Giving a school’s summer program the full brand-treatment it deserved.

Client:
Shady Side Academy
Freelance design services:
Graphic Design, Social Media Ads & Graphics
Tools used:
Illustrator, InDesign, XD, Photoshop
The Challenge

Can you help our summer program look like us, but also look like summer?

Shady Side Academy is a prestigious K-12 private school in Pittsburgh. But when school’s out for summer, things look a little campier: Shady Side Summer Programs step into full swing. The camps are open to students and non-students alike, so the audience is wider, and the subject matter is splashier.

The need? Give Shady Side Summer Programs a unique look that would capture attention, fill attendance, and still be part of Shady Side Academy. I had already incorporated SSA’s new brand into its master plan website and annual magazine, but the summer program hadn’t gotten any of this fresh brand love. With spring flowers blooming, it was time — so we grabbed our sunscreen and dove in.

Success!
Success!

Still on-brand,
and big on fun.

Within schools there are often many different departments, programs, and initiatives. Some need to align more precisely, and some need to stand out. This was a case where standing out was key; but cohesiveness is always paramount. Fortunately, SSA’s brand toolkit allows for a lot of creativity!

We highlighted bright, neon shades in the color palette and chose images that elicited the excitement of the program. From the website, signage, and social media graphics to the t-shirts and swag, Shady Side Summer Programs now has a clear point of view, showcasing this vibrant and engaging summer experience.

Giving a school’s summer program the full brand-treatment it deserved.

Partnership,
all year ’round.

Ultimately everything Shade Side Academy does is part of the school’s overall perception — every season, all year ’round. That’s what we achieved here: something distinctive that is still true-to-brand.

If you need help stretching your brand assets — whether that means more formal or more fancy-free — I can help. I love working within brand guidelines to find original ways to design connective communications that stay true to your identity. I am a creative, but I'm a rule follower first!

Shady Side Academy

We knew we needed a refresh of the Shady Side Summer Programs branding, but we weren’t sure what that could or should look like. Tara took the time to understand what makes the program special and turned that into a sub-brand that feels unique but still speaks to Shady Side’s overall identity. Her thoughtfulness created visual elements that translate across all platforms – the website is beautiful and impactful; the signage around campus is colorful and useful; and it’s so exciting to see the campers and counselors decked out in their new shirts!

Jane Heeter

Jane Heeter

Director of Web and Digital Marketing
Shade Side Acdemy

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