What is UNITED?
UNITED was an independent, student-led recognition ceremony celebrating the last graduating class of The Modern College of Design.
In collaboration with two students, we created, coordinated, and orchestrated a specialized event for The Future of Design.
UNITED took place on June 7, 2026 at SouthBrook Christian Church. Below is a YouTube link to the streamed event.
L to R: Gabe Salazar, Emily Woodworth, Issa Muñoz-Chan
The Minds Behind UNITED
When we received the news that our college would not hold a commencement ceremony for the last graduating class, it sparked a fire in us juniors to put one together ourselves. With only two weeks to plan, we came together, reaching out to students, former staff, and local businesses to bring the ceremony to life.
Thanks to the generosity of a student’s parent, SouthBrook Christian Church, Marco’s Paper, Exhibit Concepts, and the dedication of two other incredibly talented individuals, we successfully created a meaningful celebration.
I had collaborated with two students and former classmates, Gabe Salazar and Issa Muñoz-Chan, in directing, planning, and organizing UNITED.
I directed the media and marketing, along with the ceremonial presentation of students’ portfolios and the program outline. Gabe directed event operations and designed the ceremonial intro video. Issa directed the branding and creative direction for digital and print collateral.
Accolades + Accomplishments
At the ceremony, I introduced the 2026 Valedictorians for their exceptional academic achievements. I also highlighted the final National Student Advertising Competition team to represent the college in the District 5 competition.
This ceremony was particularly special because of the families, former faculty, and graduates receiving the recognition they deserved.
Press + Publications
The event received local media coverage from WDTN (Dayton Television Network), which conducted interviews, published an article, and produced a video documenting the ceremony.
The Dayton Daily News also featured the project by interviewing one of our directors, capturing behind-the-scenes footage, and publishing an article highlighting the creation and preparation of UNITED.
June 7, 2026