DaJaniere’s vision for success involves leveraging her artistic and design expertise to create visually compelling and socially relevant work.

DaJaniere Rice is a graphic designer and multidisciplinary artist currently pursuing a Master of Science in user experience design and research at the University of Michigan School of Information (UMSI). DaJaniere returned to graduate school after a six-year hiatus, during which she honed her skills as a graphic designer in Toledo, Ohio, and Ann Arbor. She is proudly the first in her family to attend graduate school, setting a powerful example for her siblings and community. DaJaniere’s artistic talents have been showcased in numerous exhibitions throughout southeastern Michigan, including a solo exhibition at Detroit Contemporary in 2023. DaJaniere writes that her art “spreads awareness about mental health” and other important social issues.

In addition to producing her own work, DaJaniere has volunteered extensively with the Prison Creative Arts Program, facilitating creative writing workshops for inmates at the Cotton Prison Facility. This experience has reinforced DaJaniere’s belief that “positive change is achievable for anyone who desires it.” She has been a creative writing facilitator and art workshop leader, providing accessible and affordable art experiences through her business, Janier Co. Her contributions to the arts and her community have earned her recognition including the UMSI Achievement Fellowship.

DaJaniere’s vision for success involves leveraging her artistic and design expertise to create visually compelling and socially relevant work. She aims to engage in collaborative projects that use art as a tool for social change, making a positive impact on both a local and global scale. One of DaJaniere’s mentors celebrates DaJaniere’s uniqueness: “What can’t be taught is that way of carrying oneself and showing up that invites connection and provokes curiosity. Especially in her field, being the kind of person that people want to work with and talk to is crucial. DaJaniere is just such a person.”

CEW+ is inspired by DaJaniere’s artistic vision and names her a Margaret Dow Towsley Scholar.