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Sue Jenkins
Sue Jenkins, Associate Professor of Graphic Design and Photography at Marywood University, has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between art and technology. With over two decades of professional experience, Jenkins is not only an accomplished web and graphic designer but also an award-winning Adobe Certified Expert and Instructor. As the founder and creative director of Luckychair.com, a full-service design studio, she has served businesses nationwide since 1997.
Jenkins' expertise extends beyond design; she is also a prolific author, having penned numerous instructional books on web design, Dreamweaver, Illustrator, and Photoshop. Her works, including Smashing Photoshop: 100 Professional Techniques and Web Design All-in-One For Dummies, have become essential resources for both budding and seasoned designers.
At Marywood, Jenkins takes on multiple roles, including Foundation Year Coordinator and Photography Program Coordinator. She also serves as the editor of the university’s Where Creativity Works art blog, a thriving platform where 12-18 students share their unique experiences about studying art each week. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of user-centered design, technical proficiency, and creative problem-solving—skills that are crucial in today’s digital landscape.
“At Marywood University, I strive to create inclusive classrooms where all students feel valued and respected, along with a curriculum that integrates theory and practice, ensuring that students develop a strong foundation in art, design, and critical thinking while also honing their artistic abilities,” Jenkins shares. “In design, it's essential to strike a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.”
Jenkins has long been a guiding light for her students, fostering their growth both academically and personally. As a mentor, she is known for her unwavering support, inspirational teaching style, and commitment to helping her students achieve their fullest potential. Among those who have benefited from her mentorship is Lilli Millon, an MFA student who will soon be stepping into the role of Jenkins' graduate work study assistant.
"I feel incredibly fortunate to have Sue in my life," says Millon. "Since she took me under her wing in 2019, we've built a strong bond, and now, as I approach the end of my MFA program, it feels like things have come full circle working alongside her as her graduate work study assistant. Sue has profoundly impacted my life as a professor, mentor, and friend, and I hope to inspire others in the same way she has inspired me."
Jenkins’ influence reaches far beyond the classroom. She has been a key instructor for Lynda.com and LinkedIn Learning, where her training programs in Adobe software and design aesthetics have educated countless individuals across the globe. Her contributions to the field of design are not just limited to her students at Marywood; they resonate throughout the entire industry, solidifying her legacy as a leader in digital design and education.
Christine Medley, Associate Professor of Graphic Design and Printmaking at Marywood and one of Jenkins' colleagues, echoes these sentiments.
“Sue amazes me in how much she can get done in a day," Medley shares. "She is fearless and enthusiastic about tackling projects, especially the ones that benefit the students. She really goes all out to support and nurture our students and sets a great example of what the life of a creative can be. We are so lucky to have Sue in the art department."
In every aspect of her work, Jenkins exemplifies the perfect blend of creativity, technical expertise, and a deep commitment to education, making her a true trailblazer in the fields of graphic design, photography, and digital media.
"Above all, I believe it's important to pass on the knowledge and experience I've gained throughout my deliciously wide career," Jenkins adds. "Teaching the next generation of designers allows me to contribute to the future of the field. I'm passionate about equipping students with the tools and knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the world through the application of design."