Tonya Humiston
Creative Director & Design Thinker
Welcome To My Portfolio
I learn complex systems quickly — then make them legible to everyone else.
I'm a creative director, narrative strategist, and design thinker based on the Olympic Peninsula. My work sits at the intersection of visual storytelling, brand systems, and organizational complexity — helping scientists, federal agencies, outdoor brands, and mission-driven organizations communicate what they do with clarity and purpose.
U.S. Army trained. SCAD educated. Outdoor industry forged.
My Projects
Data Visualization Work Sample
At U.S. Government Accountability Office, I specialized in translating complex policy and technical information into clear visual narratives, including infographics and data visualizations designed to make research findings more accessible to broad audiences.
Research + Strategy Work Sample
While completing my master’s in Design Management, I conducted independent research examining standout products from leading outdoor brands.
Each study combined competitive analysis, qualitative and quantitative research, customer feedback, and applied design research to uncover what made each product successful. I translated the findings into visually engaging reports and infographics, publishing them on LinkedIn and my portfolio, which drew attention from several emerging brands that sent products for testing and evaluation.
I collaborated with local athletes and experienced industry colleagues and synthesized diverse insights into actionable recommendations. This work strengthened my ability to identify product opportunities and translate complex information into strategic visual narratives.
Graphic Design & Marketing Work Sample
During graduate school, I expanded into graphic design and marketing communications, later joining Norwich University as Associate Director of Marketing & Creative. In that role, I led cross-campus campaigns and creative initiatives that connected faculty, staff, and leadership, built brand-consistent systems, and improved engagement across digital and print channels.
Apparel + Gear Design Work Sample
A decade designing performance apparel and gear for REI, Columbia, Marmot, and Toad&Co — from moodboard to factory floor, across cultures, continents, and construction challenges.
Illustration
Sample Work
Illustration is how I think before I design. From hand-rendered fashion figures to complex data graphics for congressional reports, I use visual language to make difficult things understandable — whether the subject is marine science, defense acquisition, or the life cycle of a coho salmon.
Creative Services
Data Storytelling & Visualization
Brand & Marketing Strategy
Illustration & Visual Communication
Design Research & Opportunity Analysis
Apparel & Product Design
Creative Team Leadership & Collaboration
