Julie Mendez is a designer, thinker, leader, visionary, and artist. Her work is informed by research that explores veterans’ issues and attempts to bridge the communication gap between veterans, civilians, and clinicians. In her MFA thesis work, she used a variety of research methodologies and interventions to create awareness about the increasing number of veteran suicides and the struggles veterans face due to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Julie’s educational background and military experience allow her to apply strategic thinking and problem solving skills across diverse media and industries. She received a Masters of Fine Art in Design in 2011 from California College of the Arts in San Francisco. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of California, Davis in 2008, with a major in Visual Communication and a minor in Chicano/Chicana Studies.