Long-time member first-time president Jesse Sison has been a part of AIGA Jacksonville for over 15 years. Sison became an AIGA member as a student and then joined the chapter’s membership committee in 2012. He served on and off in various capacities and is excited to take on the role of president now. With an almost brand-new board, Sison hopes to merge the chapter’s beloved traditions while introducing new opportunities to engage with Jacksonville’s AIGA chapter.
When did you decide to join AIGA Jacksonville, and why?
I joined in 2008 after meeting Varick Rosete and Ron Hubbard from AIGA Jax when they visited our school for a campus visit. It was exciting to have the opportunity to be a part of a community that allowed me to learn more about the design industry through the lens of working professionals.
Soon after, I became an official member through our student group, and ever since, I’ve participated in many AIGA Jax events and programs that have allowed me to grow professionally and give back through volunteering and mentorship programs.
The way that everyone was super kind and welcoming to me when I first joined is what got me to stick around. The really cool events that they produced and getting to know and learn from all the talented creatives kept me coming back. It has been such a huge experience that I felt everyone should have. I would welcome new people the same way I was, with excitement and enthusiasm, because I really do believe in the value of what this community can bring to you individually and to us collectively.
Whenever I was fiscally able to shell out membership dues, it was a done deal, and I happily supported this amazing group of people. Once I joined the board, I noticed and appreciated how the directors were dedicated to re-investing funds into programs and events responsibly to bring quality programming to the community.
You’re the new president. How does it feel, and what do you hope to accomplish?
I feel extremely honored to be called to serve. I aim for the board and community to continue the legacy of creatives gathering, helping, and inspiring each other. In conjunction with maintaining a cadence of events, I hope the board and community can enjoy the process and have fun! To help accomplish this, we will work on streamlining workflows in order to avoid pain points. Ultimately we are volunteers and are very grateful for each other’s time and effort. Additionally, on top of board care, we are going to invest time into fundraising for the organization. These efforts will directly support the Jacksonville chapter financially to help increase the value we bring to the community with bigger programs, events, content, and resources.
What can the creative community expect this year?
Keep an eye out for our flagship events to carry out this coming year, which include our portfolio review, annual poster show, and recurring mixer events. The community can also expect us to:
- Produce more robust content through current social channels
- Test and learn methods to engage with our community
- Support our seasoned creatives with resources to elevate their careers
- Expand our support and programs for students and professional creatives from St. Augustine down to Daytona
What would you say to someone looking to join AIGA?
My first piece of advice is to go ahead and attend some events with us. If you are hesitant or feel timid about participating, I can assure you that we all went through this, and it’s completely normal. You will be glad you took a leap of faith. If you are a student, I encourage you to begin attending AIGA events early in your program. The knowledge and insights shared by working professionals are invaluable for your education and portfolio.
If you’re now a professional in the field, your participation can lead to new career opportunities as well as provide a view into current creative trends and professional tools and methods.
Shake off the nerves and be confident that you will be welcomed by an amazing group of people. Membership is not required. If and only when you decide that this is the community that will help you level up by having the opportunity to connect and learn from others, or by giving back through your time and mentorship, will we encourage you to sign up and support AIGA. Ultimately, your participation with our group is what will sustain the legacy, culture, and future of AIGA Jacksonville. Thank you!