Welcome to the MillsIdeas, LLC website.
MillsIdeas, llc, is a small independent think tank and innovation center that functions as an umbrella organization for • Thomas Mills & Associates est. 1996, a full-service marketing, design, branding and identity enhancement firm; • Studio 721, a fine art studio and gallery space at the Park Trades Center in Kalamaoo, MI, • Mills Gaming Systems, a boardgame scenery and gaming concepts development company and… • Altruis, a visual communications resource for nonprofit organizations.
This is an experiment. I am practicing exactly what I’ve been advocating for the past two years…develop and employ disposable websites. Stay tuned.
Professional Information:
Current Projects/Clients:
1) Adjunct Special Projects Liaison (Branding Team/Lead Designer for Kalamazoo Valley Community College),
2) Part-Time Advanced Graphic Design Instructor (Kalamazoo Valley Community College),
3) Marketing & Design Consultant for One2Pro – an entrepreneurial firm specializing in bringing green products to the retail market.
2010 – President of MillsIdeas, llc*
1996 – 2009 President of Thomas Mills & Associates
Prior to 1996 – (1979-1996) Southern Graphics Systems (Prepress & Design Coordinator & Account Representative/Kraft Foods), Village Graphics (Electronic Color and Design Director), Kalamazoo Banner Works (Chief Operating Officer), United Way (Communications Director) & Nazareth College (Communications Director)
Active member on several local nonprofit boards.
Since 2000 – Advanced Graphic Design Instructor/KVCC Center for New Media
June 2009 – Adjunct Faculty/KVCC Branding Initiative Team
Major Accomplishments
2008 Chicago Innovation Awards Nominee
Summit Awards* Silver and Bronze award winner
*International Design Competition for Agencies billing under $10 million annually
