University of Virginia Investment Management Company
UVIMCO Report & Brand Refresh
Objective
The University of Virginia Investment Management Company (UVIMCO) is located in the heart of Charlottesville, Virginia. UVIMCO aimed to refresh and elevate their brand identity with the launch of their 2020–2021 Annual Report. The goal was to present the organization in a cohesive way that reflects its core values, highlights its community of students, faculty, and staff, and communicates its mission of fostering lifelong learning. The project served as a key step in strengthening UVIMCO’s visual presence and connecting its story to a wider audience.
Roles
Art Direction
Design Lead
Design System
Conceptualization
Deliverables
Website Redesign
Printed + Digital Annual Report
One pager
PowerPoint Template
Word Template
Timeframe
12 weeks
Oct – Dec 2021
Concept
The concept drew inspiration from the organization’s logo, which incorporates the “Rotunda,” a symbol of academic heart and architectural tradition. Translating this into design, the front columns of the Rotunda were reimagined as a simplified three-line column grid. Each line represents a core pillar of the community: 1) students, 2) faculty, and 3) staff, while their infinite extension conveys UVIMCO’s forward-moving mission and the lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
Phase 1: Annual Report + Rebrand
Building on the concept, the Annual Report design (print + digital) applies the lines flowing across layouts, creating a sense of structure and continuity throughout the publication, and guiding readers through the content while highlighting the stories of the community. The report not only communicates key information but also reinforces UVIMCO’s identity and mission in a visually cohesive way.
Digital report website
Phase 2: Website + Collateral redesign
Following the 2020–2021 Annual Report, the refreshed design concept was extended across UVIMCO communications such as PowerPoint + Word templates, social media graphics, and its website. This cohesive application reinforces UVIMCO’s brand identity, ensuring a consistent visuals while strengthening the organization’s connection with its community and stakeholders.
Problem
As part of the University of Virginia (UVA), UVIMCO shares the UVA brand identity, but its website did not reflect this visual connection. The client also wanted a refreshed design with clearer hierarchy and stronger contrast to help the audience navigate content more effectively.
Results
The redesigned website and brand refresh elevated UVIMCO’s digital identity with stronger contrast and a more intentional visual hierarchy. The use of its signature blue reinforced alignment with UVA and improved recognition and engagement. Bounce rate fell from 70.28% to 58.26%, average session duration increased from 0:35 to 0:40, and engagement rate rose from 29.7% to 41.7% YoY, indicating more meaningful interaction. The success of the refresh later informed updates to the main UVA website, extending its impact across the broader university ecosystem today.