Sam Washburn, Assistant Professor, Design

What is your background?

I’ve worked as an illustrator and graphic designer for the past decade or so and started teaching about 5 years ago. I’m an illustration fanatic and have done research in the field as well as produced work for clients like The New York Times, Reader’s Digest and Scientific
American. My work has been recognized by associations like Communication Arts, American Illustration, the Society of Illustrators and the American Advertising Federation.
I started teaching to be an advocate for illustration and design and am proud to be part of a fantastic team here at UCO.

Tell me how you first got involved at UCO. 

I came to UCO to pursue an MFA in Graphic Design a few years ago and was fortunate enough to join as an adjunct instructor soon after. As time has passed I’ve climbed up the ranks to become an assistant professor in the School of Design.

What would you say your strongest beliefs are about your contributions to the university?

I’m proud of the work we put in as a faculty during this pandemic under some very challenging circumstances.

What do you do when you are not working?

Spend time with my family and/or exercise. 

Buddy Broncho made his first appearance in UCO's own newspaper The Vista. It was the October 3, 1932, issue where a Broncho appears wearing a UCO football uniform. He has appeared numerous times throughout the years from local Edmond papers in the 60's to state-wide papers in the 80's. The commissioning of the first ever live mascot appears in UCO's 1979 Bronze Book where Buddy Broncho made his first public appearance at Homecoming. Since that time, Buddy has been a fixture at UCO events and in the hearts of UCO students.