Emily Kormos

Artist Biography

Emily Kormos is a graphic designer from Lexington, Massachusetts. She cannot quite pinpoint the beginning of her design journey, as she has been a heavily visual thinker for as long as she can remember. Whether it be through developing illustrative brands, storytelling with motion design, or crafting delightful user experiences, her goal of encouraging meaningful communications remains consistent across all her work.

Emily’s professional experience includes internships at Craft Food Halls (2021), Breaktime Media (2022), and Proximity Lab (2023). Additionally, she has completed freelance work for healthcare companies and non-profit organizations.

She is proudly involved in several organizations across campus, most notably as the Vice President of the Graphic Design Club, a writing and UX tutor at the Tutoring and Writing Center, and a member of the Kappa Pi Art Honor Society. She also completed two short-term study abroad programs; a study tour in Copenhagen, Denmark, and an international exhibition in Cork, Ireland. 

Emily is planning to move to New Hampshire following graduation and is looking forward to her future as a graphic designer!

Portfolio: www.emilykormos.com
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/emilykormos

Thesis Abstract

Grand Paw is a foster-based rescue for senior dogs. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), senior dogs have a 25% adoption rate, which is significantly less than the 60% adoption rate for younger dogs. Many fail to recognize that senior dogs are still full of life, light, and love! Grand Paw hopes to redefine senior dog adoption by establishing a playful, inspirational, and uplifting brand. 

Senior dogs are most frequently overlooked in the traditional brick-and-mortar shelter format, which can be an incredibly stressful environment for older pups. Studies reveal that foster-based systems significantly decrease dogs’ stress levels and allow their true personalities to shine, which is a crucial part of matching them with their ideal home. Although many organizations shifted to foster-based models during the pandemic, it appears that most specialized rescues remain as traditional shelters. Therefore, Grand Paw’s specialized foster-based system fills this gap among animal rescue organizations.  Grand Paw aims to stray (no pun intended) away from the typical animal rescue brand and promote a contemporary “shelterless” model that allows senior dogs to find forever homes on their own terms.