Heather Hornbeak

Heather Hornbeak is an active Associate Professor of Web Design in the Art Department at Charleston Southern University (CSU), where she teaches Web Design, UX/UI, and Photography. She joined CSU in 2024 after previously serving as Professor of Interactive Media at Asbury University (2016-2024) and teaching photography at Union University during graduate studies. Her career uniquely bridges academia and industry, with designs featured globally in Apple stores and major trade shows like CES and MacWorld.

Education:

• M.F.A. in Graphic Design & Photography, Azusa Pacific University (2016)
• B.A. in Graphic Design, Union University (2004)
• Animation Design Training, School of Visual Arts (2022)
• Production Design Training, Asbury University (2017)

Her research focuses on user-centered digital design, particularly Web Design and UX/UI methodologies. She investigates practical applications of Data Visualization in education and corporate settings, alongside sustainable design innovations demonstrated through her tiny home project and van conversion. Her work consistently connects technical design skills with real-world user behavior and ethical digital communication practices.

Recent publications (2016-2024) reveal three key trends: (1) UX/UI design for corporate and educational contexts, (2) data visualization as a communication tool, and (3) design's role in lifestyle innovation. She emphasizes the intersection of technology, user behavior, and physical space optimization, with growing attention to social media's impact on community events.

Heather Hornbeak has not received any listed scientific awards or fellowships in the provided text.

While no formal graduate students are documented, she mentors through teaching and industry leadership. She trained employees in her AV & Home Automation business and taught photography at Union University. Grant history isn't mentioned, but her corporate work included major accounts for Target, Walmart, and Best Buy, reflecting applied research funding through industry partnerships.

She co-owns a studio and AV & Home Automation business with her husband, personally training employee teams. At CSU, she collaborates with the Art Department but no dedicated research lab is specified. Her Creo Art Guild membership and AIGA judging role indicate professional team engagement.