When their designer had a family emergency weeks before their symposium, the College of Charleston Avery Research Center needed a graphic designer who could move fast on multiple pieces for their event. I stepped in to create and a 52-page program, six environmental posters, and attendee materials in less than 2 weeks.

The symposium, Those Who Have Must Turn Around and Give: Celebrating 40 Years of Preserving Black History and Education, marked the Avery Research Center’s 40th anniversary. The three-day event brought together scholars, educators, archivists, community leaders, and advocates to explore the preservation of Black history and the future of Black education. The visual concept centered on historic photographs that documented Black education and community life. A photograph of a young girl reaching for a book in a library became the project’s anchor image. I carried this image throughout the program, posters, and notebook to create continuity across every touchpoint. Additional archival photographs reinforced the symposium’s themes of preservation, scholarship, and collective memory.

The venue posters helped attendees navigate multiple locations and concurrent sessions. Each poster combined wayfinding information with event schedules and session highlights, including a QR code to a digital program. Clear hierarchy and thoughtful organization allowed visitors to find information quickly while maintaining the visual integrity of the overall design system.

This project required strong graphic design skills, rapid decision-making, and careful production management. I developed a complete visual language, organized a large volume of content, and delivered every piece on deadline. The final materials supported a landmark anniversary event while honoring the Avery Research Center’s mission to preserve, share, and celebrate African American history and culture.