Alumni Magazine

2008

The task for this redesign of this quarterly publication for the University of Dayton was not only to update the visual elements of the publication, but to also rethink its entire purpose and content. In an effort to give the magazine a wider appeal, and hopefully, a wider audience, the goal was to make the magazine less of a brochure for the university and more of a piece that proves that UD is an important player in the larger cultural conversation. Great story telling and subject matter that would be captivating to someone outside of the UD community were made requirements for all elements in magazine. The publication also needed to serve the university’s Catholic, Marianist traditions of life-long learning and service, as well a commitment to continually asking questions and searching for answers. Several new sections were added to the publication: “The Big Question” asks readers to weigh in on moral quandaries as well as provides the opinion of an on-campus Mariansit; “Expert Instruction” showcases the expertise of staff, faculty and students in a how-to like format; “Conversation Pieces” illuminates what local, national and global topics are being discussed on campus; and “Hidden Treasures” tells the story of key pieces from the university’s vast, varied and surprising archive.

The new design of the magazine used the new university-wide branding done by 160over90 as a starting point to create a modern and engaging look. A simple grid and a limited number of typefaces with very different personalities create a clear hierarchy. The banner shape, originating out of banners found in churches, is used as a navigational device, and it’s distinctive bottom angle creates line-work patterns that break up areas on the page. Limited pop colors are used on each page to easily delineate sections, and a gray background unites the section specific to alumni. The use of large illustration and photography provide breathing space, and portrait illustrations bring a unique style to a university publication. The overall look is intellectual, yet approachable.