Cathleen Schaad is an accomplished creative professional and strategic thinker with 30 years experience in publishing, communication design and project management. In 2019 Cathleen got her start as a children’s book designer at Charlesbridge Publishing, where she loves channeling her talents and energy into making picture books and middle-grade novels. She has designed and art directed multiple titles that have been recognized by the Society of Illustrators, earned starred reviews from leading trade journals, topped many best of and best-selling lists and received accolades, such as the Pura Belpré Youth Illustrator Award for Popo the Xolo, which she co-designed.

Previously Cathleen was principal at her own boutique freelance business Studio Schaad Design, as well as, a senior designer at WGBH Design, a nationally renowned graphics studio at Boston’s PBS station.

Cathleen graduated from Massachusetts College of Art and Design with a degree in Communication Design and has pursued further studies at Lesley University and the Center for Digital Image Arts at Boston University.

Cathleen lives in Melrose, MA, with her husband, dog, cat and two tortoises.

For more information visit their LinkedIn profile.

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“I had the absolute pleasure to work with Cat at Charlesbridge Publishing on the illustrations for my debut kidlit illustration project VROOM, BABY DRIVER, ZOOM. Cat is the picture of professionalism and an absolute delight to work with. She clearly defines expectations without being prescriptive. She honors the creative process, providing a welcoming space to play and produce. She is always open to questions and new ideas. But what I appreciated most about Cat is the constant support she provided. She was so encouraging and uplifting. She made my first project in the field such a positive experience. Truly, Cat is a dream art director.“—Nancy Goulet, Principal and Creative Director at studiowink

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