Hi there, I'm Emily! I use participatory design to grow people-centered institutions.

I am a designer, turned researcher, turned strategist who uses methods like design research, stakeholder co-creation, and rapid testing to design solutions that bridge gaps between people and the institutions that serve them. My work has supported criminal justice reform, international open government initiatives, and enhanced City-delivered health and human services.

My approach focuses on inclusive service design. Working in collaboration with organizations, I democratize the tools and methods of the design process to empower stakeholders—from high-level decision makers to front-line service providers—in designing services that are responsive to the complex needs and contextual constraints of their users.

I currently spend my days at the Civic Service Design Studio—within the NYC Mayor's Office for Economic Opportunity. I get to go to work every day and help make public services more accessible and effective for all New Yorker's—some days there’s even treats.

A Midwestern transplant, I graduated from Illinois State University with dual BAs in Graphic Design and Arts Technology and a minor in Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility. I hold an MFA in Design for Social Innovation from the School of Visual Arts.