Industry Experts Help Shape the Future of The Modern’s Programs

The Modern College of Design recently hosted its annual Program Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting, bringing together leading industry professionals, Modern alumni, and educational experts to focus on one shared mission of ensuring The Modern's programs remain cutting-edge and deeply connected to industry needs.

This year, the PAC meeting introduced a more specialized format, aligning industry representatives with The Modern's programs. These include the Graphic Design Program, User Experience Design Program, Motion Graphics and Video Design Program, and Design Leadership Program. Representatives also provided insights into the development of General Education courses, reinforcing the college’s commitment to delivering a well-rounded and future-ready education.

The Program Advisory Committee offers critical perspectives on emerging trends, technological innovations, and the evolving skill sets required for graduates to excel. By organizing the committee around specific programs, The Modern was able to gather even more targeted feedback to guide curriculum updates and strengthen student preparation.

"The PAC meeting is an essential part of our commitment to excellence," said Jessica Barry, President of The Modern College of Design. "Hearing directly from industry experts ensures that our students are not just meeting industry standards but exceeding them. Their insights allow us to refine our programs and keep The Modern experience innovative, relevant, and powerful."

The Modern College of Design remains steadfast in its mission to educate, develop, and prepare students to become leaders in the creative industries. With the continued engagement of the PAC, The Modern is better equipped than ever to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Special thanks to the professionals who shared their expertise at the 2025 Program Advisory Committee meeting.

• Matt Zolman (Alumni), Marketing Manager, Tangram Flex
• Jamie Vandeberg, Creative Director, Exhibit Concepts
• Jon Powell, Managing Partner, Christopher & Mae
• Matthew Wheeler (Alumni), Senior Graphic Designer, ITW Food Equipment Group
• Tony Neary, Chief Creative Officer, Olberding Brands
• Isken Cosip (Alumni), Founder and Creative Director, ICM Design
• Meagan Parker (Alumni), Project Manager, Creative Fuse
• Cody Rayn (Alumni), Motion Designer, The Ohlmann Group
• Carlee Kremer (Alumni), Marketing Coordinator, Mechanical Services & Design
• Anthony Weir (Alumni), 3D Animator and Motion Designer, Outsider Video and Motion Graphics
• Krista Gansert (Alumni), Design Group Leader - UI/UX Software and Services, Crown Equipment Corporation
• Megan Strong (Alumni), UX Lead, Pushpay
• Abby Herrera (Alumni), Junior Designer, Mad Ave Group
• Rob Keel (Alumni), UX Designer, Winsupply
• Jim Crotty, Communication Instructor, Central New Mexico Community College
• Myla Cardona-Jones, Law and Public Service Professor and CEO, Brunner Literacy Center
• ‍Brian Elliott, Chair, Division of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, The University of Montana Western

If you are interested in contributing your expertise to The Modern's Program Advisory Committee and helping shape the next generation of creative professionals, please contact Korinne Toadvine at korinne.toadvine@themodern.edu.

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