Visual Communication Design alumna Loretta Ford, M.F.A., ‘21, received the opportunity of a lifetime when she was sought out by Microsoft to illustrate a new children’s book that is part of the Phippy and Friends series.
The Microsoft series aims to explain complex computer programming concepts to children through fun and easy-to-understand stories. Each story is told by animated animal characters that audiences of all ages can relate to. Ford’s illustrations are featured in
The opportunity to partner with Microsoft came about when an old friend from high school messaged Ford and said that she had been following her work for years. That friend mentioned that she worked for Microsoft and that they needed an illustrator for an upcoming project.
“I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” Ford says.
Ford is a graduate of Kent State’s Visual Communication Design Master of Fine Arts program. She has found importance in using her skills as an illustrator to speak for the trees, wildlife, and the voiceless resources for climate injustices.
She is now an adjunct professor at Kent State in the School of Visual Communication Design and teaches Design Illustration Tech I and II. She says: “I always tell my students to bring their everyday passions into their work. Visual communicators are needed in practically every corner of the globe, so there is always room for your individuality and unique skills. Plus, I believe it’s important to do what you love.”