Crafting Design. Leading with Empathy.
Hi, I’m Lotenna.
I am a hands-on design leader, which means I help teams create user-centered, scalable solutions that drive meaningful engagement and solve complex product challenges through inclusive, impactful design.
My Route to Design Leadership
Discover the stages of my career journey, showcasing the evolution from hands-on problem-solving to orchestrating broad-scale creative strategies.
Tech-Savvy Beginnings
Kickstarted my career with technical expertise, fixing credit card machines and developing problem-solving skills.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Stepped into the world of entrepreneurship, gaining invaluable business acumen and resilience.
Digital Creativity
Merged technical skills with creativity as a Flash Designer & Developer, crafting innovative digital solutions.
Artistic Influence
Rose to an Art Director role, leading creative campaigns and sharpening my expertise in advertising strategy and execution.
Team Inspiration
Evolved into a creative leadership role, guiding diverse teams towards collaborative success.
Cultivating Creative Vision
Transitioned into a design executive role, setting the vision and guiding the department's direction, blending leadership with strategic insight to foster a dynamic design culture.
Design Talks
Design Observer
The Design Observer’s The Design of Business | The Business of Design podcast (who has had clients of all sorts of industries, designers, and creatives the likes of Janelle Monáe) – invited me to the show to be interviewed by Jessica Helfand and Ellen McGirt. I had a blast ... listen.
SpeedBumps Live!
In my discussion with Speedbumps, we explored the evolving role of creative teams, their collaboration with marketing for authentic branding, and the importance of inclusion in design. It was a truly insightful exchange ... watch.
UCI presents Exploring Design + Ethics
It was an evening of community, thought leadership and practical guidance as we explored equal parts “how might we” and “well should we". I was invited to be part of such an amazing panel at UC Irvine.
AdForum – Super Bowl LII
Advertising strategy during the big game, which demographics are being left out, favorite spots and my approach to brands. AdForum wanted to know. ... read
AAF District 4
AAF (American Advertising Federation) district 4 invited me to be interviewed, speak, and be a judge for the AD Path Student Conference ... here
Pancake Luncheon (Podcast)
Pancake Luncheon is a series of conversations between 3 friends who happen to have different professions that only overlap in the corporate norms shared on each episode. A startup founder, a seasoned executive and a creative leader have candid discussions about life in and out of the office … enjoy.
Discord Marketing Academy Fireside Chat
I had the privilege of speaking with Discord's team. Our conversation kicked off with a lively Rapid Fire Warm-up. We delved into the nuances of working in agency versus client-side environments and explored various strategies for revolutionizing workplace culture. Additionally, we discussed various approaches to decision-making and communication, among other key topics.
Shared Thoughts
I want to be a Creative Director
So you decided you really want to be a CD. I’m so happy you chose this path. There are so many stories and adventures. Filled with joy and pain. Stress and excitement. Nervousness. Victory. And a ton of amazing people … read more
Fear is Better Than Respect
When I was a boy, I heard “fear is better than respect”. I took it as you needed to make sure people feared you so respect was always shown. This would lead to tasks always being completed correctly. The meaner you were … read more
I Met
MC Hammer Once.
I started to play the Viola when I was 8. And the cello when I was 12.
I had a podcast with two friends of mine.
She let me take the picture with my hat on.
I still paint sometimes.
I love to time travel with the music.
I enjoyed making these.
Delicious Japanese ceviche in Chicago.
F.I.L.A.
I Met
MC Hammer Once.
I started to play the Viola when I was 8. And the cello when I was 12.
I had a podcast with two friends of mine.
She let me take the picture with my hat on.
I still paint sometimes.
I love to time travel with the music.
I enjoyed making these.
Delicious Japanese ceviche in Chicago.
F.I.L.A.