About
Students and faculty from the Department of Media Arts & Technologies (MAT) at MiraCosta College collaborated on the & Campaign to support student scholarships in the department. Playing on the idea of an ad campaign, the "And Campaign" features the power of "and" as a metaphor for community, connection, and possibility.
The campaign is supported by the MiraCosta College Foundation and its vision to provide educational opportunities for all. The campaign embraces the Foundation’s mission to promote the benefits of MiraCosta College and secure resources that transform lives.
The campaign — including this website, the branding (which is not a font, but a uniquely designed logo), t-shirt, posters, and video — were created and designed by students in MAT 270 - Advanced Design Studio. It is made by students for the benefit of other students.
We’ve chosen the iconic ampersand (&) character as a symbol for our “and campaign.” It is beloved by designers for its typographic beauty, rich history, and expressive versatility. It can be playful, elegant, sophisticated, or simple, depending on the context. This makes it a favorite for branding, logos, book covers, and creative applications.
But, the real power of “and” lies in its deeper cultural significance and symbolic meaning. It symbolizes connection, a bridge between two words, ideas, or people. Metaphorically, it is a reminder of the beauty of collaboration, inclusion, community, and possibility. Say the word “and” and there’s more to the story; more to the idea; more coming to the party. It’s a bridge to new ideas and perspectives. It encourages us to keep our minds open to new possibilities and opportunities. It celebrates diversity as a strength and the value in every individual. Plus, it reminds us that we are not alone, that we are part of something bigger, and that we are all connected.
“Metaphorically, ’&‘ is a reminder of the beauty of collaboration, inclusion, community, and possibility.”
Last, but not least, the ampersand is embedded in our name! We are the Department of Media Arts &Technologies. Our classes — in graphic design, web, UI/UX, digital imaging, video, animation, and more — emphasize both professional artistic practices and technical skills. Our industry is interdisciplinary by nature, combining skills from art and design and communication and business and technology. We serve students from all backgrounds and all walks of life. Students join our community for a variety of reasons. Some want to get a job, enhance their job prospects, or become freelancers. Some want to transfer to a four-year college or university. Others just want to be creative, have fun, and enhance their skills.
Help us embrace the power of "and" as an invitation to keep exploring, growing, and pushing ourselves towards greater heights. Just as “and” connects ideas, we can connect students with opportunities. Together, we are capable of achieving incredible things. Join our & Campaign today and help our students bridge the gap between what they dream of doing and what they can achieve.
Your contributions will directly support students through scholarship funds managed by the MiraCosta College Foundation. Give today and receive our super awesome & t-shirt as a token of appreciation. Then, wear it with pride as a symbol of connection and in knowing that you’re supporting students in their journey to turn passion into possibility.