As you look around campus, you will see touches of Beth Bodwell in all the UTM official signs.
Bodwell graduated in 2016 from UTM’s Department of Humanities and Fine Arts.
She is currently UTM’s design coordinator. Although UTM was not on her radar at first, she fell in love during her preview day.
“The focus of a small school atmosphere offered at UT Martin allowed me to grow into my potentional,” said Bodwell.
Her time at UTM built up her confidence. Her teachers showed her she had graphic design abilities, even when she did not believe in herself. They taught her that as long as she invested the time and energy, she would be able to produce great work, which lead to her being more involved on campus. The involvement led to experiences that built up her confidence.
UTM emphasizes getting involved with your community and making an impact, which is what Bodwell did when she joined The League of Striving Artists. The organization encourages students and art enthusiasts to develop academically, build leadership skills and help with artist development around the community. Beth found the League of Striving Artists service projects really tied back into what UTM encourages students to do.
“You realize your potential and grow to value others and their potential, all while helping the community,” said Bodwell.
Bodwell would recommend UTM to possible students because UTM emphasizes getting involved with your community to impact others, realizing your potential and grow to value others and their potential. With the faculty’s care, the small class environment of the UTM campus feels like a close-knit community, and the staff are willing to take the time to find value in each student.
During her time at UTM, one of the challenges she faced was work life balance. She learned she had to prioritize what was important. This helped her invest in her future. She advises all students to find something to help them destress and use their professors as a tool to help them grow.
Bodwell is most proud of her work on the billboards around the state showcasing UTM students and the Campus Scene magazine for alumni. Both of these draw the attention of hundreds of folks. She wanted to make them more engaging and impactful.
One of her dreams outside of UTM design is to work with Aaron Drapline. “He has iconic poster work you never get bored with,” said Beth Bodwell.
The biggest issue facing their department now is change in communication. Each generation thinks and communicates differently. They must change their viewpoints to attract new students while retaining current students.
So, the next time you see a Skyhawk logo or a billboard, think of Beth.
