About

My name is Kim Hartnett and I’m so glad you found me!

From the start, design for me was about storytelling through visuals. As a kid, I would cut apart magazine layouts and rearrange them, fascinated by how type, images, and space could completely change how a message felt. That curiosity grew into a 20-year career as a designer who thrives on finding clarity, order, and impact through design.

At the University of Pennsylvania, I’ve been trusted with high-stakes, high-visibility projects that shape how the institution presents itself to the world. Most notably, I led the redesign of the Penn Admissions website — a primary touchpoint for prospective students and families. My focus was on making essential information clear, accessible, and welcoming. The project balanced functionality with visual storytelling, ensuring that students could easily navigate the application process while also getting a sense of Penn’s community and opportunities. The result was a site that not only reflects Penn’s values but also helps prospective students recognize their own potential, whether at Penn or beyond. I also helped reinvigorate Quaker Days, Penn’s flagship admissions event, transforming it into an experience that resonates with hundreds of admitted students each year.

What defines my approach is how I balance impact and innovation. I believe in upholding brand integrity while leaving space for designers to bring their own voice. When mentoring interns or collaborating with colleagues, I give clear, context-rich feedback that not only improves the work but also deepens understanding of the project and brand story. I’ve been described as a “fixer” — someone who can take complex, multi-layered projects and find solutions that bring coherence, strategy, and polish.

Now, I’m ready to take the next step: applying my design expertise, leadership experience, and strategic thinking as an Art Director. I bring the vision and attention to detail to elevate creative work, the organizational skills to manage projects from start to finish, and the mindset of a team player who thrives in collaborative environments.

Info

South Jersey and Philadelphia

k.red.hartnett@gmail.com

+1 215 850 7202