Alumni Features

Art History

• Nikki Dewberry - Art History

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  Spring Poppies in the English Garden by Nikki Dewberry.

• Kodie Mahone - Art History

   

  My name is Kodie Mahone, and I graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2022 with a degree in Art History. I was also the recipient of the Outstanding Graduate Award. Upon graduation, I accepted a full-time position at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in Jacksonville, Florida, serving as a lead gallery host in the Visitor Experience Department. I gave tours on topics important to me, including those focused on marginalized groups such as women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ artists. I recently moved to Gainesville, Florida, and was accepted into the University of Florida’s Art History Master’s Program, where I hope to continue researching marginalized and overlooked artists and expand the canon of art history. The support I received from UNF’s incredible art history faculty was instrumental in motivating me to further my education. Dr. Brown, Dr. Heuer, Dr. Murphy, and Professor West were all essential figures in my educational journey. Advice for Students: Get to know your professors and never be afraid to ask for help. The faculty at UNF want to see you succeed and will do everything in their power to help you achieve your goals. Connect: LinkedIn

Ceramics

• Phillip Finder - Ceramics

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• Ashley Maxwell - Ceramics

  Hi, my name is Ashley Maxwell and I graduated in 2010 from UNF with my BFA with a concentration in ceramics. Currently, I own and operate my personal studio, Nyx and Lore Ceramics, which primarily focuses on social media-driven sales. My experience at UNF provided me with a well-rounded understanding of various media and how they can intersect to help define one’s unique artistic voice. The ceramic program gave me a strong foundation in ceramic practices while exposing me to a wide range of techniques and creative possibilities. Professor Heywood played a pivotal role in helping me navigate the options available for building a professional career after graduation. After earning my MFA, the structure of the ceramic classes at UNF had a lasting impact on my approach to teaching at various universities before transitioning to full-time studio practice. Advice for Students: Don’t be afraid to step away from what you think you should be creating and focus on what you want to create. Trust your instincts and passions. In today’s world, with social media at your fingertips, you have the ability to reach a global audience. Make the work that speaks to you, and your people will find you. Connect: nyxandlore.com Instagram: @nyxloreceramics TikTok: @nyxloreceramics LinkedIn

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• William Mueller - Ceramics

  Ceramics · BFA · Communications/Advertising · BA · Class of 2018 · MFA Ball State University

  Current Role: I currently own my own cabinet shop creating custom cabinets, built-ins, closets, pantries, and more. I meet with clients to discuss their goals, create CAD files of the proposed project, use a CNC machine to cut out cabinet parts, mill down rough lumber for doors and face frames, and install everything to deliver a turnkey package. How UNF Shaped My Path: I knew I wanted to be creative and decided on advertising, but after my internship I knew the office life was not for me. At the time I was taking a ceramics class with Stephen Heywood and fell in love with the hands-on aspect. I realized I enjoyed the troubleshooting aspect of working in three dimensions — a problem solving I had never come across before. If I had not made the jump to add a second major I surely would not be where I am today. Faculty That Made an Impact: Stephen Heywood, Trevor Dunn, Jenny Hager, Lance Vickery, Julie Chabrian, Sheila Goloborotko — everyone was in it with me. It really felt like we were on a team. The art department was unlike any classroom I had been a part of. We all seemed to work together to create and solve problems to advance each other’s work. Skills I Still Use Today: Ray Gonzalez introduced me to 3D printing during a studio visit, which led to understanding CAD and other manufacturing processes that are a cornerstone of how I make a living today. Trevor’s saying — “perfect is good enough” — has also stuck with me when delivering dream projects for clients. Advice for Students: Your degree is worth what you make of it. Take advantage of every single resource available. Annoy your teachers with questions, make much more than your assigned work, and talk to faculty in other departments. There is a good chance you will never have access to something so amazing again. Push yourselves, learn something new, have fun, make weird stuff, fail, learn! Network & Community: Trevor and I still keep in contact regularly. The education I received from UNF has not stopped the moment I walked across the stage — I still continue to foster relationships and learn from the people I met there.

