Marketing Designer at Washington Shoe Company

Seattle

Music major 2012

As a marketing designer at Washington Shoe Company, a family-owned business that originated in the Seattle area, Landis works on things such as branding, package design, print and web advertisements, catalogs, and other sales collateral materials.

How does your time at SPU connect to the work you’re doing today?

After graduating from SPU, Landis went on to study graphic design at The Art Institute of Seattle, where she discovered making music is a lot like graphic design in that you’re creating different elements, analyzing and fine-tuning them, and piecing everything together to tell a story or convey a message.

Who made a difference in your SPU education?

Hands down, Dr. Stephen Newby. He’s a true artist with a passion that’s contagious and inspiring. He made me feel seen and heard as a person and musician and encouraged me to share my gifts. A natural mentor, he continuously pushed me to do more than I ever had the courage to do on my own.

What advice do you have for students about life after graduation?

Take risks, do things you’re not sure that you can or want to do, don’t underestimate the power of positive thinking, use your connections (they are everywhere — talk to everyone!), and BE KIND to yourself.