Good design is a rare language—few are fluent in speaking it, but most can understand when it’s spoken well.
The pursuit to becoming a good designer isn’t for the weak. In addition to the challenges of acquiring the technical skills and understanding abstract principles, it’ll kill your ego. It’s competitive and requires a serious time commitment, and you only get better by facing criticism.
University of Wyoming senior Kanilehua “Kani” Miller was feeling the existential strain every seasoned designer goes through—looming self-doubt and feedback that feels more than harsh.“There was this period where I felt beaten down,” Kani says. “There were criticisms that I internalized, and I felt disheartened. That’s when Kayla said, ‘You’re doing great, and I’m proud of you,’ and just hearing that, that was all I needed to keep going.”
When Kani signed up for an introductory graphic design course, she didn’t know what to expect. A communication major from Cheyenne, she originally chose the class as an elective. Then, under the guidance of Assistant Professor Kayla Clark, she discovered a mentor who’s taught her that defeat can never be the loudest voice in the room. Kani has found a real love for design and for herself.
Kayla holds a joint appointment in the Department of Communication and Journalism and the Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources and teaches graphic design, visual communication, and science communication. She also leads UW’s Design Lab, where students collaborate on real-world client projects. With a background that bridges history, technology, and design, Kayla brings an energy that inspires students to push beyond their perceived limits.
“I think Kayla has made my magazine so much better. Her perspectives and encouragement gave me confidence.”
– Kani Miller
For Kani, that push came during her honors capstone project. As an intern with UW’s Summer High School Institute, she was tasked with creating a special 40th anniversary magazine. At first, Kani attempted the work using a drag-and-drop design software but quickly realized the scope required more advanced tools. Kayla’s course gave her the skills and support she needed to transform her vision into an impressive body of work.
“I think Kayla has made my magazine so much better,” Kani says. “Her perspectives and encouragement gave me confidence.”
Kayla noticed Kani’s dedication early on. “Kani rocks,” Kayla says. “When you have a student with that curiosity and desire to work hard, it’s easy to say yes when they want to learn more.”
The mentorship extended beyond technical skills. Kayla guided Kani through the challenges of creative work—how to balance feedback, to develop resilience, and to trust her own expertise. “Graphic design is about putting your heart into something and then asking for critique,” Kayla explains. “That can be tough, but she always shows up.”
Now preparing to graduate in 2026, Kani is considering graduate school in Wyoming. She credits scholarships for making UW accessible and Kayla for making it transformative. “The scholarships helped set me up for success,” she says. “Kayla has supported me through an endeavor. And now I know I can succeed in something I love.”
For Kayla, Kani’s sentiment affirms her calling as an educator. “Seeing students begin to believe in themselves—it’s everything,” she says. “That was the moment Kani realized, ‘I can make anything.’ And that’s power.”
