Future Graphic Designers Day draws more than 70 high school students

More than 70 juniors and seniors from five schools attended Pennsylvania College of Technology’s Future Graphic Designers Day this spring.

Carbon Career & Technical Institute; the Career and Technology Center of Lackawanna County; St. John Neumann Regional Academy; Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology; and Williamsport Area High School all brought students to the event. The Dual Enrollment Visit Day gives students the opportunity to interact with faculty and staff, engage in hands-on learning activities and explore Penn College career pathways.

“The event provided prospective students with a comprehensive introduction to the program, offering opportunities to connect with alumni, faculty and current students while gaining insight into the graphic design experience,” said Barb F. DiMarco, assistant dean for arts & sciences.

Throughout the day, dual enrollment students took a campus tour, enjoyed lunch at Capitol Eatery and visited “Graphic Design 2026,” a student exhibition at The Gallery at Penn College. The installation showcased the best design, illustration and web design work of graphic design students in their final semester of study. Visitors also toured campus facilities, including the graphic design department, and attended the Senior Project Show in Penn’s Inn, where they engaged with graduating seniors to learn more about their creative processes and academic journeys.

“While moving from location to location, students were able to view additional student work hanging in the hallways and classrooms,” said Kathryn M. Anderson, instructor of graphic design. “A small number of our freshman students working on final projects in the classrooms provided additional insight to the rigor and challenges of the program. Touring students really enjoyed the opportunity to chat with our seniors during the table presentations.”

Jared M. Narber, of New York City, a 2005 graduate of Penn College’s graphic design program, joined the group virtually to discuss his role as a senior designer with Sesame Workshop.

Don Crane is a graphic arts and advertising instructor at the Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology in Pleasant Gap. This was the school’s second time visiting Future Graphic Designers Day. The event, he said, provides his students with an opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world career pathways in graphic design, marketing and visual communications.

“One of the most significant takeaways was helping students envision the next step beyond high school,” Crane said. “Several students expressed interest in pursuing graphic design, marketing and related visual communication careers, and Penn College is certainly on their list of institutions to consider.”

The value of Future Graphic Designers Day extends beyond recruitment, he added.

“It inspires students, broadens their perspective on the industry and reinforces the importance of creativity, problem-solving, communication and technical skills in today’s workforce,” Crane said. “Experiences like this help students connect their passion for design with meaningful educational and career opportunities.”