Jill Engel
Milwaukee,WI
Summary
Dynamic communications leader and visual storyteller with over thirty years of professional experience in multi-channel content creation, brand development, and strategic communications. Recognized for innovative storytelling methodologies and a proven track record of curriculum design, keynote presentations, and multimedia production. Skilled in podcast production, visual content strategy, and community-based engagement. Strong leadership across institutional brand building, team collaboration, and communication strategy aligned with diverse audiences.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Visual Arts Educator / Artist / Storyteller
Milwaukee Public Schools – The Alliance School
01.2006 - Current
- Designed visual arts programming for the first LGBTQ+ anti-bullying charter school in the U.S.
- Created interdisciplinary storytelling curriculum integrated with SEL and restorative practices.
- Led community exhibitions, school-wide showcases, and family engagement events.
- Directed team operations, compliance, and staff development initiatives.
- Utilized innovative teaching strategies to effectively engage students in learning.
District Arts Mentor
Milwaukee Public Schools
- Served on district curriculum committees and school improvement initiatives.
- Facilitated Edgenuity implementation for credit-deficient students.
- Collaborated with fellow mentors to exchange best practices, ensuring continuous improvement of mentoring strategies.
Podcast Creator & Producer
I've Got A Story Now
01.2024 - Current
- Developed and launched an independent storytelling podcast highlighting community stories about survival, love, power, freedom and fun
- Produced episodes on Apple and Spotify focused on creative expression and local culture.
Professor of Art & Art Education
Concordia University
01.2022 - Current
- Designed curriculum for drawing foundations and art methods courses.
- Trained future educators in visual storytelling, pedagogy, and inclusive practice.
Creative Consultant & Visual Artist
Independent Practice
01.1992 - Current
- Managed creative process from concept to completion for various art projects.
- Developed art and design concepts.
- Worked with clients to understand desired outcomes and requirements.
- Utilized digital techniques to create and enhance artwork.
Education
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) - Fine Arts
University of Wisconsin
01.1996
K-12 Art Education Licensure - undefined
Cardinal Stritch University
01.2009
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) - Fine Arts
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Lincoln, NebraskaMasters of Fine Arts - Studio Arts
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee-Peck School of The Arts
Milwaukee, WISkills
- Brand Development: Visual identity, messaging, and multi-platform strategy
- Content Production: Podcasting, curriculum writing, storytelling frameworks
- Team Leadership: Departmental oversight, mentorship, PD facilitation
- Community Engagement: Partnerships, exhibitions, school events
- Strategic Planning: Program design, school improvement, compliance
- Multimedia production
Awards
Milwaukee Public Schools Teacher of the Year – The Metropolitan Milwaukee Alliance of Black School Educators (MMABSE) (2013), Milwaukee County Emerging Artist Grant Recipient (1997), Layton School of Art Fellowship (1993–96)
Training
- Workshop Presenter, Harvard Graduate School of Education (2018)
- Presenter, IIRP World Conference – Belgium (2018)
- Presenter, National Art Education Association (Minneapolis 2020)
- Workshop Facilitator, Wisconsin Art Education Association (2018–Present)
- Presenter, NCECA – National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (2014)
Timeline
Podcast Creator & Producer
I've Got A Story Now
01.2024 - Current
Professor of Art & Art Education
Concordia University
01.2022 - Current
Visual Arts Educator / Artist / Storyteller
Milwaukee Public Schools – The Alliance School
01.2006 - Current
Creative Consultant & Visual Artist
Independent Practice
01.1992 - Current
K-12 Art Education Licensure - undefined
Cardinal Stritch University
District Arts Mentor
Milwaukee Public Schools
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) - Fine Arts
University of Wisconsin
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) - Fine Arts
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Masters of Fine Arts - Studio Arts
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee-Peck School of The Arts
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