Setting out on uncharted waters can be exciting but frightening unless a person has a guide. Mary Ridgway, art director at Fort Hays State University, was that guide at the 2006 University College Designers Association regional conference in Nebraska City, Neb., in October.

Ridgway presented "Charting Open Seas: Managing Brand and Image in a Small Design Shop." She explained the joys and fears of managing a small design shop and also told of the benefits and problems.

Ridgway has had previous experience in a private institution and a metropolitan research institution.