About
Summary
I am a Visual Designer, UX Designer, and eLearning Developer
I have a decade of experience in academia and tech, supporting learners and users worldwide. My passion for enhancing the user experience through empathetic, efficient, and user-centered design stems from my family’s struggles as Ukrainian refugees adapting to life in the U.S. Their challenges inspired me to create accessible user experiences and impactful content for all.
Summary
I am a Visual Designer, UX Designer, and eLearning Developer
I have a decade of experience in academia and tech, supporting learners and users worldwide. My passion for enhancing the user experience through empathetic, efficient, and user-centered design stems from my family’s struggles as Ukrainian refugees adapting to life in the U.S. Their challenges inspired me to create accessible user experiences and impactful content for all.
Summary
I am a Visual Designer, UX Designer, and eLearning Developer
I have a decade of experience in academia and tech, supporting learners and users worldwide. My passion for enhancing the user experience through empathetic, efficient, and user-centered design stems from my family’s struggles as Ukrainian refugees adapting to life in the U.S. Their challenges inspired me to create accessible user experiences and impactful content for all.
Summary
I am a Visual Designer, UX Designer, and eLearning Developer
I have a decade of experience in academia and tech, supporting learners and users worldwide. My passion for enhancing the user experience through empathetic, efficient, and user-centered design stems from my family’s struggles as Ukrainian refugees adapting to life in the U.S. Their challenges inspired me to create accessible user experiences and impactful content for all.
My Problem-Solving Approach
I prioritize the needs and perspectives of users in my designs
Utilizing a combination of the SAM model, UX design thinking process, and product design principles, my approach is iterative and collaborative. I work with global stakeholders to identify pain points, conduct user research, gather feedback, and develop innovative solutions to improve the user experience.
My Problem-Solving Approach
I prioritize the needs and perspectives of users in my designs
Utilizing a combination of the SAM model, UX design thinking process, and product design principles, my approach is iterative and collaborative. I work with global stakeholders to identify pain points, conduct user research, gather feedback, and develop innovative solutions to improve the user experience.
My Problem-Solving Approach
I prioritize the needs and perspectives of users in my designs
Utilizing a combination of the SAM model, UX design thinking process, and product design principles, my approach is iterative and collaborative. I work with global stakeholders to identify pain points, conduct user research, gather feedback, and develop innovative solutions to improve the user experience.
My Problem-Solving Approach
I prioritize the needs and perspectives of users in my designs
Utilizing a combination of the SAM model, UX design thinking process, and product design principles, my approach is iterative and collaborative. I work with global stakeholders to identify pain points, conduct user research, gather feedback, and develop innovative solutions to improve the user experience.
How I Work with People
Effective communication, collaboration, and efficiency are the core principles guiding my work ethic
I am passionate about building authentic relationships with peers, SMEs, and stakeholders to ensure our solutions meet the needs of diverse audiences.
How I Work with People
Effective communication, collaboration, and efficiency are the core principles guiding my work ethic
I am passionate about building authentic relationships with peers, SMEs, and stakeholders to ensure our solutions meet the needs of diverse audiences.
How I Work with People
Effective communication, collaboration, and efficiency are the core principles guiding my work ethic
I am passionate about building authentic relationships with peers, SMEs, and stakeholders to ensure our solutions meet the needs of diverse audiences.
How I Work with People
Effective communication, collaboration, and efficiency are the core principles guiding my work ethic
I am passionate about building authentic relationships with peers, SMEs, and stakeholders to ensure our solutions meet the needs of diverse audiences.
Bottom Line
I am dedicated to fostering growth and achieving tangible results
My passion is to streamline the experience for both the user and the business. I take a holistic approach in all of my projects and enjoy applying a variety of tech tools and generative AI to improve the process. I am confident in my ability to design and deliver modern UX experiences that empower individuals and organizations to thrive.
Bottom Line
I am dedicated to fostering growth and achieving tangible results
My passion is to streamline the experience for both the user and the business. I take a holistic approach in all of my projects and enjoy applying a variety of tech tools and generative AI to improve the process. I am confident in my ability to design and deliver modern UX experiences that empower individuals and organizations to thrive.
