GRAPHIC DESIGNER/MARKETING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR CHARLES E. SMITH JEWISH DAY SCHOOL, ROCKVILLE MD
Rachel B. Van Gorden is an artist and designer born and raised in Greenville SC. After earning her BFA in Studio Art (Converse University), she began her creative career in Nashville TN and later in Washington DC. As a mission-driven professional, Rachel has sought to collaborate and serve with institutions that value purpose over profit and have a vision greater than themselves. After spending her time in the fine arts/museum, higher education, and government settings, she found her ultimate fit in the community of Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School (CESJDS). CESJDS is one of the largest independent Jewish day schools in North America educating Pre-K through 12th grade students. CESJDS is a values-driven, pluralistic day school with 2 campuses situated less than 10 miles from the Nation’s Capital in Washington, DC.
TELL US HOW AND WHY YOU BECAME INVOLVED IN SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE COMMUNICATIONS, AND SHARE ANY THOUGHTS ON WHY DESIGN CAN BE AN ESPECIALLY EFFECTIVE TOOL?.
All I have ever wanted is to make the world around me a little more beautiful – be it with words, ideas, faith, or visuals. In my art and music, I have approached this challenge by asking questions that promote conversation. But design is different. At its core, design is primarily pragmatic and seeks to solve a problem while communicating a message effectively. But I believe, at its best, design can do that with depth, substance, and a subtle beauty that touches the person who sees it and causes a spark. Is there a more effective result than being able to stir a human being’s spirit? Design can do that.
My favorite project so far was as the visual architect and sole designer of CESJDS’ 50th Anniversary. This year long celebration encompassed every possible creative/design facet and culminated in a magnificent gala at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington DC. It was an absolute honor to be trusted with and I’m still beaming from the results.
GIVEN THE CONFLUENCE OF EVENTS AND CHALLENGES OUR SOCIETY NOW FACES, DOES THIS MOMENT PRESENT ANY SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES, URGENCIES, OBSTACLES TO DESIGNING FOR GOOD?
The issues of our world are multi-layered, complex, and fragile. We all have our own journey with the chaos around us and within us. I’m grateful to be able to contribute toward progress with people who care. One of CESJDS’ Core Values is the Jewish tenet of Tikkun Olam/Repairing the World. “Repairing the World” encapsulates everything I aspire to as a designer and a person. I can think of no better charge for one who wishes to live and work for the greater good.
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