“ Your playing small does not serve the world. Who are you not to be great?”
-Nelson Mandela
Meet Tomlynn Biondo, a powerful Creative Director with an expansive and impressive portfolio working with companies we all love and know. Tomlynn is truly an inspiration to all students within Marywood’s art department! Tomlynn is not only a power house at work, but she also rocked Marywood with a bachelor’s in graphic design with two minors in photography and illustration in 2006. She did not stop there, returning to get her masters in 2012. She is now an In-Studio Art Director at King Author Baking Company. Continue reading to take a peek into this amazing designer’s life, career, and thoughts!
What attracted you to this career path?
Creativity has always been at the heart of who I am. From a young age, I was drawn to the world of design, instinctively knowing it was the path I wanted to pursue. I vividly remember reimagining my room every week, constantly rearranging, refining, and experimenting with space. The challenge of transforming spaces into something both beautiful and functional has always sparked a deep passion in me. Design, in all its forms, is the invisible thread that shapes our surroundings and influences our daily lives. I’m endlessly inspired by the ever-evolving ways it manifests in the world around me.
How did your art education at Marywood help your career?
The variety of courses I took at Marywood University was instrumental in shaping my path to success. From critiques to figure drawing sessions to the hands-on experience of developing my own film in the darkroom, every challenge contributed to my growth. Late nights in the studio, pushing myself to meet deadlines, were just as transformative as the technical skills I gained. Beyond the craft, I learned invaluable lessons in responsibility, leadership, and inspiration. All of these experiences came together to form the foundation of who I am as a creative today, equipping me with the tools and mindset to thrive in my field.
What was your favorite part about studying art at Marywood?
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Marywood University for several reasons, most notably the strong reputation of its dynamic Art Department. Additionally, the university’s location in a smaller, safe, and welcoming city (Scranton, PA) enhanced the overall experience.
Evolving the way you work while growing in the industry!
I asked Tomlynn if her day-to-day is what she thought it would be. She answered with something that I think is super important for those of us who want to go out into the professional work force. She pointed out that just because your work style may change, depending on your role, it does not mean that it takes away from creativity and design! We must evolve with our careers! Tomlynn answered with this;
I’m in far more meetings than I ever imagined I’d be! I do miss the days when I could slip on my headphones and dive into design without interruption, but I’ve come to realize that’s part of the evolution in my role. Over time, I’ve shifted into more of a creative leadership space—learning not just the craft, but how to lead and nurture a team. I found my place in the CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) world about a decade ago, and it’s been a great fit. My journey began in the homecare industry at Seventh Generation, and now I’m with King Arthur Baking Co. in the baking industry. I’ve learned a lot and continue to do so every day.
Team work makes that dream work! What is your favorite thing about your current job?
Without a doubt, it’s my team. The people I work with are not only incredibly talented and driven, but we also share a great sense of humor, which makes every challenge a bit easier to tackle. I lead a team of 10, and each person brings something unique to the table—everyone plays a vital role in keeping us running smoothly. Without each of us pulling our weight, we wouldn’t be the cohesive, dynamic unit that we are. And, of course, working for a baking company isn’t too shabby either—especially since I’m a big fan of cookies! It’s the perfect blend of creativity, teamwork, and a little indulgence along the way.
Are you currently working on any interesting side projects?
I used to juggle a lot of side projects—it was a great way to earn a little extra cash and explore new creative avenues. But now, as a mom of 4, my personal time is dedicated to family. It’s a beautiful shift, and I’ve come to appreciate how it allows my design mind to rest and recharge. It’s like giving my creativity a breather, letting it step away from the hustle for a while so it can come back even stronger. Life’s balance has shifted, and I’m grateful for how it’s giving me space to reset and refocus.
Sometimes the biggest rewards come with being in a team!
The most rewarding moments I’ve had have been when I’ve had the privilege of promoting someone on my team. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in acknowledging their hard work and celebrating the success they’ve truly earned. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact recognition can have and the value of lifting others up. I also get a huge sense of pride watching our brand grow and evolve. As one of the oldest brands in America, we’ve now earned the title of the #1 flour brand in the country—something we were able to proudly announce this year. Being part of a team that’s not only winning, but growing, is exhilarating. Watching my team members flourish and achieve their goals is what makes it all the more rewarding.
What inspires you?
I find inspiration in the world all around me—the tiny, intricate details that often go unnoticed, and the larger movements where people are making real change. My kids are a constant source of inspiration; they remind me daily to do good in the world and to stand up for what’s right. They teach me the importance of questioning, of challenging the status quo, and I believe that mindset applies to design as well. It’s about digging deeper, uncovering the essence, and creating something that feels true to its core. I also take great inspiration from the powerful women who came before me and those who are rising today. Women in leadership is no longer a rarity, and I’m deeply inspired by the women who fight for others, lifting each other up and forging paths for the next generation. There’s strength in that solidarity, and it fuels my own drive.
Any advice for current art students at Marywood?
I’ve spent nearly 20 years in the design industry, wearing many hats along the way. Even now, I find myself looking back fondly on my college days at Marywood. It was a time of discovery—meeting incredible people, making lasting memories, and, honestly, having a lot of fun. I didn’t always take it as seriously as I probably should have, but I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything. If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be to embrace your youth—there’s a whole world of responsibility ahead, but right now, you’ve got the perfect balance of freedom and opportunity. Work hard, but don’t forget to have fun.
I want to thank Tomlynn for sharing her life with us. After having 9 work meetings, Tomlynn was able to set aside some time to answer my questions. This just shows how awesome she is. A mom of 4. A leader of 10. A designer for the world. This woman can truly do it all! I hope we all can take a bit away from this interview, seeing that hard work, dedication, and growth can make us great!
~Kelsey
Great interview! Go Tomlynn!