Bottom Line
I am dedicated to fostering growth and achieving tangible results
My passion is to streamline the experience for both the user and the business. I take a holistic approach in all of my projects and enjoy applying a variety of tech tools and generative AI to improve the process. I am confident in my ability to design and deliver modern UX experiences that empower individuals and organizations to thrive.
Bottom Line
I am dedicated to fostering growth and achieving tangible results
My passion is to streamline the experience for both the user and the business. I take a holistic approach in all of my projects and enjoy applying a variety of tech tools and generative AI to improve the process. I am confident in my ability to design and deliver modern UX experiences that empower individuals and organizations to thrive.
Also Me
I love immersing myself in new experiences
Whether it’s traveling the world (I’ve visited 25+ countries), experimenting with new recipes, or making connections, I thrive on adventure and the unfamiliar. I find joy in playing with my toddler and dogs, exploring the West Coast, watching design shows, using my Cricut to create craft projects, and volunteering in my community.
Also Me
I love immersing myself in new experiences
Whether it’s traveling the world (I’ve visited 25+ countries), experimenting with new recipes, or making connections, I thrive on adventure and the unfamiliar. I find joy in playing with my toddler and dogs, exploring the West Coast, watching design shows, using my Cricut to create craft projects, and volunteering in my community.
Also Me
I love immersing myself in new experiences
Whether it’s traveling the world (I’ve visited 25+ countries), experimenting with new recipes, or making connections, I thrive on adventure and the unfamiliar. I find joy in playing with my toddler and dogs, exploring the West Coast, watching design shows, using my Cricut to create craft projects, and volunteering in my community.
Also Me
I love immersing myself in new experiences
Whether it’s traveling the world (I’ve visited 25+ countries), experimenting with new recipes, or making connections, I thrive on adventure and the unfamiliar. I find joy in playing with my toddler and dogs, exploring the West Coast, watching design shows, using my Cricut to create craft projects, and volunteering in my community.
Work Experience
May 2024 — Present
Comcast, ULearn Creative Services
Visual and UX Designer
Spearheaded the design and development of the ULearn Brand Hub, a centralized platform that serves 350+ users, enhancing brand consistency and streamlining asset management. By leveraging data-driven insights, conducting user interviews, and iterating based on feedback, I increased user engagement by 30% on ULearn’s PowerApps and SharePoint sites, improving resource accessibility. Played a key role in refining ULearn’s brand guidelines, designing scalable look-and-feel frameworks for 10+ sub-brands to ensure a cohesive and adaptable brand identity. Overseeing the creation of 1,000+ design assets, including logos, design systems, and imagery, I reinforced ULearn’s visual identity and facilitated efficient content delivery across teams. Managed contractors and cross-functional teams, integrated emerging technologies, and provided training on design and tech tools, optimizing workflows and enhancing project delivery efficiency.
May 2024 — Present
Comcast, ULearn Creative Services
Visual and UX Designer
Spearheaded the design and development of the ULearn Brand Hub, a centralized platform that serves 350+ users, enhancing brand consistency and streamlining asset management. By leveraging data-driven insights, conducting user interviews, and iterating based on feedback, I increased user engagement by 30% on ULearn’s PowerApps and SharePoint sites, improving resource accessibility. Played a key role in refining ULearn’s brand guidelines, designing scalable look-and-feel frameworks for 10+ sub-brands to ensure a cohesive and adaptable brand identity. Overseeing the creation of 1,000+ design assets, including logos, design systems, and imagery, I reinforced ULearn’s visual identity and facilitated efficient content delivery across teams. Managed contractors and cross-functional teams, integrated emerging technologies, and provided training on design and tech tools, optimizing workflows and enhancing project delivery efficiency.
May 2024 — Present
Comcast, ULearn Creative Services
Visual and UX Designer
Spearheaded the design and development of the ULearn Brand Hub, a centralized platform that serves 350+ users, enhancing brand consistency and streamlining asset management. By leveraging data-driven insights, conducting user interviews, and iterating based on feedback, I increased user engagement by 30% on ULearn’s PowerApps and SharePoint sites, improving resource accessibility. Played a key role in refining ULearn’s brand guidelines, designing scalable look-and-feel frameworks for 10+ sub-brands to ensure a cohesive and adaptable brand identity. Overseeing the creation of 1,000+ design assets, including logos, design systems, and imagery, I reinforced ULearn’s visual identity and facilitated efficient content delivery across teams. Managed contractors and cross-functional teams, integrated emerging technologies, and provided training on design and tech tools, optimizing workflows and enhancing project delivery efficiency.
