From Cecil College to the NFL, Zach Osborne designs his dream job
Published on December 3, 2024
NORTH EAST, Md: Cecil College alumnus, Zach Osborne is living his dream, having taken his talents in graphic design from the small community of Rising Sun, Md., to the city lights of Washington, DC, where he is a member of the Washington Commanders’ marketing office. This journey reflects his passion for visual communication, determination, and connection to his family. Mr. Osborne’s career trajectory is a testament to hard work and the value of a supportive foundation.
Growing up in Rising Sun, Md., attending Rising Sun High School, his journey into graphic design began at age 13 when he started creating designs for fun. However, it wasn’t until he landed his first internship at 16 with the professional Premier Lacrosse League that he realized graphic design could become a career.
Mr. Osborne further pursued his passion by enrolling at Cecil College, a decision influenced by his mother’s employment at the College, which offers employee tuition reimbursement benefits. Mr. Osborne earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Visual Communication – Graphic Design in 2022, which built the foundation for his professional career.
During his studies at Cecil College, Mr. Osborne found mentorship from two influential professors: Assistant Professor of Visual Communications Jonathan Cone and Assistant Professor of Visual Communications Adam Jacono. Mr. Osborne focused on graphic design and was interested in 3D design and visual communications. These professors not only helped him refine his skills but also guided him in creating a professional portfolio. Assistant Professor Jacono’s portfolio class, in particular, was a pivotal experience, helping Mr. Osborne gain confidence and direction in his career.
“Zach brought an amazing combination of talent, work ethic, and positivity. His design abilities are incredible, and we still have prints from when he worked part-time for the Orioles hanging in the classroom,” said Assistant Professor of Visual Communications Adam Jacono. “Zach’s success at navigating the creative industry and landing positions at top-tier organizations is a direct result of his unwavering drive and professional vision.”
Just before graduating, Mr. Osborne felt uncertain about his next steps. Despite applying for jobs, he hadn’t heard back and thought he missed the opportunity, including one at Penn State University. However, a few weeks later, while attending Assistant Professor Cone’s class, Mr. Osborne received the call for a Penn State interview, and began working full-time at the University as a recruiting designer in June 2022.
Mr. Osborne was part of the football team’s creative content group at Penn State. His responsibilities included creating graphics for recruitment, special events, and photo shoots. As his skills developed, Mr. Osborne was promoted to multimedia specialist, where he expanded his work to include photography and social media. The fast-paced environment at Penn State allowed Mr. Osborne to grow quickly, pushing his creative abilities and providing him with valuable experience in sports media.
In April 2024, after two years at Penn State, Mr. Osborne made the decision to return home and pursue a role with the Washington Commanders. The opportunity allowed him to be closer to his family and take on new challenges in a professional environment he had long dreamed of: the NFL.
When he interviewed with the Washington Commanders, his portfolio showcased his professional, intentional and consistent work, impressing his future supervisor. Mr. Osborne was thrilled to join the team, and his first week on the job coincided with the NFL Draft — a thrilling and high-pressure experience that marked the beginning of his NFL career.
As a graphic designer focused on social media, Mr. Osborne works alongside another designer and a creative team that includes three designers, an art director, and a senior creative director. Although the work is demanding, especially during the football season, Mr. Osborne relishes the opportunity to work in the NFL and be part of a team with a significant impact on fans and the organization.
Mr. Osborne is deeply grateful for the support of his parents, particularly his mother, whose employment at Cecil College helped ensure Mr. Osborne graduated without accumulating substantial student debt. Mr. Osborne credits his upbringing and his parents’ sacrifices as the keys to his success.
“My mom worked for the State of Delaware for over 30 years, and then she transitioned to Cecil College,” he explains. “She didn’t have to work there, but I think part of the reason she did was so I could attend and get a great education at a more affordable price. She helped light a fire under me to get my degree and really pursue my career. I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity they provided me.”
Looking back on his journey, Mr. Osborne sees his career as a series of steps, each one building on the last. He reflects on how his experiences at Cecil College, Penn State, and now with the Washington Commanders have shaped him as both a designer and a person. His passion for graphic design and his desire to work in the NFL have driven him; now, he’s living his dream.