There’s something special about growing up in a neighborhood where you play outside until it gets dark.That was my childhood in St. Louis Hills.
I rode my bike for hours. I built things. I drew constantly. My mom always found ways to nurture my creativity, enrolling me in art classes at the Saint Louis Art Museum and other local programs. I drew my first portrait before I could walk. I remember making wire faces out of clothes hangers at our kitchen table, completely absorbed in turning everyday objects into something expressive.
When we got our first computer, my world expanded. I took my love of art to the screen, experimenting in Microsoft Paint and discovering that design could live beyond paper. I didn’t know it yet, but those early moments shaped everything I do today.
Finding My Path in Design
I chose the University of Kansas because of its strong visual arts program, but what I found in Lawrence went far beyond academics.
During college, I was part of a program called The Arts, where we worked with on-campus partners to support their graphic design needs. I collaborated with organizations like the Lied Center of Kansas and KU Law, learning early on how design connects people, supports institutions, and shapes experiences.
My first job after graduation was designing bar signage—things like “$2 beers on Tuesdays.” at Classic Eagle Distributing. It may not have been glamorous, but it taught me something incredibly important: every project matters. Every audience matters. Every detail matters.
Soon after, I joined Protection 1 through a referral from Martha Piland. That role was a turning point. It was my first experience working in-house, building brand consistency, and seeing how design could directly support business growth and internal culture. I learned how to collaborate across departments, listen closely, and build trust through the work.
From there, I had the opportunity to join Kansas Athletics, which brought my journey full circle back to Lawrence. That time shaped me in ways I still carry with me today. I worked alongside passionate teams who cared deeply about the student-athletes, the fans, and the larger Jayhawk community. It was an environment where storytelling, brand consistency, and real-time communication mattered every single day.
Being part of that world gave me a front-row seat to how design and marketing can bring people together. I saw how thoughtful, strategic creative work could energize a fan base, support recruiting, and build pride across an entire region. It reinforced something I believe strongly today: design is never just visual—it’s emotional, cultural, and deeply connected to community.
Since then, I’ve worked across industries—security, sports, experiential marketing, retail, nonprofits, and startups. The industries have changed, but one thing has remained constant:
How you treat your clients—internal or external—defines your work more than any design trend ever will.
Why Lawrence Feels Like Home
I fell in love with Lawrence, Kansas the moment I arrived at 18.
Lawrence offered something I hadn’t experienced before: openness. Creativity. A sense of belonging. It’s a town full of art, music, culture, and incredible food. But more than that, it’s a place where people care about each other and about the future of their community.
After college, I became involved with Van Go, Inc. and began supporting other nonprofits like the National Wildlife Federation, Girls on the Run, United Way – Kaw Valley, and local organizations such as The Willow and WINKC. These experiences shaped how I think about design—not just as a visual solution, but as a way to create impact.
In a smaller city, how you show up matters. People know you. Your reputation is built on relationships and consistency. Local businesses are more than storefronts. They are families, dreams, and the heartbeat of the community. Supporting them means supporting the entire city.
Why I Do What I Do
I started JBerra Consulting & Design because I saw how many small businesses were overwhelmed. They know they need a website. They know they need marketing. But they don’t always know where to start—or who to trust.
Good design isn’t about looking pretty. It’s about clarity, strategy, and connection. It’s about helping the right people find you. It’s about making your business sustainable so you can keep doing what you love.
I care deeply about this work because I’ve seen what happens when local businesses succeed. They hire people. They support nonprofits. They create experiences. They make cities better places to live.
Outside of Work
When I’m not designing, you’ll probably find me kayaking, hiking, cycling, camping, traveling, painting, listening to music, or volunteering. I’m also proud to be a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and I believe that inclusive, welcoming spaces make our communities stronger.
Looking Ahead
My goal is simple:
To be someone the Lawrence community trusts.
Not just for design, but as a long-term partner in growth. I want to help businesses and organizations build something meaningful, sustainable, and rooted in this community.
Because when local businesses grow, Lawrence grows.
And that’s the kind of impact that matters.
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