May 2024 — Present
Comcast, ULearn Creative Services
Visual and UX Designer
Spearheaded the design and development of the ULearn Brand Hub, a centralized platform that serves 350+ users, enhancing brand consistency and streamlining asset management. By leveraging data-driven insights, conducting user interviews, and iterating based on feedback, I increased user engagement by 30% on ULearn’s PowerApps and SharePoint sites, improving resource accessibility. Played a key role in refining ULearn’s brand guidelines, designing scalable look-and-feel frameworks for 10+ sub-brands to ensure a cohesive and adaptable brand identity. Overseeing the creation of 1,000+ design assets, including logos, design systems, and imagery, I reinforced ULearn’s visual identity and facilitated efficient content delivery across teams. Managed contractors and cross-functional teams, integrated emerging technologies, and provided training on design and tech tools, optimizing workflows and enhancing project delivery efficiency.
March 2023 — July 2024
Comcast, ULearn Technology Learning Xperience
Instructional Designer
Led the design and development of 80+ Technology Learning Workshops at Comcast, significantly streamlining project timelines by over 50% through the application of Agile methodologies, GenAI, and standardized templates. Created learner-centered training materials, including eLearning modules, instructor-led training guides, and videos, which enhanced the technology skills of Comcast’s global workforce and achieved a 95% learner satisfaction rating. Redesigned the Technology Learning team site, improving user experience and developing a catalog app for 5,000+ tech learning courses. Created and designed branding materials for KnowledgeFest, attracting over 8,000 attendees.
March 2023 — July 2024
Comcast, ULearn Technology Learning Xperience
Instructional Designer
Led the design and development of 80+ Technology Learning Workshops at Comcast, significantly streamlining project timelines by over 50% through the application of Agile methodologies, GenAI, and standardized templates. Created learner-centered training materials, including eLearning modules, instructor-led training guides, and videos, which enhanced the technology skills of Comcast’s global workforce and achieved a 95% learner satisfaction rating. Redesigned the Technology Learning team site, improving user experience and developing a catalog app for 5,000+ tech learning courses. Created and designed branding materials for KnowledgeFest, attracting over 8,000 attendees.
March 2023 — July 2024
Comcast, ULearn Technology Learning Xperience
Instructional Designer
Led the design and development of 80+ Technology Learning Workshops at Comcast, significantly streamlining project timelines by over 50% through the application of Agile methodologies, GenAI, and standardized templates. Created learner-centered training materials, including eLearning modules, instructor-led training guides, and videos, which enhanced the technology skills of Comcast’s global workforce and achieved a 95% learner satisfaction rating. Redesigned the Technology Learning team site, improving user experience and developing a catalog app for 5,000+ tech learning courses. Created and designed branding materials for KnowledgeFest, attracting over 8,000 attendees.
March 2023 — July 2024
Comcast, ULearn Technology Learning Xperience
Instructional Designer
Led the design and development of 80+ Technology Learning Workshops at Comcast, significantly streamlining project timelines by over 50% through the application of Agile methodologies, GenAI, and standardized templates. Created learner-centered training materials, including eLearning modules, instructor-led training guides, and videos, which enhanced the technology skills of Comcast’s global workforce and achieved a 95% learner satisfaction rating. Redesigned the Technology Learning team site, improving user experience and developing a catalog app for 5,000+ tech learning courses. Created and designed branding materials for KnowledgeFest, attracting over 8,000 attendees.
January 2023 — March 2023
Microsoft, MLSA and MVP Programs
Global Operations Manager
Streamlined instructional materials, saving 10 hours per week through redesign and automation. Improved program compliance, reducing non-compliant accounts by 95% within 2 months by developing and implementing structured communication flows. Managed 6,000+ subscriptions for LinkedIn Premium and Office 365 across Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador and Microsoft Most Valuable Professional programs.
