How the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs Transformed Its Identity: A Personal Reflection

I'm excited to share a little piece of my journey – one that's deeply intertwined with the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs and its incredible mission. My connection to the IDVA didn’t begin with this project - it started back when I was in college in Springfield, IL - I was serving in the Illinois Army National Guard and was hired to work for the IDVA as a work-study. I had the privilege to work with amazing individuals like Senator Tammy Duckworth. After serving a tour in Iraq in 2004 the IDVA played an important role in helping me access my Veterans benefits. I never imagined that my path would lead me to play a part in reshaping the identity of an organization that means so much to Illinois veterans, including myself. 

Mosul, Iraq 2004 - I served as a photojournalist in the 139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment. Behind me is one of Saddam Hussein’s palaces that served as our office and command center. Just beyond that is the Tigris River.

The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs has long been a pillar of support for local veterans, but there was something missing in their visual representation – a connection that truly reflected the diverse and vibrant community of veterans they serve. So, armed with passion and purpose, we set out to change that.

Our journey wasn't just about designing a new logo; it was about capturing the essence of what the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs stands for. We delved deep into research, strategy sessions, interviews, and surveys, all aimed at understanding what resonated most with Illinois veterans.

The logo design process begins with sketches - getting as many ideas onto the paper as I can - a visual brainstorm

It was important that this new logo was steeped in  symbolism that would connect to the modern Veteran. The V in the logo became more than just a letter; it became a tribute to the brave men and women who've served our country. Each stripe, representing the six branches of the military(Army, Marines, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard and Space Force), weaved together a story of unity and strength. The star at the center symbolizes the guiding light of the IDVA, always focused on the welfare of the veteran. And the silhouettes? They represented the heart and soul of the veteran community – diverse, resilient, and united in service.

But creating a logo was just the beginning. We wanted to ensure that every aspect of the IDVA's identity reflected the honor and respect they deserve. So, we developed a comprehensive style guide and design system, equipping the IDVA with the tools they need to reach Veterans effectively and authentically.

As I look back on this journey, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to be a part of something truly meaningful. Working with the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs has not only shaped my career as a branding expert but has also reaffirmed my commitment to serving those who've served our country.

So here's to the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs – a beacon of hope, support, and camaraderie for veterans across the state. And here's to the countless veterans whose stories inspire us to keep pushing forward, creating a world where their sacrifices are honored and their voices are heard.

Honoring Women's Legacies: The Women's L Project

As a designer passionate about celebrating women's contributions to history and society, I am thrilled to share the story behind the Women's L Project—a tribute to the remarkable women of Chicago who have left an indelible mark on our world.

The Women's L Project, conceptualized by Janet Volk and brought to life through design, is a testament to the resilience and courage of women who have persevered in male-dominated fields to create meaningful change. It is a celebration of their legacies and an acknowledgment of their often overlooked contributions to social work, justice, the arts, writing, politics, and science.

Throughout history, many of these extraordinary women were denied recognition for their achievements. Their stories remained untold, relegated to the margins of history books. The Women's L Project seeks to change that narrative by shining a spotlight on these trailblazers and ensuring that their legacies endure.

But the project doesn't stop there. It also pays homage to contemporary Chicago women who, despite facing numerous obstacles, continue to make significant contributions to our city, society, and the world at large. Their stories serve as a source of inspiration for all of us, demonstrating the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to positive change.

Central to the Women's L Project is the symbolic renaming of L stops after these remarkable women. By doing so, we not only honor their memory but also invite commuters and passersby to pause and reflect on their stories. Each renamed stop becomes a testament to the resilience and strength of women throughout history, serving as a reminder of the importance of striving for greatness and fostering positive change in our communities.

I invite you to learn more about the Women's L Project and the incredible women it honors by visiting womenslproject.com. Together, let us celebrate the legacies of these remarkable women and be inspired to make a difference in our own lives and communities.

An Interview with Voyage Chicago

Voyage Chicago is a website highlighting the amazing people who make up the vibrant neighborhoods of the city we call home. When Voyage asked me to sit down and talk about my creative journey I was ecstatic. Learn more about me and my journey here!  

Photo by Julie Dietz