GDUSA names MIAD Communication Design a top program
Solution-oriented, hands-on visual literacy: this is a core quality of the Communication Design program at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD). In 2024, Graphic Design USA Magazine recognized MIAD’s Communication Design major as one of the top programs in the nation.
According to their website, GDUSA compiled its annual list of graphic design programs based on schools “that excel in teaching the hard and soft skills necessary for success, in nurturing talent and expanding minds, and in preparing the next generation of creatives for a dream career in the real world.”
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Johanna Yim, “Swapt,” Senior Exhibition 2024.
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Jerald Aguilar presents “Kaleidoscope” at Senior Exhibition opening night.
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Communication Design, Packaging Design class, 2024.
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Suleika Ruiz, “Mother Nurture: A Community for Postpartum Depression,” Senior Exhibition 2024.
MIAD students and alumni are regularly recognized by GDUSA. Communication Design students Brady VanderHart ’24 and Emma Jenkins ’25 were named among GDUSA’s Students to Watch. In the magazine’s 60th anniversary American Graphic Design Awards in 2023, three MIAD students were selected from over 8,000 entries. Their work was judged alongside professional design work.
In addition to producing award-winning professional-quality work, Communication Design students at MIAD are exploring a wide range of careers. This year’s graduates are starting careers locally and nationally, working in graphic design positions for employers including Wizards of the Coast, Maker LLC, Great Wolf Lodge Headquarters, Anthropologie and the Milwaukee Bucks.
Work by Communication Design juniors will be on view June 3 – July 20, 2024 in Don’t Call Me Junior! The exhibition showcases junior student work across all six of MIAD’s majors.
Learn more about MIAD’s Communication Design program!
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MIAD Students Connect Science and Design Through Natural Science Minor
Two MIAD students are demonstrating how scientific research can strengthen creative practice through the college’s Natural Science minor.
Seniors Ella Strzempa ’27 (Communication Design) and Keira Batzel ’27 (Fashion and Apparel Design) explored environmental issues through independent research projects in their science minor while developing skills that complement their studio work.
MIAD Makes Its Mark at MAPC 2026
A group of MIAD students, faculty and staff attended the 2026 Mid America Print Council (MAPC) Conference, “Printelligence,” in Baton Rouge, where they participated in demonstrations, panel discussions, exhibitions and professional networking opportunities.
Independent Inquiry Program students explore AI through research and creative practice
As emerging technologies continue to reshape creative industries, MIAD’s Independent Inquiry Program (IIP) gives students the opportunity to investigate their impact firsthand. Through philanthropically funded support, the optional, by application program allows students to pursue self-directed research projects that explore how new technologies can influence art, design and education.
MIAD Alum Kelly Alexander Wendorf Brings Stories of Travel to Life Through Paper Cutting
For Kelly Alexander Wendorf, paper cutting is more than an artistic medium. It's a way to explore memory, movement and human connection through intricately layered works of art. A MIAD alum who studied printmaking, Wendorf recently created a series of large-scale...
Behind In a State of IF: A Collaborative Curatorial Journey
“In a State of IF”, on view in MIAD’s Frederick Layton Gallery through November 21, is the result of a years-long collaboration between co-curators Maria Novotny and Katherine Gressel.