Melissa Johnston

Melissa Johnston is a dedicated designer whose background in marketing and graphic design brings a unique understanding of both the creative and business sides of projects.

For nearly two decades, Melissa has been client-focused from both the perspective of a graphic designer and a business and marketing professional. Prior to joining The Hatcher Group, she worked at ASCD, a nonprofit membership association supporting educators worldwide, as a senior graphic designer creating books, websites, marketing materials, publications, advertisements, conference and signage materials, logos and motion graphics. Through freelance opportunities and previous experience at design agencies and in-house creative teams, Melissa also brings valuable expertise in print and digital communications from working with clients including AARP International, American Bankers Association, Children’s National Medical Center, Ledger Bennett, The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), National Geographic Society, National Institute on Aging, and UNESCO.

Melissa earned her B.B.A. degree in marketing from the University of Iowa in 2002. After realizing her passion for visual communications, she then went on to earn her B.F.A. in graphic design from George Mason University in 2012 to pursue a career that utilized her creative talents. In her spare time, Melissa enjoys having dance parties with her daughter, traveling, exploring nature, and making memories with family and friends.

PASSIONS THAT BENEFIT MY CLIENTS

• Loves to listen: Asking a lot of questions and being a good listener is what I do best. It allows me to really understand the goals of a project and to best serve my clients by finding smart, successful design solutions with a unique perspective.
• Always up for a challenge: I take pride in working hard, and I always strive to be better. Big or small, I love a good challenge. I believe designing and problem-solving go hand-in-hand.
• Obsessed with the details but guided by the big picture: As a designer, attention to detail comes naturally, but I never let go of the end goal. I aim for design that not only looks beautiful but also—and most importantly—inspires people to act.
• Words to live by: “It takes a village” is applicable to so many facets of life. I believe working collaboratively, and with the community in mind, always allows for a better outcome and a more meaningful journey.