Danny Tulledge
Senior Designer at ABC News
Education:
BFA in Digital Media; Minor in Art History; Minor in Theater (2015)
Masters in Art and Technology, The University of Oklahoma (2023)
Hometown: Mesa, AZ
What is your current occupation?
After graduating, I worked as the design/visual communications manager at UNC Charlotte for almost two years. Then, I went on to FOX Sports where I helped launch their show “First Things First.” After seven months there, ESPN approached me with a job opportunity and I worked there for almost two years. I then took a Senior Designer position with ABC News. Both ESPN and ABC News are owned by Disney. I love working for the company and plan to stay with them as I continue to move forward in my career.
I’m currently the Lead designer of brand and premium projects at ABC7 in San Francisco. I Conceptualize, design, edit, animate, and produce content for ABC News, Hulu, Localish, ABC Originals, ABC Our America, and other productions. ABC News is under the Disney umbrella so I’m also actively involved with a lot of PRIDE initiatives across the company.
What are some recent projects?
There are so many! At ESPN, I was on an amazing team that worked on the rebrand of the show “First Take.” That was the first time I had a larger creative influence on a project of that scale. I ended up becoming the lead designer of that show, and it really created a sense of ownership. Our hard work paid off because we won a Promax Award.
At ABC News, in 2021 I helped conceptualize the look for the documentary “Our America: Who I’m Meant to Be.” This documentary series follows trans individuals across the United States. I worked on this documentary in 2021 at ABC11 and again at ABC7 and we are still using the look I created today!
Most recently I’m Leading the Design of an ABC Network News editorial initiative titled “Climate Ready”. I conceptualized the look which consists of tight macro shots dependent on story subjects. The word “ready” adapts to the environment implying that the adjustments we make will impact the future!
And of course I’m proud of all the projects I’ve received Emmys for! “Storm Ready 2020: Preparing in a Pandemic”, “Kevin.”, and “More Than my Stutter “.
How did your education at UNC Charlotte prepare you for where you are today?
My education at UNC Charlotte taught me to always push the boundaries. I learned how and why things work, but most importantly, how to apply them and problem-solve. I also learned how to take criticism.
Do you have any particularly special memories of your educational experiences here at UNC Charlotte?
I have so many, but my most meaningful experiences are from the faculty, specifically Heather Freeman and Jeff Murphy. They are both inspiring artists that pass on that artistic drive to their students. I highly recommend taking one of their classes. Also, Jeff Murphy makes the best salsa – ask him about it.
What advice would you give prospective students looking into the Department of Art & Art History?
I would tell them three things:
1. The faculty and staff at UNC Charlotte are your key resources but YOU have to take advantage of those resources.
2. Be a team player and support your peers.
3. I know college is a hectic/stressful time but, CREATE MORE..