RIT Dining | Role: Creative Director & Graphic Designer | Year: 2025
Problem:
Through a perception survey, we identified that many students felt disconnected and bored, particularly during the winter months. There was a common sentiment of "nothing to do" due to limited walkability and a lack of off-campus access. Additionally, respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of creature comforts they had anticipated, such as a vibrant dorm life, healthy meals, and opportunities for making friends.
Solution:
To address these challenges, my team and I spearheaded the rebranding of the RITZ Sports Zone to RITZ, with a shift in focus from sports to community spirit. The goal was to create a space where students could connect with each other and foster a sense of belonging at RIT.
We designed a week-long launch event filled with interactive activities: charm bracelet-making, trivia, photos with Ritchie and Balloon Ritchie, table games, giveaways, and more. This dynamic set of events aimed to bring students together and energize them about the new vision for the space.
Additionally, we implemented key facility improvements, including updated signage and a refreshed entrance, to make the space more inviting. The new identity and emphasis on spirit—not sports—helped to transform the RITZ into a vibrant community hub where students could unwind, connect, and show their RIT pride.
Case study video
Results:
Successfully launched the RITZ branding, using surveys to collect post-event sentiment and compare it to pre-launch research conducted through student focus groups, 239 Google reviews, and Reddit social listening. This strengthened student belonging, with a survey of 104 students showing positive reception (45 somewhat satisfied, 49 extremely satisfied). Increased staff morale and engagement led to friendlier student interactions, tying the event to dining goals and addressing the RIT Retention survey's focus on fostering a sense of belonging.
Before
After
Process of creating the wall mural
1. Draft designs of the wall mural
The goal is to design a wall that is visually captivating and Instagram-worthy, serving as an engaging
backdrop for photos.
Final design of the wall
Final wall mocked up
Process of creating the wall mural
- We used a projector and chalk to trace and then painted the wall
- We partnered witht he RIT Housing, House of The Arts special interest houisng to help us paint the mural.
