MEET MORE OF OUR 2024 WOMEN OF DISTINCTION
In 2022, Stacey Steinberg founded the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design’s marketing and communication department. She and MIAD President Jeffrey Morin envisioned a new department that would craft and guide the school’s branding to reach potential students, families, supporters and more.
“I see the work that my team and I do as a service to our community,” says Steinberg. “In service to our internal community, our academic areas, our galleries, our admissions and student services staff but also in service to our community partners.”
Steinberg’s relationship with MIAD started long before she took her leadership role. In fact, she started as a pre-college student in 1999. In 2000, she enrolled in the degree program and four years later, she graduated with a major in fine arts.
“I see the work that my team and I do as a service to our community.”
After graduation, she returned to the college as an admissions counselor, eventually serving as director of admissions before serving in her current role. As an alum and an artist, Steinberg balances insight and experience to drive MIAD’s mission forward. She will be showing her artwork at MIAD’s 50th anniversary alumni exhibit that runs through Nov. 21.
“One of the best parts of establishing this department has been the opportunity to really feel like we are woven into the MIAD community,” says Steinberg. “It goes back to being in service to everyone and fusing the fabric that brings us all together.”
Q&A
What’s it like being in a role where every day looks different?
MIAD is definitely a place where we all wear a lot of hats. Our roles are blended. If I had to retitle my job, I’d probably go with “project manager extraordinaire.” I’m constantly moving between meetings, jumping into InDesign or Photoshop, editing, loading content to social platforms, checking comments, or grabbing photos with my iPhone. I also interface with the media, check in with Jeff or another VP, and even have lunch with faculty members.
How has the brand refresh impacted your current work?
The brand refresh continues to impact our work today. We refer back to our brand guide and brand standards regularly, which ensures that all of our work reflects our core values and guiding principles. It was a fundamental moment for us as a new department and a critical milestone in establishing our identity.
