About the Chapter Advisory Council (CAC), South Region Candidate
Jennifer Ford (She/Her)
Resume | LinkedIn (optional) | Website (optional) | Social Media Profile (optional)
Last AIGA Board Position:
President Emeritus, AIGA Gainesville
Bio:
I am the founding president of AIGA Gainesville, a role that involved more than 4.5 years of active community building and leadership. My goal as president of the Gainesville chapter was always to connect designers to members of their local community and to the larger AIGA community. I worked to build bridges between the tech/startup community and local service orgs and fostered collaborative relationships with multiple AIGA chapters.
I am currently the marketing and communications director at the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications and have worked in print and web design for more than 10 years.
Personal Statement:
I have loved connecting Gainesville with other AIGA chapters throughout the South and across the country. I have been able to see how each chapter plays an important part within their individual communities. They are all so different, but seem motivated by many of the same goals and ideals and I think that is what keeps us connected to each other as chapter leaders.
I think the chapters have great opportunities to work together and I would love to support and be a part of that in any way that I can.
Proudest AIGA Moment:
I have a lot of proud AIGA moments. Founding a new chapter is a big one. I learned so much throughout the process and it started long before we became "official." One major thing that I learned is that there is a lot of work that no one will ever see me do. And that's okay.
I think our ability to be flexible and adapt has been our strength as a chapter. If I were to change something, I would try to train every board member from the beginning about running a nonprofit instead of trying to do it myself.
Point of View:
I have worked with multiple chapters and initiatives during my time as an AIGA leader and can offer a variety of viewpoints and experiences. In addition, I started my board experience with AIGA during a transition period within the organization and can talk to leaders about being adaptable and growing through change.
I also supervise and teach undergrad and graduate students in my career. I have always tried to focus on their growth as leaders and professionals during their time with me and feel as though deeper connections and open lines of communication are formed this way.