For SEO purposes (and because it’s true):
Jonel is a creative powerhouse who people
trust to get shit done.
I’m a creative thinker, designer, illustrator, copywriter, and writer who likes to shift gears as the work calls for it. I wear a lot of hats—and I’m pretty good at knowing which one to put on when.
In summer 2025, I joined my alma mater, the University of Memphis, as Creative Strategist, helping shape the creative direction for the University’s brand. My work spans large-scale, high-profile initiatives, including the University’s recent rebrand, art direction for photo and video productions, and the design and art direction of flagship publications such as The University of Memphis Magazine, Fogelman Focus, and Memphis Law magazine.
Before returning to the University, I served as Director of Marketing and Communications at Epicenter until October 2024, leading brand design and producing branded content that supported entrepreneurs across the Greater Memphis region. Before Epicenter, I worked on the eleventh floor of Ogilvy and Mather as a hybrid designer and art director, contributing to creative work for brands like Motorola, Nationwide, American Express, and Gerber.
As a self-taught designer, I’ve built a versatile creative practice grounded in curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to figure things out. Whether I’m illustrating, designing for print and digital, or leading complex initiatives alongside designers and creative partners, I enjoy finding unconventional, unexpected, and fun ways to solve business problems.
I’m also passionate about helping students and junior-level creatives find their footing and build successful careers in design and marketing. Outside of work, you’ll likely find me cheering on women’s basketball (Go Aces!), attempting to master the perfect omelette, and/or nerding out about some tiny corner of the Marvel TV and cinematic universe.