OBJECTIVE
Highly skilled and experienced designer seeking a creative role that aligns with strong core values, leveraging skills honed through a progressive career path in design, marketing, and art merchandising.

CURRENT POSITION 
Communications Coordinator and Research Liason, OHSU
April 2024 - Present
Responsibilities: 
· Utilize design software to create impactful web and print content that effectively communicates complex information to neurodiverse audiences and stakeholders.

PREVIOUS POSITIONS (HIGHLIGHTED ACHIEVEMENTS) 
Communications Manager, Portland Lesbian Choir
2021 - 2022 
Accomplishments: 
· Elevated social media presence by 60% and met record sales targets for major funding events. 
· Designed multi-page booklets, managed stakeholders, and crafted compelling press releases.

Illustrator & Textile Designer, Laundry Studio, 
2023 - 2024
Accomplishments: 
· Designed dynamic textile patterns for renowned apparel companies like Nike. 
· Gained insights into the intricacies of the apparel industry and applied creative expertise accordingly.

Freelance Designer, PSU Office of Research & Graduate Studies (RGS)
2023 - 2024 
Accomplishments:
· Leveraged design expertise to create engaging marketing and outreach materials for versatile event branding. 
· Collaborated closely with Research and Graduate Studies (RGS) employees to uphold brand standards.

VOLUNTEER WORK 
· American Cancer Society: Created dynamic event branding for prestigious Medal of Honor Gala. 
· Western Service Worker’s Union: Educated non-profit staff on Photoshop and completed complex photo edits.

CONTRIBUTIONS & PROJECTS 
· Minted’s LGBTQIA Employee Resource Group: Advised Minted’s elite brand team on inclusive messaging. 
· Quarterly review and discussion of creative grant proposals with Portland’s Regional Arts and Culture Council.

INDEPENDENT PROJECTS 
· Independently designed “Obituary” magazine, receiving positive feedback from industry professionals. 
· Author of “A Neurodivergent Artist’s Manifesto”: a document advocating for neuroinclusivity in the workplace.

SKILLS 
· Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) 
· Marketing Software Proficiency 
· UX Design and Data-driven Design Approaches
· Brand Design and Ideation
· Project Management and Stakeholder Collaboration

EDUCATION
· Bachelor of Graphic Design, Portland State University, Spring 2025
· Minors in Business Management and Computer Science 
· Certification in UX Design, 2021 
· Certification in Digital Marketing, 2024
· Associate of Graphic Design, Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, 2013

CONTACT
cherie.a.valenzuela@gmail.com / 408.420.5396
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