January 2023 — March 2023
Microsoft, MLSA and MVP Programs
Global Operations Manager
Streamlined instructional materials, saving 10 hours per week through redesign and automation. Improved program compliance, reducing non-compliant accounts by 95% within 2 months by developing and implementing structured communication flows. Managed 6,000+ subscriptions for LinkedIn Premium and Office 365 across Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador and Microsoft Most Valuable Professional programs.
January 2023 — March 2023
Microsoft, MLSA and MVP Programs
Global Operations Manager
Streamlined instructional materials, saving 10 hours per week through redesign and automation. Improved program compliance, reducing non-compliant accounts by 95% within 2 months by developing and implementing structured communication flows. Managed 6,000+ subscriptions for LinkedIn Premium and Office 365 across Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador and Microsoft Most Valuable Professional programs.
January 2023 — March 2023
Microsoft, MLSA and MVP Programs
Global Operations Manager
Streamlined instructional materials, saving 10 hours per week through redesign and automation. Improved program compliance, reducing non-compliant accounts by 95% within 2 months by developing and implementing structured communication flows. Managed 6,000+ subscriptions for LinkedIn Premium and Office 365 across Microsoft Learn Student Ambassador and Microsoft Most Valuable Professional programs.
September 2022 — December 2022
Amazon
Program Manager II
Designed and launched an onboarding strategy for Amazon Student Program's Loop Interview Automation (LIA), improving efficiency by 20% for 73,000+ candidates. Optimized Amazon wiki pages, reducing onboarding time by 30% and increasing stakeholder satisfaction. Managed LIA interview progress, swiftly resolving issues and maintaining a 98% issue resolution success rate.
September 2022 — December 2022
Amazon
Program Manager II
Designed and launched an onboarding strategy for Amazon Student Program's Loop Interview Automation (LIA), improving efficiency by 20% for 73,000+ candidates. Optimized Amazon wiki pages, reducing onboarding time by 30% and increasing stakeholder satisfaction. Managed LIA interview progress, swiftly resolving issues and maintaining a 98% issue resolution success rate.
September 2022 — December 2022
Amazon
Program Manager II
Designed and launched an onboarding strategy for Amazon Student Program's Loop Interview Automation (LIA), improving efficiency by 20% for 73,000+ candidates. Optimized Amazon wiki pages, reducing onboarding time by 30% and increasing stakeholder satisfaction. Managed LIA interview progress, swiftly resolving issues and maintaining a 98% issue resolution success rate.
September 2022 — December 2022
Amazon
Program Manager II
Designed and launched an onboarding strategy for Amazon Student Program's Loop Interview Automation (LIA), improving efficiency by 20% for 73,000+ candidates. Optimized Amazon wiki pages, reducing onboarding time by 30% and increasing stakeholder satisfaction. Managed LIA interview progress, swiftly resolving issues and maintaining a 98% issue resolution success rate.
September 2021 — September 2022
Microsoft, MLSA Program
Community Program Manager
Led a global community of 5,000+ STEM students, driving a 25% increase in engagement through user-centered strategies and community design. By managing and optimizing engagement for 800+ students in India, I boosted regional interaction by 30% through feedback loops and content relevance improvements. I redesigned program materials and learning events, increasing user retention by 15% through accessible, UX-driven content and experiences. Launched a Peer Mentorship Program for 1,800+ students, significantly enhancing satisfaction and attracting 3,000+ event attendees within 3 months. I also orchestrated quarterly student conferences, providing interactive learning opportunities for 18 students and engaging 600+ attendees, with the events being featured on the Microsoft Reactor platform.
September 2021 — September 2022
Microsoft, MLSA Program
Community Program Manager
Led a global community of 5,000+ STEM students, driving a 25% increase in engagement through user-centered strategies and community design. By managing and optimizing engagement for 800+ students in India, I boosted regional interaction by 30% through feedback loops and content relevance improvements. I redesigned program materials and learning events, increasing user retention by 15% through accessible, UX-driven content and experiences. Launched a Peer Mentorship Program for 1,800+ students, significantly enhancing satisfaction and attracting 3,000+ event attendees within 3 months. I also orchestrated quarterly student conferences, providing interactive learning opportunities for 18 students and engaging 600+ attendees, with the events being featured on the Microsoft Reactor platform.
