About Leigh N. Eldred
Traditional Artist & Digital Media Designer
Creative Strategist
I am a versatile creative strategist with expertise in art, graphic design, UX/UI design, and public relations. I specialize in creating impactful, user-centered designs and strategic communication solutions that resonate with organization stakeholders. My approach seamlessly integrates artistic vision with data-driven strategy, ensuring that each project aligns with organizational objectives while delivering meaningful user experience. By leveraging my multidisciplinary expertise, I excel at bridging the gap between creative and technical teams to drive cohesive, result-oriented campaigns.
My professional ethos is grounded in the belief that creativity should inspire positive change and deliver value with purpose. I am passionate about designing user interfaces, crafting compelling content to enhance brand narratives, and developing cross-platform communication strategies that harmonize aesthetic excellence with flawless performance. My holistic perspective enables me to empathically create emotionally engaging experiences that connect with diverse audiences and amplify brand impact.
I partner with clients seeking to elevate their brand identity with strategic messaging. I excel in devising cohesive campaign solutions, enhanced user experience, innovative product designs, and captivating storytelling under dynamic conditions. I am committed to delivering exceptional results that foster growth and connection. Connect with me to explore how we can work together to achieve your organizational goals.
Graphic Design of My Fine Art Graphite Drawing in UX Design Mockup for Public Relations Marketing
Creative Journey
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 forty professional certifications through UTSA curated programs to become proficient in skills ranging from graphic and UI/UX design to public relations and crisis communication. 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 was selected to become an Adobe Student Ambassador and 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, Dreamweaver, HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, 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.
PR Magazine Feature Article with Graphic
Public Relations Consultant
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 employ the RPIE process for social science evidence-based research, planning, implementation, and evaluation methodology with outcome-focused measurements.
I apply the ethical and legal aspects of communication to ensure my practices adhere to industry standards and regulations. I adhere to the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) code of conduct and the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) code of ethics. 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 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 conduct SWOT and audience analyses and write situation analysis reports. I perform strategic management with environmental scanning and 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
Team Leader
I led UTSA students in the establishment of the Content Creators professional organization as the first elected president. Passionate about creativity and innovation, I personally created the logo, style guide, rules of conduct, organizational constitution, certificates, official webpage, and recruitment materials in the form of writing, graphics, and videos. I also taught many live workshops on various forms content creation.
With the motto to “Create Connect Inspire”, we met weekly through online video conferencing to network as future creative industry professionals and collaborated 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, generative AI, 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
G I am an artist who encourages others to explore their creative potential by fearlessly trying new mediums and techniques, just as I have. I believe that art can act as a balm for the soul when one's innermost feelings are allowed to flow into artistic expression. As a lifelong craft enthusiast, I love the challenge of up-cycling and creating something beautiful out of otherwise unremarkable scraps. It is mentally stimulating and salves my environmental conscience by participating in good stewardship.
Public relations Social Media Promotion
Creative Mission
Through my life's journey, I discovered that my passion for creation evolved from traditional art to include digital creation. 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.
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.
Resume
Leigh's Ever Evolving Resume
Relentless Curiosity to Learn
