Zenith is an AI-powered companion app concept designed to improve adolescent and young adult relationships with technology. The app utilizes metacognitive skill building, chat support, meditation, and sentiment check-ins to improve digital wellbeing.
Crafted a bento grid design to explore dark mode aesthetics, balancing structure with motion. Leveraging Figma, animations were applied to each card to captivate users and enhance engagement.
Currently leading design initiatives at Abode, crafting data-driven dashboards, toolkits, and digital experiences tailored for early-career professionals. Abode’s B2B2C platform powers some of the world’s largest early career programs, enabling organizations to scale and engage talent.
Redesigned 501(c)(3) #HalfTheStory’s web presence to market the launch of their flagship digital wellbeing platform, Social Media U, and kick off a $10M+ fundraising initiative. This nonprofit empowers the next generation to cultivate healthier relationships with technology.
Designed a deck of cards to showcase Abode's achievements in 2024, featuring over six major feature launches, impressive growth metrics, and impactful testimonials from both customers and users.
Led a full product and brand-focused redesign of Abode’s web presence, converting multiple Fortune 500 site visitors into customers. Highlights of the project include high-fidelity graphic assets, case studies, and a comprehensive suite of early-career resources.
This design embraces visual simplicity, featuring a minimalist landscape crafted in Figma. Set against a peaceful sunset, it showcases a Shinto temple and shrine gate, nestled in the serene rural backdrop of Japan.
Brands and design systems often start with simple graphics and iconography. This set of 12 nature-themed icons highlights clean design principles while reinforcing an eco-friendly aesthetic.
Explored the Rivian R2 in four colors, focusing on the electric SUV’s body and distinctive features. The project highlights how well-crafted visuals can bring out the product's design and character.
Launched Poncho, an AI-powered digital wellbeing companion app for iOS, in collaboration with Dr. Rachel Hanebutt and the 501(c)(3) nonprofit #HalfTheStory, with support from Vanderbilt University. Currently publishing research on findings related to the app's design process and efficacy.
Designed a minimalist vector graphic illustration of the Nashville skyline, featuring a water tower in the foreground and downtown under construction in the background.
Contributed to the launch of Our St. Jude, an iOS and Android app designed to enhance the patient experience for St. Jude families. My role focused on quality assurance, product testing, and data-driven decision-making, ensuring a seamless and supportive experience for users.
A detailed graphic of the Nintendo Switch OLED Model, a handheld gaming console, created in Figma using skeuomorphic design principles to capture its realistic texture and form.
RECOMMENDATION
Dawson is truly a self-starting team player who has a variety of skillsets, making him perfect for any UX/UI, design, or project management role, especially for those looking to work with a visionary beyond his years.
Dr. Rachel Hanebutt
#HalfTheStory Insights & Professor at Georgetown University
COOL DATA POINTS
6
Number of industries I’ve explored working in product and design
$7M+
Revenue generated by design efforts translating into returns
9
Number of successful product launches I’ve collaborated on
WORK HISTORY SNAPSHOT
Product Designer
Abode · 2024 - Present
HCI Researcher
Vanderbilt University · 2023
Mobility & App Development
St. Jude · 2019
Cofounder & UI/UX Designer
Novaly Studios on Roblox · 2017 - 2020
NOTABLE CLIENT WORK
Web Designer
#HalfTheStory 501(c)3 · 2023
Digital Product Consultant
ThirdBridge Group Limited · 2020 - 2023
UI/UX Designer
Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. · 2018
I CAN HELP WITH
Digital Product Design
Craft user interfaces for apps, websites, and digital experiences across platforms
Growth Design Advisor
Increase profit and performance through data-informed design strategies
Design Hand-Offs
Convert your design concepts into digital products with engineering-ready specs
Design Systems
Establish a design system that captures your brand or creative vision
Human-Centered Research
Drive design with insights from thorough, human-centered research
Visual & Motion Design
Create striking mockups, gifs, animations, and graphic assets
If you’ve made it this far, you’re likely as inquisitive as I am. I love exploring ideas and learning from others. If you’d like to chat, send me a LinkedIn message, and let’s connect!