Designing the Future: Communication Design Senior Capstones

By Ashlynne Sage

Poster designed by Amanda Coppeti

Communication Design is a multifaceted degree that prepares students for creative, design-focused careers. The program covers a wide range of disciplines, including marketing, graphic design, journalism, publication design, website design and more. Each senior in the program selects a personal capstone project that aligns with their future career goals, serving as both a portfolio piece and a strong addition to their resume. The senior designers are now preparing for their highly anticipated Capstone Exhibition on May 1st. I had the opportunity to interview several members of the class to get a behind-the-scenes look at what to expect during this year’s showcase.

Kate Stevens
Kate Stevens’ capstone project merges her love of music and design through the creation of an album that reflects the memories, lessons and personal growth she experienced during her college years. Combining sound and visuals, her work tells a deeply personal story of creativity and self-discovery. A passionate vintage vinyl collector, Kate was inspired to design something lasting and meaningful — something she can look back on with pride. This project serves as a reflection of her time at Stephens College and offers insight into how music has shaped her identity. After graduation, Kate plans to pursue a career in marketing or another creative field where she can continue to explore her passions.

Isabelle Benson
For her capstone, Isabelle Benson is designing an interior design magazine that highlights her dual interests in graphic design and interiors. Motivated by her long-standing love for both fields, Isabelle chose this project to showcase the design skills she has developed throughout the Communication Design program. Her goal is to demonstrate the artistry and depth behind graphic design while emphasizing its creative potential. The project represents a significant milestone, allowing her to bring together her passions in a tangible, expressive way. Post-graduation, Isabelle plans to pursue a career in graphic design, with aspirations of eventually working in the interior design industry as well.

Jamie Smallfield

Jamie Smallfield’s capstone project, Everything But the Game, pays tribute to their love of video games through pixel art and in-game design elements, without creating an actual playable game. After some initial uncertainty, Jamie drew inspiration from gaming culture and chose to build a project that captures the immersive atmosphere of a game world. This creative endeavor serves as a final celebration of their college experience — a “last hoorah” that balances nostalgia and excitement for the future. While Jamie doesn’t currently plan to enter the game design industry, this project reflects a meaningful exploration of personal interests and creative expression.

Elyse Clayton
Elyse Clayton’s capstone is a heartfelt exploration of faith, identity and community, presented through a multimedia format that combines photography, typography and illustration. The project features a series of interviews that invite viewers into thoughtful conversations about the Gospel, asking questions such as “Who are you?” and “What is an encounter with Jesus like?” Each interview is paired with a visual representation of the interviewee’s favorite scripture. Elyse’s passion for storytelling, people and her faith is woven throughout the work, which also draws from her background in journalism. Though illustration pushed her creatively, it allowed her to grow both personally and artistically. Elyse sees this project as the culmination of her time at Stephens — a reflection of who she is becoming and the faith that leads her forward. After graduation, she plans to work in missions, with design remaining a meaningful part of her life.

Nia Whitley
For her capstone, Nia Whitley is creating Stephensophia: The Vestura Edition, a yearbook-style publication inspired by conversations with students about the absence of a traditional yearbook at Stephens College. Wanting to do something that hadn’t been done before, Nia envisioned a project that marks the end of an era while honoring growth and transformation. Her work serves as a symbolic closing chapter, capturing who she was when she arrived and who she has become. Stephensophia emphasizes the importance of holding on to what has shaped you while stepping boldly into the future. While Nia is not currently pursuing a design career, she hopes to return to creative work in the future.

Daniela Saenz-Quintana

Daniela Saenz-Quintana’s capstone project, Soledad Magazine, celebrates Latin American art, fashion and creativity, aiming to inspire Latino creatives. The current issue, Inicios, focuses on rising Latino artists and explores themes of representation, migration and the significance of Latino artists in the creative world. The magazine allows Daniela to express her passion for writing, photography and design, and features contributions from creatives in her life. This project reflects her journey as an artist, showcasing both her work and life experiences. Through Soledad Magazine, Daniela hopes to highlight the importance of representation in creative spaces, promote appreciation for Latino culture, and introduce readers to emerging Latino artists. Looking forward, she plans to pursue a career as an Art Director, with this project serving as the cornerstone of her portfolio.