MIAD Alumni Association Board welcomes new president

The Alumni Association Board at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) welcomes David Szymanski ’13 (Photography) as the new president. Szymanski follows the tenure of Sara Mulloy ’06 (Painting), who served as the previous Alumni Board president.

The MIAD Alumni Association Board promotes engagement and connection through activities and events, such as the upcoming MIAD Alumni Reunion. Hear from incoming president Szymanski and departing president Mulloy on their visions for the MIAD Alumni Board and their connection to MIAD and its creative community.

David Szymanski

As the incoming president, what is your vision for the MIAD alumni board?
First, let me start by saying how impressed I am by the work that Sara and Kyle Hernandez (Director of Alumni and Family Relations) have done in making the MIAD alumni board what it is today. I hope to continue the momentum that the board has built and work to recruit more members to be active in the alumni community. While we are a small school, we have such an impressive array of wildly talented and world-known artists, designers, creators, and more. This is an incredible resource for current students and such an amazing way for alumni to feel connected and empowered to give back to the next generation. With that idea in mind, I’d like to start building out more structured programming for current students and alumni with events, networking opportunities, classes, etc.

Why have you remained active in the MIAD alumni community?
I joined the board in 2022 and, like a lot of the members at large, I wanted to give back to an institution that gave me so much. I didn’t anticipate to get so much from the experience; it filled an empty cup I had to remain active with the younger generation of artists. It’s been so rewarding helping build and create events that ushered in current students and alumni across the board. It’s been really exciting as well to have a pulse on what’s going on at MIAD and how they have been able to expand programs and build out new spaces to support the ever-changing impact of technology and art.

What impact do MIAD alumni have at MIAD and in the broader creative community?
MIAD alumni have a major impact at MIAD whether they realize it or not (and that’s the story we are trying to tell). From acting as judges for Senior Thesis projects, helping to distribute thousands of dollars of fundings; to meeting with students over a cup of coffee for impromptu career guidance; to formally discussing their world renowned work in a classroom setting—our alumni have a huge impact on our students that truly shapes their time at MIAD. We are an invaluable resource for students who need help in building a portfolio, making introductions to tastemakers/creative directors/artists/etc and in general in the community.

As for the creative community at large, we are an uberly talented group of alumni working in a variety of different fields and spaces from law to music to art—all proudly wearing our River Rat badge. In the creative community we have shown that a small arts school can make some major waves in every market, space, and area around the world. MIAD has “pushed” out some of the best and brightest and we hope that we can help that energy and nurture the next wave of creative talent.

Anything else you’d like to add about the alumni board or your MIAD experience?
We are always in need of more creative energy, in whatever capacity you are able to give it. We welcome every alum no matter your role, company, level of experience, etc. We are pretty low commitment and are a great way to stay involved in your building blocks of your career. I’m very accessible and happy to talk with anyone who has questions or would like to learn more.

Sara Mulloy

What are you proudest of during your tenure as MIAD alumni board president?
I’m especially proud of my work with the Alumni Board in developing the Alumni of Influence event. It has grown year after year into a powerful platform where current students and alumni can connect, share experiences, and build meaningful relationships that offer lasting value to everyone involved.

Why have you remained active in the MIAD alumni community?
My time at MIAD was an incredibly rewarding experience, and I’ve been fortunate to find success in the years since. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to give back and share the insights I’ve gained with those just beginning their journey as part of the MIAD alumni community.

What impact do MIAD alumni have at MIAD and in the broader creative community?
There are MIAD alumni spread throughout the city, the state, the country, and beyond—sharing our creativity and knowledge within our communities every day. Much of the foundation for our talents and ideas was built during our time at MIAD, where we were challenged, inspired, and supported to grow as artists, designers, and thinkers. That shared experience continues to connect us, and is reflected in our personal and professional lives, no matter where we are.

Anything else you’d like to add about the alumni board or your MIAD experience?
I am thankful for my time serving as Alumni Board president and look forward to continuing supporting the Board under David’s leadership.

Keep up with Szymanski and Mulloy, join the Alumni Board and get involved with MIAD’s Alumni resources!