JBCLI
The Johnnetta Betsch Cole Legacy Institute (JBCLI) was created to honor the legacy and values of Dr. Johnnetta Cole, and aimed to dismantle systemic inequality. The Institute was particularly dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) in workplaces. While the JBCLI is no longer in existence, the strong brand I created for it in collaboration with Dr. Cole herself was packed with meaning.
sankofa symbol
Dr. Cole has always loved the Sankofa symbol, which originated from Ghana and means "it is not wrong to go back and fetch what you have forgotten". She felt strongly that this symbol should be used to represent the Institute to reinforce its mission, and reiterate the idea that we can learn from the past in order to build the future. The modernized take on the symbol is represented in the logo icon, which is contained in a mosaic rectangle—symbolizing the need for all of us to work together to create a new and more just society. The red arrow at the bottom points upwards, representing hope, forward thinking, and optimism.
Building a simple, branded site
I created a one-page website for JBCLI as a place for people to learn about the organization and donate to their efforts. This was the first branded public-facing piece that was used to announce the Institute’s existence.
A vibrant design system
Anyone who knows Dr. Cole knows that she absolutely loves purple, and she’s always dressed very brightly. She wanted to feel personally connected to her legacy institute, so we developed a color palette that would bring her joy and feel fun and exciting.
“I am blown away by all that has come out of your outrageously creative mind and your deeply special soul. I am over the moon with joy over what I felt as I looked at your work.
Thank you soooooo much my sister for blessing all of us in the JBCLI, and all of the people who will be touched by the JBCLI, with your knowledge, your talent and your creativity. Onward!”
—Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole