FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Santa Fe College Launches “AMPERSAND” at 2026 Graphic Design Student Exhibition
on April 30

Gainesville, FL — Santa Fe College will debut AMPERSAND, the newly named annual Graphic Design Student Exhibition, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 6 p.m. The event, presented by SCAD Media, will be held on the third floor of Building N at the college’s Northwest Campus and is free and open to the public.

The new name, AMPERSAND, reflects the moment of transition our graduating students are experiencing as they move from our degree program into the next chapter of their lives. The ampersand symbol itself represents connection—something designers and typographers have long appreciated. It speaks to the ongoing relationship between our students, alumni, and faculty, and our commitment to staying connected and supportive well beyond graduation.

The exhibition highlights the work of graduating and undergraduate students in Santa Fe College’s Graphic Design Technology A.S. degree program. Known for its hands-on, career-focused approach, the program maintains a high standard while preparing students with the practical skills and creative thinking needed to enter the design industry. On display will be a wide range of student work spanning communication design, advertising, and digital media.

Guests can explore immersive installations, themed photo areas, interactive elements, and live music, creating an engaging and welcoming environment for both the campus and broader Gainesville community. Now a growing tradition within the local arts scene, the exhibition has steadily expanded its reach, drawing more than 150 attendees in each of the past three years.

Professor Shawna Mansfield emphasized both the evolution of the event and the meaning behind its new identity: “Our Graphic Design A.S. degree has been called one of Santa Fe College’s best-kept secrets—but, believe me, we don’t want to be a secret! Our program is high-level, and our reputation is stellar. Our students are doing incredible work, and AMPERSAND is about bringing people together to celebrate that. This is why I call it ‘The Best Creative Party of the Year’! It’s interactive, it’s fun, and it’s full of personality—come see for yourself.”

The exhibition, featuring more than 100 entries, is juried by a panel of industry professionals, including Matías Raby Coddou, Digital Marketing Strategist at Creative Springs; Casey Bissell, Director of Global Product Experience Design at Mastercard; and Emily McMahon-Lynch, Marketing Manager at Scorpio.

In advance of the exhibition, graduating students will participate in a professional portfolio review with representatives from organizations across the country, including Mastercard, PHOS Creative, James Moore & Co., Fanatics, General Electric Credit Union, Anda, Inc., and Caitlyn Dweiri Design.

AMPERSAND 2026 also features the winning promotional poster design by graduating student Mariajose Garcia Badillo, whose concept explores the theme “Precarious.” “My inspiration comes from the act of stitching—holding fragile pieces together with care,” she said. “It’s about embracing vulnerability as part of the repair process and finding beauty in what’s imperfect.”

Community members and alumni consistently describe the exhibition as both inspiring and energizing. “If you haven’t been to an SFC Student Exhibition yet, this is your sign—go,” said Bobby Davidson. “Every portfolio is full of fresh ideas and unique perspectives, and the whole event has a great vibe. It’s a fun, inspiring experience and a perfect night out.”

Jamie Greenspan echoed that enthusiasm: “Every student exhibition I’ve attended at Santa Fe leaves me inspired. The talent, the camaraderie, and the dedication from both students and professors really stand out.”

For alumni like Jesse Painter, AMPERSAND also plays a vital role in strengthening connections within the design community. “It keeps our local design community connected and gives graduates a chance to network and share their work,” Painter said. “It really feels like a big design party—friendly faces, great work, and a lot of support for these emerging designers.”

Santa Fe College extends its appreciation to the sponsors who make the event possible. SCAD Media serves as the platinum sponsor, with gold sponsors Renaissance Printing, Frankel: Agency, Jade, Gainesville Fine Arts Association, and Main Street Daily News, along with additional alumni and community supporters.

Live music will be provided by Rayvon “Purple Kloud” Rollins, returning for his third consecutive year. Catering provided in part by MidiCi.

Family members, students, alumni, industry professionals, and the public are encouraged to attend and experience the debut of AMPERSAND. For more information, contact Professor Shawna Mansfield at shawna.mansfield@sfcollege.edu. Full event details are available at www,sfdmt.com, and updates can also be found on Instagram at @sfdmt.