ABOUT

I want to welcome new friends and welcome back everyone else. If we haven’t met before, my name is Dawn Hubbs, and I am a Baltimore native. I am relatable, friendly, helpful, and outgoing. I am that girl – the one that offers to help anyone and everyone with anything (and if I don’t know the answer, I will find it!). I was born and raised by a strong Italian mom that always pushed me to greatness, even when I didn’t care about what that meant. She taught me never to give up and never stop trying to accomplish my goals. While my journey has had some obstacles (big and small), I am proud to have preserved in the end.

I have always wanted to find my life’s purpose and passion that turns a job into a career, but weeks became months, and months became years, and I always felt stuck. After years and years of soul-searching and working the “pay your bill jobs,” I knew it was time for a change. I was finally ready to get serious about school, but what would I study? My current job was about to close its doors and relocate across the country, so I knew time was of the essence to find something. I thumbed through a bunch of college catalogs, but nothing jumped out. I knew I could major in computers since I had taken courses prior, but what was being offered was boring. I found some art courses, and I knew art was fun, but let’s get real. I wasn’t a fancy painter, and everything I drew looked like a bad cartoon character. Since art is one of those muscles you must exercise, I was out of practice. Kids are told to hang up their smocks because other things, like science and math, have become more critical, and I was no different. We knew it was a fun hobby, but a career?

I continued to search when I finally stumbled upon a program at UB. This was it – my niche – that thing I had been looking for forever – a graphic designer. I enrolled in the design program at the University of Baltimore immediately and was in the right place at the right time. This was confirmed in 2014 when I had my first “Aha moment” when I attended my first AdobeMax conference in 2014. (You can read more about my experience by viewing my published book project AdobeMax Book) I was so happy that I FINALLY found that passion and professional validation I only dreamt about.

In May 2015, I graduated from the University of Baltimore with a Bachelor’s degree in Digital Communications with a specialization in Design and Production (Magna Cum Laude with Honors from the Helen P. Denit Honors Program). I was so honored to have the opportunity to attend college that during my undergrad and grad degrees, I also worked on campus with many student groups and organizations to increase my real-world use of design skills, event planning, teamwork, and leadership.

I began working on my Master’s degree in the Publications Design program at the University of Baltimore in 2015. During that time, I also worked for the Merrick School of Business as a Creative Manager and Senior Graphic Designer. In 2017, I graduated, but I wanted to learn more. I wanted to further my education in a new field, so I enrolled in a Master’s certification program for User Experience Design. I completed the program certificate in 2018, which has transformed my design process. Now, I have a newfound appreciation for the user experience. Whenever I sit down to design something, I think twice about how people may interact with the design and whether there is a way to simplify the process for the user. This was especially helpful when I was tasked with redesigning the Mercy and Stella Maris Career websites. It was a grueling few years while completing my degrees, but my education and expertise have given me a new lease on life and a sturdy foundation to reach for the stars.

I am still a determined, hard worker and team player. I have worked in many diverse industries and have a vast array of essential knowledge and a keen understanding of the importance of customer service. As the ultimate creative, my ultimate goal is to blow my client’s minds. I want to exceed your expectations. Give me a bar, and I will supersede it. I pride myself on being affluent in many areas of design -in various mediums and mastering the best ways to use them harmoniously.

My journey hasn’t always been easy, but my family is the support that has always gotten me through. They are my rock, inspiring me to find the best “ME” in every situation and reminding me that nothing is as complicated as it seems and that quitting is never an option. My furbaby, Ernie, is not just a dog – he is my son and the love of my life. He teaches me that unconditional love is a gift that should never be taken for granted. He also reinforces my worth and lets me know I am a valuable part of his daily day. If I am not spending time with my family or doting on my boy, you can find me outdoors exploring nature, hiking, boating, swimming, or camping. I love how nature can revitalize the creative process.

These combined talents and more will make me a valuable asset to any team. I have created some exciting projects for you to view. Look at my portfolio or check out the links to my social media accounts to see more of my work.

Dawn