hello :)

  • I’m Crystal, a Creative Director with 17 years of experience building brands, creative systems, and immersive experiences that connect strategy with storytelling. My work spans brand identity, live events, product launches, editorial campaigns, and digital experiences—always focused on creating work that is thoughtful, scalable and impactful.

    I currently lead the global design team at POLITICO, partnering across North America and Europe with Live events, Marketing, Product, Media Solutions, HR and the Newsroom. From high-profile political events and product launches to large-scale brand rollouts and systems. I help shape creative from concept through execution while building systems that keep teams aligned and work moving efficiently.

    Beyond leading creative direction, I’m passionate about evolving how design teams work. I enjoy mentoring designers, developing collaborative processes, and exploring how AI, motion and emerging creative tools can elevate storytelling, workflow and interactive experiences. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with AI-driven collaborative system experiences, generative visuals and digital storytelling concepts that blend design, technology and strategy in new ways.

    At the core of my work is a balance between craft and clarity, building bold creative that not only looks strong, but works hard.

    I’m currently refreshing this portfolio with new work, interactive case studies and experimental AI-driven projects — more coming soon.

  • BFA, Graphic Design – California State University, Long Beach | 2007-2012

    MA, Artificial Intelligence Marketing & Design - Academy of Art University | In Progress

  • Global Creative Director / Art Director 2018-present —- POLITICO

    Lead/Senior Graphic Designer 2013-2018 —- Mile 9 Agency, Discovery Inc., POLITICO

    Graphic Designer 2013-2009 —- International Sports Sciences Association, True Colors Inc., Ontraport

    detailed resume on request

  • POLITICO Global Rebrand Branding & Visual Identity | White House Correspondents Reception | CNN x POLITICO Grill @ the Conventions | British Embassy Political Debate parties | POLITICO Pub, U.S. & London | Adweek | Shape Magazine | FLEX Magazine | M&F Hers Magazine | Sundance Film Festival | K-Swiss | NutriBullet | TLC, Say Yes to the Prom | Shark Week | Civil Society Rebrand | Indigo Star Rebrand | Discovery Channel | Investigation Discovery Channel | Science Channel | Leroy Dixon (Olympic Athlete) | Kelli Michele (Author)

  • Digiday Media Awards Europe 2026 Best Event – POLITICO Pub

    POLITICO of the Year – honored to be 1 of 5 nominees, 2023.

    Nominees are POLITICOs who were identified by their POLITICO colleagues for making invaluable contributions to the publication while embodying our POLITICO values.