#StoutProud Alum: Andrew Murphy

Career Path & Leadership:

1. What inspired you to pursue your career, and how did your time at UW-Stout shape that path? 

   My career path hasn’t been linear, but it’s always been guided by a fascination with how people connect to experiences. I started with a music degree because I was curious about how sound could move people emotionally. That curiosity evolved into studying video and film at UW-Stevens Point, where I focused on narrative design and the power of storytelling to transport an audience. 

   Eventually, I was drawn to the world of experiential design and how to combine multiple disciplines to create immersive environments that engage people on many levels. That exploration led me to pursue my MFA at UW-Stout, where I gained the tools to think more holistically about design. UW-Stout helped me bridge creativity with strategy, blending design and business to shape more intentional, impactful experiences.

2. Looking back, were there any courses, professors, or campus experiences at UW-Stout that had a lasting impact on your leadership style or professional philosophy?

   Several courses at UW-Stout had a lasting influence on my professional philosophy, particularly Design Seminar and Research Strategies in Design. These classes deepened my understanding of the research process in design and how to translate insights into meaningful outcomes.

   I was also fortunate to have had several influential faculty members during my time on campus. My program director and academic advisor, Julie Peterson, helped me clarify my goals for the program and emphasized the importance of building on existing knowledge while striving to create new knowledge. Working with Dave Beck on several independent studies taught me how to collaborate effectively, especially when developing and testing theories across different software platforms. From Erik Evensen, I gained valuable skills in digital design and visual prototyping, tools I still use daily in my work.

Stout Experience & Influence:

1. Are there any lessons from UW-Stout’s polytechnic approach to education that continue to influence your day-to-day decision-making or long-term strategy?

   UW-Stout’s polytechnic approach taught me how to bridge theory and practice, how to take design concepts and theoretical knowledge and apply them directly to real-world projects. That mindset continues to influence both my day-to-day decisions and long-term strategy. I’ve learned to start with a strong conceptual foundation, then translate those ideas into practical, tangible outcomes that achieve the end goal.

2. What advice would you give to current School of Art and Design students at UW-Stout who aspire to reach leadership roles?

   I would encourage students to pay close attention to the leaders around them. Observe how their actions, communication, and decision-making make you feel, and understand the work that goes into their role. Identify the qualities that inspire you and look for ways to model those behaviors. Just as importantly, learn from the negative experiences, too; understanding what doesn’t work can be just as valuable as knowing what does. Leadership growth often comes from combining those lessons into your own authentic style.

Personal Reflections & Giving Back:

1. Do you maintain any connections to UW-Stout today, whether through mentoring, guest speaking (outside of your upcoming Cabot Executive), or alumni activities?

   Yes, I do. I keep in touch with a number of alumni from my program. It’s always fun to look back on our time at Stout and see the different directions our careers have taken. I also try to connect with other Stout grads whenever I’m at the Game Design Conference in San Francisco. And I still email with a few of my professors, which is a great way to stay connected to what’s happening on campus.

2. What role does mentorship play in your leadership, and did anyone at UW-Stout serve as a mentor or role model for you?

   While I didn’t have a formal mentor during my time at UW-Stout or early in my career, I was fortunate to have several influential leaders in my life. They helped shape the way I think about my work, approach opportunities, and navigate challenges. Their encouragement and example were incredibly motivating, and those experiences are a big reason why I now participate in a formal mentoring program at my current employer. I see mentorship as a powerful way to share knowledge, build confidence, and help others grow. 

3. As someone who has achieved great success in your field, what legacy do you hope to leave, and how does UW-Stout fit into that story? 

   I hope my legacy is inspiring others to see their skills in a broader context—to stay curious, communicate their ideas clearly, and recognize that design and business can work hand in hand. I want to encourage people to remain open to wonder and possibility, because that mindset often leads to the most innovative solutions.

   UW-Stout is part of that legacy because it gave me the foundation to think both creatively and strategically. I hope to continue connecting with UW-Stout students. I believe it is important to encourage them to think philosophically about their lives and to be intentional about how they enter the working world, not just with technical skills, but with a sense of purpose and vision for the kind of impact they want to make.