About Leigh N. Eldred
Traditional Artist & Digital Media Designer
Artist & Designer
I am dedicated to living faithfully and embracing creativity in all aspects of my life and work. My passion is in designing creative content that enhances user experience by seamlessly combining artistic form with intuitive function. With a relentless curiosity to learn and a commitment to inclusivity, I empathically craft meaningful and engaging user experiences that resonate with diverse audiences to ensure every interaction is both beautiful and purposeful.
Graphic Design of My Fine Art Graphite Drawing in UX Design Mockup for Public Relations Marketing
Creative Content Designer
My journey to this point has been one of diligence, pushing through challenges to earn a 4.0 GPA at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). I intensively studied studio art and art history before gaining a comprehensive education in my major of communication, with concentrations in public relations and digital communication. During the summer breaks and holidays, I earned over thirty professional certifications through UTSA curated programs to become proficient in skills ranging from graphic design to UX design. I undertook skill-based projects, through the Adobe creative campus program at UTSA, to augment university coursework in digital communication. I utilized Creative Cloud technology to submit work in AI, marketing, graphic design, data visualization, video production, slide presentations, pitches, podcasting, webpage design, and visual communication to earn each micro-credential certification. I am proficient with Microsoft, Google, and Adobe Creative Cloud software.
UX Design Thinking Graphic Design
UX/UI Designer
I design apps and websites using Figma, Adobe XD, HTML, CSS, and content management systems (CMS). I completed end-to-end projects at UTSA, and during the summer breaks and holidays through Google programs curated by UTSA, to fully prepare for a future career in user experience design. I utilize the design thinking process to empathize with users, define user pain points, ideate solutions, create wireframes and prototypes, as well as test and iterate on designs. This includes producing UX research plans, conducting interviews and usability studies, synthesizing results with affinity diagrams, and translating conclusions into actionable insights prioritized by user needs. I ideate design solutions using crazy eights, rapid sketching, HMW exercises, and competitive audits. I empathize with users by devising bias-free empathy maps, user personas, user journey maps, user flow charts, information architecture, sitemaps, and by drawing big-picture and close-up storyboards. Using visual design elements and Gestalt principles, I create paper and digital wireframes with industry standard symbols, design systems, branding, sticker sheets, mockups, plus navigable low- and high-fidelity prototypes with iterations. I define pain points, value propositions, as well as problem and goal statements. I employ essential foundational UX concepts of user-centered design, accessibility, and equity-focused design at every point throughout the design process. I cherish the idea of eliciting positive real-world impact with my designs as I continue to strengthen my skillset.
Podcasting Experience & Cover Design
PR Writer & Designer
My university coursework and practical experiences provided me with a strong foundation in various aspects of communication. I develop and implement strategic marketing communication plans to effectively generate brand awareness, achieve organizational mission goals, manage organizational reputation, and build positive stakeholder relationships. I apply the ethical and legal aspects of communication to ensure my practices adhere to industry standards and regulations. I utilize interpersonal communication skills to efficiently communicate and collaborate with diverse teams and individuals. I employ writing and editing skills to produce clear, concise, and persuasive content for various formats. I conduct SWOT and audience analyses and write situation analysis reports. I write and design multimedia news releases, fact sheets, features, promotions, presentations, and media kit production. I pitch stories to media outlets and manage media inquiries to ensure accurate and favorable coverage. I handle crisis communication with proven techniques to respond to negative publicity and maintain public trust. I plan and execute promotional events that align with organizational goals and enhance public image. I create and manage social media campaigns, engage with audiences, and analyze social media metrics as measures of success. I develop compelling digital content in the form of podcasts, blog posts, webpages, videos, and graphics, to effectively communicate messages to target audiences. I employ various digital marketing strategies, such as search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, and online advertising, to promote brands and drive engagement. Additionally, I am proficient with Microsoft, Google, and Adobe Creative Cloud software.
Social Science Quantitative Research Analysis
Project Researcher
In addition to conducting independent UX research usability studies, I studied and conducted both public relations and social science research at UTSA. I utilize various research methodologies, including qualitative and quantitative approaches, to gather and analyze data. I design surveys and questionnaires to collect data on public opinion, attitudes, and behaviors. I employ techniques for advanced data analysis using IBM SPSS statistical software and interpret the results to draw meaningful conclusions. I am cognizant of the essential ethical considerations involved in conducting social science research, including obtaining informed consent and ensuring participant confidentiality.
UTSA Content Creators Organization Graphic
Design Team Leader
I led UTSA students in the establishment of the Content Creators professional and academic organization as the first elected president. With the motto to “Create Connect Inspire”, we networked with like-minded students as future creative industry professionals to collaborate on innovative multimedia projects with real-world impact. While working across industries and disciplines, we explored content creation strategies, multimedia storytelling, and personal branding. We expanded our skill set in content creation tools, multimedia, podcasting, video, streaming, content design, production, UX/UI design, and more with cutting-edge tools and resources. We gained valuable experience in workshops, contests, and mentorship while bolstering our portfolios and resumes for future careers. In dedication to inclusivity and accessibility, we ensured that all voices were heard.
Traditional Artist
Photography, Drawing, Illustration, Pastel, Painting, Bas-Relief Painting, Encaustic, Vegan Encaustic, Mixed Media, Collage, Assemblage, Additive Sculpture, Subtractive Sculpture, Art Jewelry, Food Art, Needlework, Video, Digital Art, UX/UI Design, PR Writing & Design, Graphic Design
Public relations Social Media Promotion
Digital Media Designer
Throughout this journey, I discovered that my passion for creation evolved from my background in traditional art to include digital creation. I cherish the idea of eliciting positive real-world impact with my designs and would love to work for a company that could facilitate that goal. I wholeheartedly value inclusivity, empathy, perseverance, and integrity, so I’m seeking a work culture that aligns with those standards. I have a proven track record of working well on my own and in collaboration with others, having completed both in-person and remote projects from different states. I’m a great problem-solver, up for any challenge, and look forward to strengthening my skillset. I would prefer remote or hybrid work but am open to relocating. If any of what I’ve said sounds like a possible fit for your organization, either now or in the future, then please connect with me on LinkedIn and reach out to me through the Contact page. I would love to hear from you!
Resume
Relentless Curiosity to Learn
