Strategic Programs Team

Katie Edmonds is a strategic designer specializing in the intersection of design and research. As Studio Lead, she develops and delivers programs that introduce and develop strategic design capabilities. Directly prior to joining RISD she worked in New York City at the intersection of nonprofit and government developing strategic interventions in economically vulnerable communities. This practice was based in placemaking and participatory design on topics including public safety and smart cities for clients including the NYC Mayor’s Office of Tech and Innovation and the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice. Prior to her graduate studies she worked in Silicon Valley and New York City in a variety of startup contexts focusing on entertainment and technology. She holds a Masters degree in Media Studies and a Masters degree in Transdisciplinary Design from Parsons School of Design, and an undergraduate degree in Political Science from the University of California at Berkeley.

Charlene Sequeira is a design and communication strategist currently working as a Studio Lead for the Strategic Design Programs in India. Prior to RISD, she built over a decade of experience across UAE, Oman, India, and USA. She has worked in print and digital media, retail experience design, brand strategy, community engagement, social innovation, and education with a diverse portfolio of international clients. Working across cultures, industries, and design mediums brings openness and adaptability in Charlene’s approach to systemic issues. She holds a Master’s degree in Communications Design from Pratt Institute, New York. Her final thesis on pedagogy and systems change for sustainable cultures was showcased at the European Academy of Design Conference (EAD) 2019. Her ongoing professional work explores low-carbon print and digital communication, and provides workshops around sustainability and design.