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Graphic Design

• Devin Carvajal - Graphic Design

  Graphic Design & Digital Media · BFA · Class of 2020

  Hello! I’m Devin Carvajal, a proud 2020 graduate of UNF with a Fine Arts degree, specializing in Graphic Design & Digital Media. Currently, I serve as the Creative Content Manager and Lead Graphic Designer for the Jacksonville Jaguars’ social media team. My role focuses on driving fan engagement and enhancing the Jaguars’ brand across digital platforms. I oversee the creative process for content, graphics, photography, and campaign rollouts, ensuring every deliverable reflects the team’s identity. As the design lead for high-profile NFL events—like the Draft, Combine, Free Agency, and Schedule Release—I strive to deliver impactful and cohesive visuals across all platforms. (And yes, I pretty much get to make memes for a living!) Some of the projects I’m especially proud to have been a part of include our 2024 Throwback Uniform Reveal rollout, the Lafavre x Jaguars collaboration, and illustrating my first children’s book, Jaxson’s Big Jump. Advice for Students Breaking into Sports Creative: Get in where you fit in – It might not be your dream role right away, but your first step can be the foundation for building that dream job. Be yourself & come correct – Creatives are usually pretty chill, but don’t just network for the sake of finding a job. Make genuine connections. Expand your network – Reach out to people in adjacent fields or different departments within the same organization—you never know where opportunities might come from. Always share your work – You never know who’s watching. Connect: Portfolio Instagram: @devincarvajal Creative Instagram: @carvajalcreative X: @DevCarvajal Gondola LinkedIn

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• Justin Luong - Graphic Design

  Graphic Design & Digital Media · BFA · Class of 2024 · Outstanding Graduate Award

  Hello! I’m Justin Luong, and I graduated from UNF with a BFA in Graphic Design & Digital Media in May 2024. I’m currently working as a Junior Graphic Designer at Trailer Park Group | Art Machine, an entertainment advertising agency based in Los Angeles. Fresh out of school, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to contribute to campaigns for clients like Peacock, Universal, Netflix, Paramount+, and more! As a junior designer, I focus on bringing fresh creative ideas to the table, supporting the team wherever needed, and most importantly, continuing to learn and grow in the fast-paced world of entertainment. In my role, I’ve been lucky to work on a wide range of projects, from DOOH campaigns and lower thirds/snipes for streaming/TV, to social media graphics and email marketing designs. One of my favorite projects so far has been designing a Peacock email for Wicked. Huge thank you to the professors at UNF who have been such a strong anchor—believing in me, guiding me, and encouraging me to chase whatever my heart desires! Advice for Students: Be ambitious. When I graduated, my portfolio had zero entertainment work in it. But I was determined and hardworking. Know your worth, trust your ability, and don’t be afraid to go after what you really want. Network like crazy. My favorite motto for recent grads is: “Nothing to lose, everything to gain.” I cold messaged tons of professionals on LinkedIn and Instagram and even flew out to LA to meet people in person. Don’t wait for opportunities. Create them. Be yourself, genuinely. Your personality is just as important as your portfolio. Stay true to your creative voice, and always lead with kindness. The people around you today may become your teammates tomorrow. Have fun with it. We get to create visuals that entertain, inspire, and connect with people. That’s a privilege. Enjoy the process and celebrate the wins—big or small. Connect: Portfolio Instagram: @llamastin LinkedIn

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Painting/Drawing

• Danielle Klebes - Painting & Drawing

  Painting & Drawing · BFA · Class of 2012

  Hello! I am Danielle Klebes. I majored in art and graduated in 2012. Current Role: I am a practicing artist and also the Programming and Exhibitions Coordinator at the Wassaic Project in Wassaic, NY. The Wassaic Project is a non-profit artist residency, exhibition space, and education center. In my job, I work closely with artists who participate in the exhibition and residency programs and I help install/deinstall all exhibitions. How UNF Shaped My Path: My high school art teacher had told me great things about Louise Freshman Brown and separately I was a big fan of Jason John’s paintings. They both were incredible teachers at UNF and super influential for me. Network & Opportunities: I was in the 50 show at Jax MoCA, which was super cool. I am also about to be a visiting artist and have a solo show at York College of Pennsylvania, which is through Matt Clay Robison, my drawing teacher my freshman year at UNF. Connect: www.danielleklebes.com Instagram: @danielleklebes

Photography

• Hillary Jones McCullough - Photography

  Photography · BFA · Class of 2013

  Current Role: I am currently the Instructor of Photography at Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, FL. How UNF Shaped My Path: I chose the UNF art program specifically for the photography program. It was important to me to choose a program that valued teaching analog photo processes, and the Photo program at UNF offered that opportunity. Skills I Still Use Today: I learned how to work with Alternative/Historical Photo processes, which I specialize in to this day. One of my professors and mentors at UNF gave me the opportunity to unofficially “TA” in his alternative process class, which kickstarted my passion for photographic education and played a key role in my wanting to pursue graduate school. Advice for Students: TAKE ALL THE CLASSES! Don’t be scared of “failure” — we all make “bad” art. It’s necessary for your growth and advancement as an artist. You can’t make good art without making “bad” art. Network & Community: I am very fortunate to have so many professors and classmates from my time at UNF help write reference letters, inform of job opportunities, and some of them I still consider mentors to this day. Connect: www.hillarymccullough.com Instagram: @hillarymccullough

