About

I am Morgan McMurtry, a Senior Graphic Designer, Art Director, and Creative Strategist who believes in the power of design to move people, shape stories, and strengthen communities. For more than 15 years, I have helped organizations, colleges, brands, and visionary clients turn ideas into meaningful visual experiences.

I specialize in crafting visual identities, developing marketing campaigns, and bringing concepts to life through thoughtful design and storytelling. Whether I am directing creative work for a college, building a brand from the ground up, or guiding clients through a strategy that elevates their message, my goal remains the same: create work that resonates, inspires, and connects.

As the founder of Morg Lapre Art and Design, I have collaborated with leaders, entrepreneurs, and organizations across the country. My background includes creative direction, design systems, social media strategy, communications, and presentation design. I bring a mix of strategic thinking, hands-on design expertise, and human-centered storytelling to every project.

I believe great work happens where creativity and clarity meet. I am passionate about helping people and organizations tell their story in a way that is visually powerful, authentic, and unforgettable.

Resume

Art Director / Senior Graphic Designer (Freelance)

Morg Lapre Art & Design, LLC
01/2012 to Present

Develop and implement visual identities and enhance corporate presentations to increase audience engagement and brand recognition. Successfully manage multiple projects and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality results.

  • Lead and manage the creative process from concept to completion while aligning with client objectives and brand guidelines

  • Work closely with clients to understand their vision and needs and provide expert design advice and solutions

  • Develop and refine visual identities, including logos, color palettes, typography, and overall brand aesthetics

  • Create digital and print materials such as advertisements, social media graphics, websites, brochures, posters, and packaging

  • Oversee multiple projects with timely delivery while managing client expectations and deadlines

Senior Graphic Designer

Talladega College, Talladega, AL
08/2023 to Present

Supervise and execute visual design to uphold and strengthen the college brand. Manage creative projects, collaborate with departments, and mentor media interns.

  • Launched content marketing campaigns for the FastTrack Program, increasing social media engagement by 15 percent

  • Manage official social media platforms and guide media interns in producing on-brand content

  • Partner with IT to expand audiovisual capabilities for events and live streaming

  • Design layouts for event programs, graduation booklets, flyers, and gala publications

  • Create admissions and departmental collateral to support recruitment and outreach

  • Develop and maintain the Talladega College Visual Identity Guidelines, Style Guide, Policies and Procedures, and Crisis Communication Plan

  • Design logos and wordmarks for galas, events, and campus campaigns

Social Media Manager / Graphic Designer

NIH Community Alliance (CEAL) Against COVID-19 Disparities
03/2021 to 03/2024

Managed online presence and created visuals to promote health equity and community-engaged research.

  • Developed and implemented social media strategies to increase awareness and engagement

  • Designed graphics, infographics, and multimedia content to explain complex information clearly

  • Increased online engagement by 30 percent through strategic content planning

  • Monitored analytics to optimize content performance

  • Ensured consistent messaging and branding across all platforms

  • Executed campaigns that improved follower growth by 20 percent and engagement by 40 percent

  • Managed cohesive brand presence on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn

Strategic Marketing and Communications Specialist

Mississippi Achievement School District, Yazoo City, MS
08/2019 to 07/2022

Created and executed marketing strategies to support educational initiatives and district visibility.

  • Wrote and distributed press releases and communication pieces

  • Developed marketing plans to drive interest among families, students, employees, and partners

  • Built relationships with agencies to support marketing and design needs

  • Created and managed branding materials, including logos and promotional assets

  • Promoted district visibility through social media

  • Designed and managed the district website

  • Generated positive media coverage aligned with district mission and goals

Art Director

Emory University, Atlanta, GA
10/2017 to 06/2018

Contracted Art Director specializing in visual media production, brand management, and client consultation.

  • Produced graphics, illustrations, and files for print and digital media

  • Protected brand integrity and ensured compliance with brand standards

  • Guided department leaders with creative oversight

  • Consulted on presentation of visual information tailored to audiences and media

  • Assessed complex written material to present it visually with clarity and impact

  • Built professional relationships to ensure high-quality work

Art Director / Presentation Specialist (Intern)

Narrative_Creative Ad Agency, New York City, NY
04/2017 to 06/2017

Supported brand strategy and creative development through research and hands-on design.

  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative ideas

  • Conducted research and prepared briefing materials and presentation decks

  • Designed executive-level PowerPoint and Keynote presentations

  • Created on-brand creative assets, including storyboards, mockups, and digital/print content

Education

Master of Science, Global Strategic Communications (Creative Track)
Florida International University, Miami, FL

Art Direction Portfolio Program
Miami Ad School, Miami, FL

Bachelor of Arts, Mass Communication
The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS

Skills and Certifications

Design tools, creative ideation, team leadership, social media strategy, press releases, social media analytics, problem solving, data analytics, procedure manuals, information sharing, graphics, presentation design, internal communications, copywriting, creative strategy, digital marketing, web design, camera operation, project management, new media, e-commerce, branding and identity, Photoshop, acrylic painting, creative writing, logo design, event planning, film production, public speaking, strategic planning, Adobe Creative Suite, art direction, photography.