Summer Hutson

UX Research and Design

San Francisco Bay Area

About

Hi, LinkedIn! I am a UX Designer with a heavy emphasis on qualitative UX research to create human-centered design solutions. I'm experienced in a wide array of design and research methodologies such as information architecture, user flows, wireframes, prototypes, visual design, usability studies, concept tests, and user interviews. I'm skilled in identifying problems, working cross-functionally with stakeholders, and leading product development at all phases. Outside of work, I love to DJ, spin fire and dance!

Experience

  • University of California, Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz, California, United States · Hybrid)
    • Web Coordinator
      Sep 2024 - Present · 1 yr 11 mos

      Led a division-wide digital transformation and migration to WordPress, applying UX research and design principles to streamline how students access support and services. Conducted comprehensive information architecture audits across all DSAS websites to simplify navigation, improve usability, and align content with student needs. Developed a scalable web strategy and governance framework, including transition roadmaps and coordinator guides, to support sustainable content management. Designed a cohesive digital identity system that unified multiple department sites under a consistent, accessible, and student-centered brand experience. Managed a cross-functional implementation process, coordinating timelines, stakeholders, and feedback loops to ensure a smooth and collaborative rollout. Synthesized stakeholder and user feedback into actionable design decisions, advancing accessibility, clarity, and trust in digital communications. Established a UX-driven web standard for the division—grounded in accessibility, consistency, and data-informed decision making.

    • Digital Communications Specialist
      Jun 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 2 mos

      Led design and development efforts using HTML and CSS for responsive web pages, ensuring alignment with project goals and brand standards Collaborated closely with copywriter and visual communications supervisor to create cohesive and effective designs Presented research, website architecture, and style guides to stakeholders, guiding decisions on site redesign and UX improvements Conducted user experience research to inform a user-centered redesign during a website transition to WordPress Managed and maintained nine websites using a content management system, ensuring compliance with UCSC’s brand and accessibility standards

  • UX Designer at Benten Technologies, Inc.
    Jul 2022 - Aug 2022 · 2 mos

    - Served as the design team lead to direct efforts, including strategy, research, project scope and deliverables - Directed weekly meetings and ongoing communications with stakeholders - Proposed strategic recommendations based on market research to drive a successful launch of the app and align with client objectives

  • UX/UI Career Track Bootcamp Student at Springboard
    Sep 2021 - Aug 2022 · 1 yr

    - Designed two mobile apps leveraging end-to-end product cycle methodology including foundational user research, heuristic evaluation, usability studies, sketching, information architecture, site maps, user flows, wireframing, and interactive prototyping - Leveraged user research and usability study to drive recommendations for a 5-day design sprint - Designed compelling content based on UX research and design best practices in compliance with accessibility standards - Worked with two experienced mentors in design and research from top-level companies

  • Account Assistant at FortyThree
    Jun 2021 - Sep 2021 · 4 mos

    - Leveraged market research to support approach to target client industries - Optimized social media campaigns for maximum exposure across client markets - Prioritized keyword research for Google Ads

  • Qualitative UX Researcher at Hutson Consulting Inc
    Mar 2021 - Sep 2021 · 7 mos

    - Led research for business consulting firm to understand usability and user perception of website - Utilized user testing to generate actionable recommendations for client - Produced research proposal by identifying stakeholder goals in interview