For Families
Supporting your student’s success.
Welcome to the MIAD Family Forum, a reflection of both your and our commitment to ensuring your student’s academic and personal success.
Just as college is an exciting time of transformation for your student, it also marks a transitional milestone in your life. We recognize, and applaud, the pivotal role you play in your student’s life, and want to connect you with the information and resources you need to continue to do so.
At the same time that we encourage you to remain engaged in your student’s life, we also recognize that students succeed best in their journey toward becoming responsible adults and professionals when parents provide support as coaches and mentors, rather than as problem-solvers.
We hope you’ll use this website and our blog to help guide you in your role, and to learn more about how you can partner with us by directing your student to MIAD’s renowned campus resources and staff. The entire MIAD community is here to support your student’s natural ability to apply creativity, talent, knowledge and skills to new questions, experiences, and fields. Of course, if you have a concern, staff welcome your questions as well.
We also look forward to keeping you abreast of news throughout what promises to be a transformational year at MIAD.
Jeff Morin
President
Academic Advising →
Check out tips for success and resources for you and your student.
Careers in Art & Design →
Explore career prospects, resources and alumni successes.
Finances →
Learn more about financing a MIAD education.
Well Being and Safety →
MIAD takes pride in providing a safe and secure environment for all students, staff, faculty and visitors.
Life Beyond the Studio →
MIAD offers opportunities to enrich students’ college experiences beyond the classroom.
Graduation Information for Families →
Explore frequently asked questions about MIAD’s graduation.
News
Fashion students design adaptive clothing for Independence First
For the second year in a row, Fashion and Apparel Design students at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) worked with Independence First to design adaptive clothing tailor-made for two people who use wheelchairs. The project is part of a junior-level Patternmaking & Construction course.
MIAD Values Recognition Award: Nichole Uecker
Nichole Uecker, Student Accessibility Coordinator, received the October 2025 MIAD Values Recognition Award at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD). Nichole’s nominations highlighted her embodiment of MIAD’s Core Values, especially Community, Inclusion and Kindness.
Personal and professional passion inspire Product Design student
When senior Carmen Briones’ mother was diagnosed with breast cancer during Briones’ sophomore year at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD), finding a bra that was comfortable with a medical port became an additional challenge. Briones ’26 (Product Design) answered that challenge in her Design for Human Interface class by designing a product that reduces pain while increasing mobility.
Toy design at Squishmallows: MIAD student develops confidence
When she first got the internship offer from Squishmallows at Jazwares, Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) senior Melody Frias ’26 (Communication Design and Illustration) thought she was in shock. Months after the internship concluded, Frias still reads that email when she needs a boost.
Collections Spotlight: Helen Hoppin
Not only is the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) home to two formal gallery spaces hosting numerous external exhibitions, the college also boasts its own large collection focusing on work produced by founders and early students.