River City Six: Holly Ryan

Meet Holly Ryan, Art Director at Strictly Business Magazine!

How did you get started in the business?

I graduated from Doane College with a Bachelor of Arts degree with an emphasis in Graphic Design and a minor in Communications. After graduation I worked at a small print shop for about a year and then decided it was time to take the next step in my career. As fate would have it, a graphic designer position with Strictly Business presented itself and I have been here ever since.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

I’m very excited to announce that as of this month I have accepted the role of Art Director at Strictly Business, as our previous Art Director, Tingleska, has transitioned out to fulfill her dreams of traveling and freelance. I could not be more thrilled about all of the new challenges ahead and I look forward to growing with the company.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

I am very proud to have my design work published in the magazine and seen by thousands of individuals in the Omaha and Lincoln communities every month. I have grown and developed some amazing relationships with the businesspeople I work with and I love having a hand in their success.

Tell us a little about your family.

My parents Tony and Dawn both live and work in my hometown of Friend, Nebraska. My dad is the co-owner of Brothers Equipment, Inc., a fertilizer application company, and my mom works at the dentist’s office as the office manager. Following in my footsteps my sister, Lexi, is a sophomore at Doane University (formerly Doane College). She is majoring in Elementary Education and is on the women’s basketball team. Also at home with my parents is the family dog, Gunner, a miniature long-haired Dachshund.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?

I was on the men’s varsity golf team in high school. Since my high school was so small, it was my only option. I was later recruited by Doane College to be part of their women’s golf program. I accepted a golf scholarship and participated throughout my college career.

What are you the most proud of?

For me, growing up in a small farm town will always be something I am very proud of and is a huge part of who I am today.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?

Friendly. (I’ll be your friend from Friend!)

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?

Cosmetology.

Which talent would you most like to have?

Singing.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?

I love to plan and organize (I get that from my mom). So I think I would really enjoy being an event planner and coordinator.

What is your favorite movie?

The Sandlot.

What is your favorite TV show?

Friends has always been a favorite of mine. I’ve seen every episode more times than I can count.

What is your favorite local restaurant?

The Cheesecake Factory.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

My new email will be design@strictlybusinessomaha.com or you can reach me in the office at (402) 466-3330.