Alumni Highlights

Alumni Highlights

Cecilia Jane

You may have seen her artwork on boxes and wrappers in ALDI or other stores. Her designs are on towels, blankets, stationery and other apparel. The artwork of Kishwaukee College alumna Cecilia Jane is all over, and she credits her time at Kish for helping her develop as an artist.

“I really enjoyed all of my classes at Kish. I lived in the art room. The community was so warm and inviting. Because of that strong community, Kish gaveme the space and time to grow as a person and a professional,” Cecilia said.Cecilia Jane painting

Starting at Kish in Fall 2018, Cecilia Schmitt — who goes professionally by Cecilia Jane — was looking for a fresh start from her high school experience, which she described as a bit chaotic and overwhelming with many Advanced Placement courses. She had done freelance artwork in high school and knew she wanted an education in art and design. Wanting to meet new people, Cecilia’s initial goal was to go to college in Los Angeles.

“Being 18 years old, I did not really understand how college or loans worked. I ended up pivoting to Kish, which was such a blessing in disguise,” Cecilia said. “Not only did I save money, but I got money from the state to develop as an artist. There was a lot of flexibility. It was really what I needed at the time."

At Kish, Cecilia embraced an opportunity to try new things while developing her art skills. She credits Miles Halpern, Associate Professor of Art & Design, for passing along skills and theory she still uses in her professional work today. She participated in art shows and extracurriculars like the Table Tennis Club, making connections with peers from various backgrounds.

“I just really appreciated the diversity of people having different experiences than me. Finding that community and being active all helped contribute to being a better future Cecilia,” she said. 
In 2020, Cecilia transferred to Columbia College Chicago, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in illustration. While not officially completing a degree or certificate at Kish, Cecilia said she had a seamless transfer to Columbia thanks to Kish.

“I think Kish really sets you up to move on to your next step. I am grateful that the College does what is necessary to make sure everything is transferable,” she said.

Following her time at Columbia College, Cecilia continued with freelance artwork but wanted to work in a space with other artists. In February 2023, ALDI hired her as a surface designer and in-house illustrator.

“I really enjoy my job because I like creating artwork that is accessible to people. People can afford it and have it in their home. It feels special to create art that people can own and cherish,” Cecilia said.

Additionally, Cecilia co-founded Her Artist Collective with her coworker Karla Santana. Based out of Chicago, the collective aims to amplify new artists, especially female-identifying artists, by helping sell work, create prints, and offer workshops and events to build a community. Cecilia said gallery preparation skills she learned helping with the Kishwaukee College Art Gallery have been instrumental in helping run the collective.

For aspiring art students, Cecilia recommended being open to trying new things, not waiting around for the perfect time to start your work, learning how to handle rejection, and having fun living life.  

See more Kish alumni highlights at kish.edu/alumni. Learn more about Kish’s Criminal Justice program at kish.edu/criminaljustice.


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