Moore College of Art & Design Illustration alumna Joi Washington ’08 has officially been sworn in as mayor of Media, Pennsylvania, becoming the first Black woman to be elected to the office. Washington overwhelmingly won the mayoral election in November 2025 and began her first term in early January 2026.
As a freelance graphic designer and illustrator, Washington applies her creative background to shape her approach to civic leadership and community building. In interviews with Philadelphia Magazine and WHYY, Washington spoke about balancing a creative career with politics, noting how her art and design skills helped her on the campaign trail.
“Outside of politics, I am an artist. I have buttons and stickers that I designed myself for the campaign,” she told WHYY. “I was just recently working on some branding and graphics for a coffee shop and a bubble tea shop [that] a friend of mine is opening up soon.”
Washington describes her path from Moore and Philadelphia’s creative community to public service as a series of “crazy side quests.” She began canvassing with the local Democratic committee after finding the group on Facebook. After learning that her neighbors were concerned about pedestrian safety, she decided to run for Media Borough Council, to which she was elected in 2022.
Originally from the Germantown neighborhood of Philadelphia, Washington has lived in Media for more than a decade and says the borough’s walkability, sense of community, and vibrant local life drew her in. Her campaign and early priorities as mayor focus on issues like neighborhood connection, inclusivity and support for local businesses—all areas where her creative problem-solving and a collaborative mindset have come into play.
“I always think of the quote, ‘With great power comes great responsibility.’ It comes back down to wanting to make sure I’m still the friendly neighborhood mayor and making sure that people know that what I care about is what they care about,” Washington shared with Philadelphia Magazine.
Ultimately, Washington believes that her experiences and passions have shaped the kind of leader she wants to be.
“People from all different types of backgrounds should be represented in politics,” Washington told Philadelphia Magazine.
Photo: Kyle Kielinski
About Moore College of Art & Design
Moore College of Art & Design, the only historically women’s art and design college in the United States, prepares students for successful, high-impact careers. Our dynamic programs and uniquely inclusive environment foster creative excellence and amplify artistic potential, preparing our graduates to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of art and design. For more information about Moore, visit www.moore.edu and follow us on social media @moorecollegeart.
Want to learn more about our campus and majors? Contact our Admissions team at enroll@moore.edu or 215.965.4015 to set up a call or a campus visit. We’d love to tell you more!
