Art and Design Faculty

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Learn more about our faculty

Benjamin Bates

I am an artist, designer, and animator with a passion for ethical design. I am deeply interested in developing my students' skills and helping them grow artistically. In addition to graphic design I have a love of film, especially animation. I also care deeply about LGBTQ topics and issues. He/they.

Tamara Hilton

I began my career in design after earning an Associate of Art in Interior Design from the Art Institute of Seattle. I later expanded my academic training with a Bachelor’s in Workforce Training from Southern Illinois University and a Master’s in Art Education from University of Nebraska, grounding my work in both creative practice and pedagogy.

I transitioned into higher education when I discovered a passion for teaching, joining Highline College as an adjunct design instructor before moving into a full‑time faculty role—where I have served for more than twenty years. During my time at Highline, I have led and supported multiple design programs, managed curriculum development across several disciplines, and contributed to initiatives that strengthen the college’s Art & Design pathways.

Sophia Kenny

Studying art and design is a powerful way to turn creativity into a meaningful, in-demand career. You can develop practical, job-ready skills in areas like graphic design, digital media, branding, and visual communication while building a professional portfolio that showcases your abilities to employers. With a focus on real-world projects and industry-relevant tools, art and design programs prepare graduates for careers in fields such as multimedia design, interior design, visual communication, fine arts, or drafting design. Whether entering the workforce directly or continuing their education, students gain the creative and technical expertise needed to compete—and succeed—in today’s design-driven economy.

Start Here, Stay Here!

Highline College offers students a seamless transition into our Bachelor of Applied Science in Integrated Design. Integrated Design takes a holistic approach by combining your passion for visual design, technology, and problem-solving with accessibility, equity, and universal design. You will discover the relationships between various design fields, and prepare yourself to become part of the next generation of forward-thinking designers.