Paul Davis ’06
Executive Creative Director, Ologie

What did you study at Otterbein?

Received a Bachelor of Arts, with concentrations in Graphic Design, Drawing, Computer Art and Minors in: Music, Art History.

Where are you now?

Like any creative person, I just want to be surrounded by an environment that offers the opportunity for iteration, experimentation and disruptive ideas, and I am fortunate enough to work in such a space at Ologie. We are a woman-owned marketing and branding agency based in Columbus, Ohio, but work with clients and peers all across the country. Our focus is on helping our partners discover their authentic story, and sharing it with the world. From colleges and universities to other purpose-driven organizations, we build brands that stand out and experiences that inspire action.

 What is a typical day on the job or in the studio like?

As an Executive Creative Director, I oversee a wide range of visual and verbal work in a studio of talented writers and designers. I still push pixels when I can, but what fuels me today is making sure our team is set up to be their best creative selves. It is so rewarding seeing their ideas flourish and make change. I have been humbled to direct and create work for some amazing partners, such as the College of William & Mary, Hampshire College, Harvard Kennedy School, University of Baltimore, University of Florida, Purdue University, Stanford University and Little League International.

How did Otterbein, and/or the Art and Art History Department, help prepare you for your job? How did your education help you succeed?

I’m going to give a common answer that a lot of prospective students will read, and it’s that the faculty were instrumental in shaping my mindset and approach to being a professional creative. But the instruction I received was more than how to use software — anyone (including YouTube) can teach you InDesign — but it’s how to be a creative PERSON.

Yes, their instruction was balanced on craft and being able to converse about the intent and reasoning behind the work, but a great deal of time and energy went into what it meant to have a creative voice. Ultimately, it’s the conversations outside of the critiques that stick with you. The faculty treated you as a peer, intently cared about your personal growth, and helped you learn to express that growth through your craft.

Lastly, Otterbein creates spaces for community, and it’s where my social network–in real life not the metaverse–was fostered and shaped. My perspectives were opened and I was inspired to use my work to help feed a healthier society. True friendships were formed at Otterbein and still enrich my life to this day.

So when asked how my education helped me succeed, I hope you see that “success” is more than a job and a title, it’s about being a good human and HOW you will shape your part of the world.