September 2021 — September 2022
Microsoft, MLSA Program
Community Program Manager
Led a global community of 5,000+ STEM students, driving a 25% increase in engagement through user-centered strategies and community design. By managing and optimizing engagement for 800+ students in India, I boosted regional interaction by 30% through feedback loops and content relevance improvements. I redesigned program materials and learning events, increasing user retention by 15% through accessible, UX-driven content and experiences. Launched a Peer Mentorship Program for 1,800+ students, significantly enhancing satisfaction and attracting 3,000+ event attendees within 3 months. I also orchestrated quarterly student conferences, providing interactive learning opportunities for 18 students and engaging 600+ attendees, with the events being featured on the Microsoft Reactor platform.
September 2021 — September 2022
Microsoft, MLSA Program
Community Program Manager
Led a global community of 5,000+ STEM students, driving a 25% increase in engagement through user-centered strategies and community design. By managing and optimizing engagement for 800+ students in India, I boosted regional interaction by 30% through feedback loops and content relevance improvements. I redesigned program materials and learning events, increasing user retention by 15% through accessible, UX-driven content and experiences. Launched a Peer Mentorship Program for 1,800+ students, significantly enhancing satisfaction and attracting 3,000+ event attendees within 3 months. I also orchestrated quarterly student conferences, providing interactive learning opportunities for 18 students and engaging 600+ attendees, with the events being featured on the Microsoft Reactor platform.
Additional work experience available on LinkedIn
Testimonials
"I’ve had the pleasure of mentoring Marilyn for several years and have witnessed her incredible growth into a strong leader and manager. Our journey began when Marilyn reached out to me at Microsoft, eager to learn more about leadership in the learning and development space. From the start, it was clear she was passionate about growth and making an impact in her role. Over time, I’ve seen her take on new challenges and excel in leadership opportunities, from driving impactful initiatives as a program manager at Microsoft to her current role as a designer at Comcast. Marilyn’s commitment to excellence and innovation shines through in everything she does. It has been truly rewarding to witness her development, and I’m confident she’ll continue to make a lasting impact in any role she takes on."
Stefani Okamoto, Director - Manager Excellence at ServiceNow
@stefani
"Marilyn is a brilliant and gifted Program Manager who understands how to get the best out of people & programs. I have seen her implement innovative, new initiatives with incredible success, leaving a solid mark on the Student Ambassador community in India."
Vivek Sridhar, Senior Cloud Advocate at Microsoft
@vivek
"Marilyn might be the most efficient project manager I’ve worked with! She is organized, energetic, and proactive – not content with the status quo, and never tired of making improvements. Marilyn also brings a thoughtful, considered approach to her work, keeping sight of student needs and organizational goals. Would recommend her for your next big educational initiative!"
Jill Aronson Pfaendtner, Managing Director at the University of Washington
@jill
"Marilyn was passionate about international education and helping students, and learned quickly to handle all of the various complex situations that came her way. Marilyn was always calm and a good listener. Marilyn builds relationships well and would be a great addition to any team!"
Jackie Li, Director of Student Services at Northwestern University
@jackie
"Marilyn is driven, motivated, organized, and professional. She cared deeply about the international students she served and implemented several business processes that improved efficiency around the office. Despite the large workload within this high paced office, she consistently met deadlines and even lend her colleagues a helping hand. She was a breath of fresh air with lots of new exciting ideas that inspired her peers."
SeEun Kim, Academic Services Manager at the University of Washington
@seeun
"Collaborative, creative, and a true team player. She worked tirelessly to improve the student experience and improve processes for colleagues. I would not hesitate to recommend Marilyn for a Program/ Project Manager position, or quite frankly any role she sets her eyes on."
Hannah-Lynn Hullett, Program Manager at Microsoft
@hannahlynn
"Marilyn has outstanding customer service skills and the ability to learn and jump in quickly, demonstrate competency, and successfully take on any project or task! Marilyn was very effective and efficient, going above and beyond my expectations, balanced with her commitment to helping people."
Pauline Tolentino, Program Manager at the University of Washington
@pauline