Camren Reed has always experienced the world differently. Growing up with hearing loss, he learned to rely on his creativity in the visual world to make sense of what others often heard. That perspective shaped how he communicated and expressed himself and eventually led him to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design from Colorado Mesa University this month.
Reed’s journey with hearing loss began in first grade in his hometown of Delta, Colorado. A perceptive teacher noticed a sudden drop in Reed's reading and writing scores and worked with his parents to determine the cause, which turned out to be hearing loss. Hearing aids provided some support, but school remained an obstacle.
“Even after getting hearing aids, school was still very hard at times,” Reed said. “I often had to work extra hard to catch up, and the classroom environment was sometimes difficult to navigate.”
Those challenges followed him through his education, particularly in lecture-heavy classes and noisy social settings, but they also shaped the way he connected with the world and eventually led him to art and design.
“I think I was drawn to art and design because it allowed me to express myself without worrying about that barrier of hearing,” Reed said. “Visual art became a way to tell stories and convey meaning when communication felt hard.”
By the time high school graduation rolled around, he knew design was the path that would let him build a future around his creative strengths. That path eventually led him to CMU.
“I definitely chose the right path studying at CMU,” Reed said. “I found I love the craft of graphic design even more than when I started.”
At CMU, faculty mentors became essential sources of support in Reed’s journey. Graphic design professors Eli Hall and Suzie Garner offered guidance, encouragement and opportunities.
“I wouldn’t have been so determined to continue my degree without them,” Reed said. “They’ve given me so many opportunities that helped me grow as an artist, designer and person.”
He also credits Professor Brooke Safken for inspiring his interest in visual storytelling and encouraging him to explore turning his art into a business. Animation professor Evan Curtis worked with Reed to add an animation minor to his degree, broadening his creative toolkit during his final year.
“All of them worked hard to make sure I could get the education I wanted despite my disability,” Reed said. “I’m truly grateful for these professors.”
One of Reed’s most meaningful accomplishments came when his mural design was selected for the Jac Kephart Fine Arts Building. After submitting a proposal and concept, he brought his vision to life. The design was inspired by the mythological creature Cerberus, which represents the building’s three floors.
“That project meant so much to me,” Reed said. “It was my way of leaving a mark on the art building.”
Looking back on his time at CMU, Reed said perseverance is his proudest achievement.
“College is not an easy path, and some of my situations made it even harder,” he said. “The fact that I could pick myself up and work through it is what I’m most proud of.”
Now a CMU graduate, Reed looks ahead with confidence and is ready for whatever the future has in store for him.
“The future is uncertain, but the fact that I made it through this means I can make it through anything,” he said.
Reed plans to pursue a career in graphic design and continue his freelance work. He’s also developing a small comic book business with a friend. He hopes his story inspires students who may be facing similar challenges.
“I hope people realize that you can complete the goals you set for yourself,” Reed said. “Even when the cards are stacked against you, you can get up and work through it.”