He currently teaches portfolio and campaigns courses with heavy emphasis on design and art direction and has led student teams to win numerous AAF ADDY awards on the local, regional and national levels. He holds a B.S. from Virginia Tech and an M.S. from the VCU Brandcenter where he graduated at the top of his class. Before becoming an educator, Jay spent 17 years working in the advertising industry as an art director, copywriter, graphic and web designer, and creative director. This connection to the industry enables him to continue working in the form of professional scholarship. His work has been recognized by numerous award programs and organizations. Jay’s professional experience drives his teaching methods as he engages students in real world projects, challenging them to work on regional and national clients such as Anthem, Capital One, Virginia Tourism and VCU.