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Erik Vandergrift

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Erik Vandergrift

January, 2026

MHELS Website and Rebrand

Overview: Creating a new system to bring users together. A system that is scalable across different multimedia screens, and is future-ready for years to come.

My Role: Lead Designer

Overview: Creating a new system to bring users together. A system that is scalable across different multimedia screens, and is future-ready for years to come.

My Role: Lead Designer

Problem

Problems with current system

Issues the stakeholder discussed:

Website and brand feels outdated.
Hard to translate into other forms of media.
Does not want to rely on images.

Issues the stakeholder discussed:

Website and brand feels outdated.
Hard to translate into other forms of media.
Does not want to rely on images.

Strategy

Going back to brand values

I defined the brand foundation discussing with the stakeholder. Emphasizing how community, science, and shared learning is what makes MHELS stand out.

I started with updating the brand by removing the border to create an open a and simplistic look. Then replacing the light blue with purple for an inclusive color scheme.

My inspiration came from geometric shapes and bauhaus design.

I thought we could turn those values into a meaningful icon system.

My inspiration came from geometric shapes and bauhaus design. I thought we could turn those values into a meaningful icon system.

Ideation

Creating the system

I turned her values into icons that can be used for the websites, social media, and prints. A minimal approach to ensure longevity for the brand and website.

We can use these icons to make dynamic graphics across the website, for print, and other forms of media. Ensuring that this design is scalable and resilient.

I turned her values into icons that can be used for the websites, social media, and prints. A minimal approach to ensure longevity for the brand and website.

We can use these icons to make dynamic graphics across the website, for print, and other forms of media. Ensuring that this design is scalable and resilient.