engagements
Fairfield University | Fairfield, CT
HOW Design Conference | Chicago, IL
A Day in the Life Conference | Baltimore, MD
Type Directors Club Type Salon | New York, NY
HOW Interactive Design Conference | Washington, DC
Speaking Topics & Titles
Making the Leap: From Print to Web
Understanding Design Management
The Principles of Information Architecture
Understanding Web Typography
Running a Boutique Design Agency
“Thank you! You were funny, relevant, and made me feel much better about some of the pickles I’ve gotten myself into with clients over the years.”
Kendall Ludwig, Speaker Liaison