Interior view of the STRIVE Center at PennWest California, featuring signage labeled Values, Education, Research, and Technology in a modern collaborative space.

STRIVE Center: UX Design, Branding, and Wayfinding

Overview

The STRIVE Center, an innovation-driven hub at PennWest California, bridges students, faculty, and employers through a collaborative environment. As part of the center’s launch, I co-designed its environmental identity and wayfinding system. My goal was to craft a visually cohesive, engaging, and accessible experience for students and visitors.

Contributions

Logos & Wayfinding Signage Design

I designed a set of department logos and collaborated on intuitive wayfinding signage. Drawing inspiration from the STRIVE principles (Science, Technology, Research, Innovation, Values, Education), I created a system balancing clarity, branding, and usability.

Developed department-specific logos aligned with STRIVE principles, conveying belonging and purpose.
Assisted the codesigner with wayfinding signage using clear typography, color-coding, and accessible iconography for easy navigation.

Iterative Design Process

The department logos evolved through continuous feedback and stakeholder collaboration. While one logo was approved initially, the rest underwent multiple revision rounds to refine symbolism and consistency.

First Round: One logo was approved, featuring strong symbolism connected to STRIVE values.
Revisions: Remaining logos were adjusted for clarity, cohesion, and alignment with PennWest branding.
Final Outcome: A cohesive visual identity system supporting the center’s mission.

Moodboard & Mockup

Moodboard for STRIVE Center branding showing color palettes, typography, and design inspiration reflecting innovation and education. — Moodboard used to define the visual identity

I created a moodboard inspired by PennWest’s branding, the center’s physical space, and the broader visual language of higher education to inform a modern, accessible design approach.

Designed digital mockups showing signage and logo applications in the STRIVE Center environment.

Key Features

Typography: Clean, progressive fonts aligned with PennWest branding and the STRIVE ethos.
Color Palette: Primary PennWest colors, complemented by dynamic gold accents to highlight Global Online.
Layout: Clear, accessible signage promoting intuitive navigation.
Adaptable Assets: Flexible assets for both physical signage and digital platforms to support long-term growth.

Final Deliverables

A grid of blue and red triangular department logos representing Chemistry, Biology, Computing, and Business fields for the STRIVE Center at PennWest. — Initial & Final STRIVE department logos

Department logos and wayfinding signage designs for the STRIVE Center.
Mockups and specifications for signage fabrication and installation.
Print-ready and digital asset packages for ongoing use.

Reflection

This project allowed me to merge UX design, branding, and spatial storytelling in a real-world educational environment. It sharpened my iterative design skills, problem-solving abilities, and stakeholder collaboration, all while contributing to a center grounded in innovation, education, and community-building.

It’s rewarding to know my designs help guide visitors through a space built for learning, creativity, and connection.