Kara Smoker
@karasmoker
Creative graphic designer with expertise in branding and visual communication.
What I'm looking for
As a passionate graphic designer with a BFA in Graphic Design from Miami University, I have cultivated a strong foundation in creating engaging and relevant brands for clinical research. My academic achievements, including graduating Summa Cum Laude with a GPA of 3.92, reflect my dedication to excellence in design. Currently, I serve as a Graphic Designer III at Medpace, where I lead a team in developing materials that inform, recruit, and retain patients and sites.
In addition to my role at Medpace, I have a thriving freelance design practice where I create branding, apparel, environmental graphics, and promotional materials for various clients. My experience as Art Director for Miami Quarterly magazine has honed my skills in editorial design, collaboration, and project management. I take pride in mentoring graphic design interns and facilitating teamwork to achieve outstanding results.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Freelance Designer
Freelance Design
Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 5 months)
Created branding, apparel, environmental graphics, and promotional materials for various clients. Managed client relationships and project delivery.
Graphic Designer III, Information Design
Medpace
Oct 2019 - Present (5 years 8 months)
Developed engaging and relevant brands for clinical research, as well as materials to inform, recruit, and retain patients and sites. Managed communication and timelines as a team lead.
Multimedia Manager
College Hill Presbyterian Church
Jan 2018 - Dec 2019 (1 year 11 months)
Designed environmental graphics and collateral for weekly gatherings and special events. Facilitated a team of volunteers to run visual equipment.
Computer Technician
Miami Department of Integrated Technology
Jan 2016 - Dec 2018 (2 years 11 months)
Conducted computer maintenance for faculty and student resources. Provided technical support and troubleshooting.
Art Director
Miami Quarterly (MQ) magazine
Jan 2016 - Dec 2018 (2 years 11 months)
Led design staff in layout editorial design. Collaborated with writers, editors, and photographers to produce four issues a year.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Miami University
BFA in Graphic Design, Graphic Design
Grade: 3.92, Summa Cum Laude
Activities and societies: Art History Minor, mathematics extension studies, College of Creative Arts Scholar
Graduated with a BFA in Graphic Design, minoring in Art History and completing mathematics extension studies. Recognized as a College of Creative Arts Scholar, achieving a GPA of 3.92 and graduating Summa Cum Laude.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
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