Graduate Student Appreciation Week Promotion

Grad-Student-App-Week-2023-MainImage

The hero graphic applied across all design elements to convey the theme of “community connections”

Challenge

Graduate Student Appreciation Week is a national event that celebrates the contributions and dedication of graduate students. At Gladstone, the week-long celebration aimed to acknowledge trainees’ efforts and build a sense of community through a series of talks, workshops, and social events.

The objective was to design a compelling visual campaign that would spark interest, boost attendance, and reflect the year’s theme of “community connections” in a way that felt exciting, inclusive, and energizing to a diverse trainee audience.

Solution

I led the design of the promotional campaign, developing a visual concept centered on connection, collaboration, and celebration. I created a flexible system of graphics, colors, and typography that conveyed a sense of movement and unity, visually reinforcing the idea of interconnectedness.

The designs were applied across digital and print touchpoints, including posters, signage, email banners, and digital displays throughout the building. My approach balanced professionalism with approachability, helping the materials feel celebratory while staying aligned with Gladstone’s broader brand.

Outcomes

The campaign drew high levels of engagement, with strong attendance across multiple events and positive feedback from both organizers and participants. The visuals played a key role in generating buzz and making the week feel cohesive and celebratory.

The design system has since served as a model for future trainee-focused campaigns, demonstrating how visual storytelling can build momentum, foster community, and strengthen internal engagement.

Role

Art Direction/Design/Illustration 

Tools

PhotoShop/ Illustrator

Digital Assets

Event-page

The event sign-up page featuring the hero graphic

campaign-iphone_mockup

One of the multiple email campaigns sent to 600+ invitees

Signage 

Sandwich-Board

Outdoor signage aided in participant event navigation

Poster-Board

Promotional posters featuring the event design

Lobby Mockup

The banner hung in Gladstone’s lobby to promote the event

Id_Card_Holder_Mockup_1

Branded name tags for participants

Notebook_Mockup

A giveaway item for attendees

Want to talk? Drop me a line.

Copyright © 2025 Sarah Gardner

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