Alumni Stories

Courtney DeYoung, a CCAD Fine Arts grad, creates hypoallergenic, hand-painted porcelain jewelry with whimsical and natural elements. Her pieces, priced $24-$140, feature florals, animals, and patterns. DeYoung, inspired by Scandinavian designs and cute animals, is a frequent vendor at CCAD's Art Fairs and will join the first CCAD Alumni Art & Design Market.

PJ Sedgwick, a CCAD alum, blends her design expertise with a passion for equestrianism, launching BOTORI, offering functional yet stylish apparel.

CCAD grad Jonathan Knodell (Industrial Design, 2005) led the design for the Rolling Stones flagship store, RS No. 9 Carnaby, blending rock and retail in an immersive experience.

Artist and longtime CCAD Continuing & Professional Studies Instructor Bryan Moss can add another title to his already impressive resume: caretaker of Aminah Robinson’s longtime home and studio in Columbus’ East Side.

CCAD alum Derick Whitson (Photography, 2014) features in "Por Los Ojos De Mi Gente" at Baxter St, NYC, showcasing works by POC and Queer artists until July 24, 2020.

Callan Prakel (Master of Fine Arts, 2021) earned their bachelor’s degree from Capital University in art therapy, psychology, and studio art, but at heart, they always knew they were a maker. So, heading to Columbus College of Art & Design for a Master of Fine Art in Visual Arts seemed like the next logical step.

Sarah Schmidt, CCAD alum, founded Malt Adult to promote indie animation. Celebrating 3rd anniversary with featured artist Victoria Douglas. Event transformed into a community hub. Schmidt evolved personally, embracing freelance work. Memorable moments include hosting artists like Jeron Braxton and Jonni Phillips at CCAD.

Cat Sheridan (Fine Arts, 2003) believes we all deserve original artwork in our lives, regardless of our age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status.

For Allison McGovney (Fine Arts, 2020), a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend an internationally recognized center for glass art education this summer—funded by a CCAD scholarship—has sparked a newfound obsession with the medium of glassblowing.

A Columbus College of Art & Design grad reflects on her creative and professional pursuits and a surprising Steve Jobs connection.

Otherworld, an art installation in a former Sports Authority, features CCAD alum Scott Schaaf as Art Director. The immersive space, praised by major outlets, showcases works from 40+ artists.

You dedicated years to your CCAD education, and we consider you a CCAD family member for life. (Congratulations⁠—you’ve earned it!) But being an alum isn’t just something you are, it’s something you do.