Get to know John Connolly: Co-founder, Executive Creative Director of Ideas On Purpose

John Connolly co-founded Ideas On Purpose (IOP), an NLGCC certified business, nearly 24 years ago. With a talent for impeccable design and detail, as well as a deep love for beauty, order and typography, John’s masterful, guiding hand can be felt in all IOP’s branded impact communications, websites, and sustainability reports. 

Since the earliest days, IOP has been focused on supporting and amplifying the citizenship, diversity, and sustainability efforts of our clients, working at the intersection of business and society to create a fairer, healthier, sustainable world.

“I’ve always been focused on creating a collaborative design studio where everyone’s voice matters – whether you have 6 months or 20 years’ experience. We are one team and our collective approach is what drives great work and creates pride for everyone at IOP.”

In addition to the company’s focus, John and the IOP team offer a bi-annual, pro bono initiative, Brand New Brand! Through a juried process, one nonprofit recipient is rebranded at no cost, including brand strategy, visual identity, website, messaging—the works. The program is running its 5th cycle now. 

In addition to his IOP work, John has shared his knowledge and love of graphic design and typography as a teacher at his undergraduate alma mater, The University of the Arts and has been a guest speaker at several universities and has mentored many LGBTQ people over the years. He is a member of the AIGA and previously served for three years on Appleton Coated’s National Design Council. His work has been recognized in design media including ID Magazine, Communication Arts, Graphis and many others, as well as sustainability focused recognition including IR Magazine, the Corporate Register, the ESG Awards and others.