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University of Notre Dame BA Honors Thesis
The Cost Of Excellence:
Visualizing the Financial Divide Among Olympic Athletes
Completed as part of the University of Notre Dame Design Department Honors Program, this independent thesis represents one of the most rigorous academic design projects in the department. Only seven students were selected to complete an honors thesis, each working individually under the guidance of a faculty advisor from concept through final exhibition.
About
Project Overview
The Cost of Excellence examines the global funding gap faced by Olympic athletes and the unequal financial realities behind elite performance. Through research, interviews, and data analysis, the project visualizes how disparities in public, private, and nonprofit support shape athletic opportunity.
Using narrative-driven design, infographics, and athlete storytelling, the work connects systemic inequality with individual journeys. By visualizing inequality and amplifying overlooked voices, The Cost of Excellence asks: Where do athletes fall through the cracks, and what can we do to close them?
What did I do?
Conducted original research, analyzed funding data, and interviewed athletes and stakeholders. Designed a narrative campaign including large-scale infographics, athlete profiles, and visual storytelling assets presented through print, digital, and exhibition formats.
Skills
Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe AfterEffects, with data analysis in Excel. Final work produced across large-scale print, exhibition graphics, and vinyl applications.
The Final Exhibit
The joy of exhibit-goers interacting with my work
A picture taken by my proud parents
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