McKenzie SHort
Graphic Designer • Photographer • Printmaker
I am a graphic designer and photographer based out of Iowa. I attended the University of Iowa, graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 2018. I had previously studied photography at Hawkeye Community College and earned my Associate of Applied Arts Degree.
While attending Hawkeye Community College I had the opportunity to photograph several University of Northern Iowa football and basketball games which were featured on the University’s website. During my studies at the University of Iowa, I participated in two sport and recreation management practicums that allowed me to work alongside the Cedar Rapids Kernels and the Chicago Blackhawks. I was tasked with conducting research, photographing team events, and designing deliverables, website mockups, and other materials to present to the organizations.
In the Spring of 2019, I completed a communications internship with the American Junior Golf Association. I was responsible for shooting, editing, and archiving photos and videos, producing content for social media, and creating media advisories. In 2021 I became a graphic design and visual arts intern with the Normal CornBelters before taking the role of Director of Marketing with the team. This position allowed me to create gameday scoreboard graphics, tickets, and promotional materials such as bobbleheads, t-shirts, and jerseys. I was also given the opportunity to design logos and brand guidelines for two internal teams while managing and maintaining the existing brands.
In January of 2023, I accepted the role of Graphic Designer & Photographer with the Cedar Rapids Kernels and Waterloo Bucks. I was responsible for creating digital and print graphics that were used in the stadium and throughout the community. I was in charge of managing the team website as well as creating graphics for social media, email newsletters, local publications, static and digital billboards, and for third-party website advertisements. I worked with other departments to create deliverables such as marketing guides, sales brochures, schedules, programs, client mockups, and stadium signage. My photography duties included taking photos of the players and coaches, fans, in-game action shots, and community events. I was responsible for expanding brand awareness throughout the community by scheduling appearances and attending events with the mascot and team, serving as a media contact, assisting with managing the team social media pages, and volunteering on behalf of the company. My position also included hiring and managing interns and an in-game entertainment staff while building their knowledge and experience within the sports industry.
McKenzie Short Designs 