QU Design Course Assists Adams County Court

Quincy University’s ART 455 (Advanced Graphic Design) course spent the Spring semester assisting the Adams County Court System improve their visibility.  QU alumna Shelby Hoiness ‘16,  Assistant Public Defender for Adams County, contacted Professor Gary Meacher in hopes of finding a student willing to do some design work for Adams County Courts.  Hoiness is also a member of the Problem-Solving Court team in Adams County, a group that helps defendants (and often repeat offenders) adjust to a healthier lifestyle.

Professor Meacher turned the idea into a class project so his students could engage with the community and work within real-world limitations.

”Any project that ends with being graded and stacked on my desk is a missed opportunity,” said Gary Meacher, M.F.A., assistant professor of design. “I want our students to see their work in action whether it be working with real clients, non-profit organizations, or through service.”

The design challenge—develop an informational poster to help communicate the opportunity Problem-Solving Court gives people who are struggling to make a positive change in their life and who often find themselves stuck in a negative cycle.

The Advanced Graphic Design students researched the court, the target audience, local demographic information, and the environment in which the poster might be displayed. They spoke with graduates of the program, people who have taken the steps to turn their life around, gaining insight into what drives people to participate.

All of the students completed the project with viable solutions, but the Problem-Solving Court team had final say on which one would be best to print and display in a variety of locations. Peyton Wiseman’s work was chosen as the most successful visual direction.  Wiseman is a graphic design major from Payson, Illinois.

“Everyone was very, very impressed by all the hard work, said Shelby Hoiness ’16, Adams County assistant public defender.  “The designs were all fantastic.  We’ve shown them to all of our current participants and they really enjoyed the class taking the time to help make something for them and future participants.”

On May 12, Professor Meacher and Peyton Wiseman visited the Adams County Courthouse for the culmination of the project and the chance to see the final posters printed and ready to be displayed.

“I’m so proud of the class’s effort on this project”, said Meacher. “It’s such a nice microcosm of what we want the QU experience to be—working with alumni, engaging the community, preparing our students for their careers with real-world experiences, and embracing the value of service.”

Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University is a small Catholic university emphasizing the sciences, liberal arts and the professions. Quincy University offers undergraduate, graduate and adult education programs integrating practical experience and Franciscan values. Faculty and advisors work with students to design customized success plans to help them graduate on time, find their passion and prepare them for life. QU is a member of NCAA Division II for intercollegiate athletics. For more information, please visit www.quincy.edu or contact the Office of Community Relations at (217) 228-5275 or communityrelations@quincy.edu. Quincy University. Success by Design.