Sculpture

• Ian Skinner - Sculpture

  Sculpture · BFA · Class of 2016 · MFA University of Mississippi

  Current Role: I am currently the foundry manager for Sloss Metal Arts, a non-profit arts institution based out of a national historic landmark in Birmingham, AL. I manage a team of resident artists who help me facilitate the organization’s multifaceted daily operations, including public and private commission work, outreach programming, and the upkeep of facilities and upgrades. How UNF Shaped My Path: I initially attended FSCJ and upon earning my associate’s degree was looking to gain a more terminal degree in Sculpture. UNF was the logical choice — at the time the sculpture program was small but very active, and the lack of a graduate program gave the students a ton of opportunities. Standout Accomplishments: There are too many to list, but some larger ones would be gaining my Master’s Degree from The University of Mississippi, the time and work produced while as the blacksmithing apprentice at The Ornamental Metal Museum in Memphis, TN, and my ongoing position as foundry manager for Sloss Metal Arts. Advice for Students: The hustle is real! Work hard, always keep learning, focus on craftsmanship, and stay humble. There is a lot more to a career as an artist than just producing work for a gallery so don’t get hung up on it. Have fun, work harder, and make beautiful objects. Network & Community: Through artistic collaborations, helping facilitate the production of art, or even sending work their way — the network connections built at UNF continue to be a vital part of my career. I continue to work with professors, classmates, and alumni on an almost daily basis. Connect: ianskinnerart.com Instagram: @ianskinneart

• Mary Ratcliff - Sculpture

  Sculpture · BFA · Class of 2017

  Current Role: I serve as the Program Coordinator for Northern Virginia Community College’s Fab Lab, a digital makerspace that includes a full woodshop and classroom. My team supports students, faculty, and staff by facilitating access to equipment and software through hands-on training, workshops, and collaborative courses. We also engage in K-12 outreach and offer professional development opportunities for regional educators. Additionally, I am an adjunct instructor, teaching 3D Design and Sculpture I courses. How UNF Shaped My Path: My professional journey began at UNF, where I was fortunate to learn from exceptional mentors, Jenny Hager and Lance Vickery. They are deeply committed to providing students with transformative educational experiences that extend beyond technical skills to include entrepreneurship, leadership, and community engagement. The Sculptures on Campus program allowed me to build a robust portfolio, including five large-scale sculptures, which played a key role in securing a graduate assistantship at Louisiana State University. Additionally, the strong metal casting program at UNF laid the foundation for me to revitalize LSU’s casting program. While there, I co-founded the Society of Sculptors student club and organized two intercollegiate iron pours, exposing dozens of students to the art of iron casting. Standout Accomplishments: I am currently co-leading a National Science Foundation (NSF) Advanced Technological Education grant. The project, BUILD: Futures in Welding and Fabrication, focuses on modernizing the college’s welding curriculum through a fabrication capstone course using CAD and a CNC plasma cutter — similar to the experiences I had at UNF. Another memorable project was working on the NFL Super Bowl commercial Bring Down The House. I was brought on as a mold maker for the fabrication team, creating molds for miniature 3D-printed heads of NFL players used as silicone puppet heads in the commercial. It was an incredibly fun and unique experience. Advice for Students: Be ambitious and work hard. Connect: www.maryratcliff.com Instagram: @mary.ratcliff.art Instagram (Work): @novafablab

• Julie Chabrian - Sculpture

  Sculpture · BFA · Class of 2009 · MFA SIUC 2012

  My name is Julie Chabrian and I earned a BFA in Sculpture from UNF in 2009, and went on to earn a MFA in Sculpture from SIUC in 2012. In addition to being a professional sculptor, I also own a business providing services for repairs on large public sculptures for museums, universities and private collections. My success runs on the power of a strong work ethic and creative problem solving. After being involved with a UNF iron pour for the first time I realized that having the integrity to put in the time and effort to accomplish a project made all the difference in the outcome. Your work ethic and integrity – good or bad – will follow you along your career. Events like iron pours, where you had to hand mix 150 pounds of sand in a wheelbarrow, break cast-iron bath tubs into Dorito sized pieces, and then pour a ladle carrying 125 pounds of molten iron, instilled a sense of responsibility with consequences — not only for yourself, as your classmates rely on you for their safety and the outcome of their projects as well. It was also at UNF where I began to learn the notion of “asymmetrical tactics” — aka creative problem solving — and it has become a staple in the way I work. It’s not about what you need to accomplish something — it’s about how to get it done with what you have. Art pushes boundaries and experimentation of ideas, and figuring out how to do it with what you have is the magic of asymmetrical tactics. In my time at UNF I was fortunate to have a faculty committed to seeking out opportunities on my behalf, and I’ve since learned this is uncommon. The interactions and relationships cultivated at UNF created a strong foundation of mentors and colleagues whose knowledge and ventures I still engage with today. No matter where my career takes me I know I am standing on a strong foundation that started with my family, strengthened with learned skills and relationships established at UNF, and which continues to solidify over the trials of my career.

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