UCCS Commencement Materials

Role: Graphic Designer
Scope: Event Design, Print, Environmental Graphics, Digital Assets
Industry: Higher Education / Events

Designing a Cohesive Experience for a Large-Scale University Event

Commencement is one of the most meaningful events in a student’s academic journey. For the past several years, I’ve helped shape the visual experience surrounding the ceremony, from printed programs and signage to stage graphics and digital assets.

The project became an opportunity to elevate not just individual pieces, but the overall experience for graduates and their families.

Scope
Event Design
Environmental Graphics
Print Design
Program Design
Signage Systems
Digital Event Assets

UCCS Commencement Banners and Gonfalons
UCCS Commencement Banners and Gonfalons Planogram
UCCS Commencement Photo Frame and Step and Repeat Banner
UCCS Commencement Pocket Facts for Volunteers Front
UCCS Commencement Pocket Facts for Volunteers Open
Old Commencement pocket facts

The Challenge

When I first joined the project, many materials were developed independently and lacked a cohesive visual identity. The ceremony environment itself also had opportunities for improvement.

Coordinating content with dozens of contributors while managing production deadlines added another layer of complexity to an already high-visibility event.

UCCS Commencement Printable Window Signs
UCCS Commencement Program Information Card
UCCS Commencement After Graduation Information Sheet
UCCS Commencement Program Cover and Timeline Spread
UCCS Commencement Program Inside Pages

The Approach & Impact

Over the years, I redesigned the commencement program, introduced large-scale stage graphics, and developed supporting print and digital materials that created a more unified visual presence.

Bringing these elements together helped transform commencement into a more polished and intentional experience while creating a system that could be refined and expanded each year.

This project remains one of my favorites because of what the event represents. It’s rewarding to contribute to a milestone that means so much to students and their families.

Commencement program covers in a stack