Monique VanAssche-Dermer

With over 30 years in the design and branding industry, Monique VanAssche-Dermer is the founder and owner of Mad Studio, LLC, a woman-owned creative agency she has led for over 20 years. Monique’s career began in Chicago, designing for major brands including General Mills, Kellogg, and G. Heileman Brewing Company, and she quickly developed a deeper passion for brand strategy, design, and creative problem-solving. Her love of the outdoors took her to Denver, Colorado, where she worked on brands such as Molson-Coors, Universal Studios, and Coca-Cola. Among the many brands she has worked with, one she particularly enjoyed was being on the ground floor launching and growing Smashburger into an international brand, reflecting her talent for creating compelling, memorable brand experiences.

Monique was introduced to graphic design at a young age and credits her inspiration to teachers who recognized and encouraged her to pursue art, coaches, and her parents who showed her entrepreneurship. She graduated from Columbus College of Art & Design in Columbus, Ohio in 1992, and early recognition of her talent included awards from the AIGA and Society of Illustrators in NYC. Her expertise spans brand positioning, development, and touchpoint strategy, along with extensive experience in client engagement, networking, and collaborative creative processes.

At Mad Studio, Monique has helped shape brands across multiple industries, including Vail Resorts, Smashburger, Breckenridge-Wynkoop properties, and numerous start-ups, blending design-forward thinking with insight-led strategies. She is deeply committed to fostering relationships, mentorship, and leadership within the creative community, actively participating in WPO (Women Presidents Organization) monthly chapter meetings and mentoring initiatives through Naturally Colorado.

Beyond her professional work, Monique is passionate about supporting causes that create a positive impact on behavior, people, and the planet. She continues to pursue personal interests such as travel, snowboarding, live music, arts and culture, yoga, hiking, surfing, and golfing (to name a few). Her dedication to community and professional development has earned her recognition and awards, reflecting her impact both in the creative industry and society at large.

• Columbus College of Art & Design - BFA

• Women Presidents Organization