Ivonne de la Paz

Whether designing a course catalog, updating the website, or posting an upcoming event on social media, Ivonne de la Paz, A.B. ’01, enjoys showcasing the School of Architecture. “This is an inspiring place to work,” says the school’s graphics and web publications coordinator, who also contributes to the school’s capital campaign and the University’s annual fund. “I feel fortunate to be able to give back.”

A native of South Florida, de la Paz has always loved art and architecture. She studied architectural history at Miami Dade College, where she earned her associate’s degree in 1999 before transferring to the University of Miami’s College of Arts and Sciences. “I worked full time at the college, and benefited from the University’s tuition remission program,” she says. “Now, my gifts can help other students fulfill their educational dreams.”

With degree in hand, de la Paz went to work at the School of Architecture’s Center for Urban and Community Design in a position funded by a federal grant. She worked closely with faculty in preparing an exhibition and two publications on designing affordable homes. When the grant ended, de la Paz was offered the job of publications coordinator, and jumped at the opportunity.

“I really enjoy being a graphic designer, working on everything from campus maps to faculty publications and flyers for our exhibits,” she says. “Much like an interior designer, creating appealing visual compositions requires thinking about space, color, and what elements to emphasize and/or understate.”

When she’s not designing print and online publications, de la Paz enjoys spending time with her husband, Anthony Calzadilla, their son, Alek, and daughter, Ayla, who was recently accepted into the fine arts program at the New World School of the Arts. She also likes to spend time outdoors, exercising, bicycling, and swimming.

“I am very thankful to the University for giving me so many opportunities to grow, both personally and professionally,” she says. “I can’t imagine a better place to work.”

Read about other faculty and staff who support the U.