UX/Communication Designer

Matthew (Matt) Babb, MGD, is a UX/Communication Designer at the Natural Learning Initiative (NLI). There he leads the communication team’s design, production, and editing of a variety of graphics and media for print and online publications, course materials, outreach, social media, website, and photography/videography, working in a complex environment with a range of hardware, software, and systems such as those supporting content management in all formats. Across all materials, he implements user experience (UX) design practices that are heavily informed by detailed analytics research and community engagement. He also maintains and establishes all NLI branding and enforces its use through all means of communication ensuring creativity, quality, engagement, and ease of discovery and use.

 Matt has been designing since 2009 and holds bachelor’s degrees in Studio Art and Graphic Design from Campbell University, and a Master of Graphic Design from NC State University, where his research focused on the design of smartpen adaptive interfaces used in Learning Management Systems (LMS) software. He has worked for many companies, including Roast of The Town Coffee (Packaging & Advertisement design), Weeks Dye Works (Publication, Advertisement, Packaging, & UI design), McGahey Architectural Design (Web, Photography, & Publication), & NC State Agroecology (Web, Product, & Publication design). He has also been an active freelancer doing small projects for numerous other businesses and startups.

 With family across North Carolina, Matt had the opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems of both the mountains and the coast. His fond childhood memories include navigating the western woods and building nature trails using fallen trees as bridges. On the coast, he enjoyed fishing and exploring coastal towns with his siblings. Growing up in a rural area, Matt understands the importance of keeping kids of all ages engaged and learning in nature.