Donna Williams
Background
Donna brings over 35 years of professional and teaching experience in Graphic Design. A graduate of the North East Wales Institute of Visual Communication, she began her career in leading design agencies across the UK and Sydney, Australia, working with high-profile clients in diverse sectors. She later established intensive training courses for design students, bridging the gap between industry demands and creative education.
Since returning to Wales, Donna has been part of UWTSD’s teaching community, where she is now Senior Lecturer and Programme Manager for BA (Hons) Graphic Design. She has led the programme’s development, supporting students and a thriving alumni network of successful graduates. Alongside her academic role, she is also a trained Integrative Counsellor, playing a key role in establishing pastoral care systems and contributing to the foundations of the university’s Wellbeing Centre—reflecting her belief that creativity flourishes best when wellbeing is supported.
Specialist Subjects
- Visual Studies
- Ways of Thinking and Ways of Perceiving
- Research in Context and Research in Practice
- Social Graphics
- Dissertations
- Graduate Portfolio
- Sustainability in Design
- Self-Promotion and Professional Practice
Professional and/or Research Experience
Her dual expertise in design and therapy underpins her teaching philosophy: exploring how creativity can act as a transformative process and how design practice can contribute positively to society. Her teaching integrates cutting-edge industry innovation with a focus on wellbeing, preparing graduates to thrive both professionally and personally.
Qualifications
- MA Integrative Masters specialising in counselling practice and the application of counselling skills in creative education – University of Wales Trinity Saint David
- SFHEA Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy
- Three-year Professional Training (HND level) as an Integrative Counsellor – University of Glamorgan
- HND in Visual Communication – NEWI now Glyndŵr University
- Foundation in Art and Design – Carmarthen College of Art
Languages Spoken
Professional Membership or Roles
Academic Teaching
External Recognition or Rewards
• UWTSD Women of the Year (2022, 2023, 2024)
• Aurora Women in Leadership (2024)
• Welsh Language Integration Award (2024)