DSU Graduate Designing at the Intersection of Art, Technology, and Culture
May 5, 2026
For Obatola Layiwola, creativity and technology have always been closely connected.
Since graduating from Dakota State University in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Digital Arts and Design in Computer Graphics (Photography), Layiwola has built a career blending design, storytelling, and emerging technologies. Today, his work spans education technology, interactive media, and graduate research exploring how digital tools intersect with cultural identity and human experience.
Layiwola’s path to DSU began long before he arrived in Madison. Growing up in Nigeria, he developed strong interests in both the visual arts and the sciences. Finding an academic program that combined those passions, however, proved difficult.
“(DSU’s) interdisciplinary program(s), merging arts, science, and engineering, caught my attention as a teenager,” Layiwola said. “I had been heavily involved with the visual arts as a child growing up in Nigeria, but I was also skilled in the sciences.”
While searching for colleges through the College Board website, he discovered DSU’s Digital Arts and Design program; one of the few programs that integrated creative practice with technical training.
Once on campus, Layiwola immersed himself in the DSU community. He participated in student organizations, internships, and on-campus employment while building professional skills through classroom and extracurricular experiences.
“It was foundational for me, not only educationally but also in developing my identity,” he said.
Some of his most memorable lessons came from unexpected opportunities. During the summer, Layiwola practiced with the DSU football team, an experience that reinforced the value of persistence and teamwork.
“That experience taught me the importance of hard work, resilience, and teamwork,” he said.
Another highlight came in 2017 when he was selected for the DSU Homecoming Royalty Court, a moment that reinforced his sense of belonging on campus.
“These experiences in Madison were the first time I experienced recognition for my merits and acceptance of my personality,” Layiwola said. “I am forever thankful for my experiences there.”
Layiwola also credits DSU’s environment with shaping his outlook on opportunity and ambition.
“My time at DSU taught me that dreamers can succeed from anywhere,” he said. “The serene environment minimized distractions and allowed me to reflect and determine my own path in life.”
After graduating, Layiwola began building a career in the education technology sector. His work focused on designing and marketing digital tools used by K–12 schools across the country, including classroom behavior management systems, district communication platforms, and dashboards for learning management software.
“Obatola’s success is a great example of how creative and technical skills come together in the College of Arts and Sciences, preparing graduates to meet evolving workforce needs,” said Dr. Stacey Berry, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
Today, he is continuing to expand his creative practice through graduate studies at the University of Iowa. His research explores how cultural identity, digital technology, and social psychology intersect in modern storytelling and design.
“My thesis integrates performance art, experiential design, and website development to create a multi-layered visual experience aimed at deepening understanding in these critical areas,” he said.
Alongside his academic work, Layiwola remains involved in leadership and service. He has participated in graduate student senate initiatives, contributed to Habitat for Humanity projects, served as a juror for the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, and collaborated on exhibitions and digital projects.
Collaboration continues to shape his work today. Recent projects include creating interactive exhibits and participating in a bicycle design and fabrication program that brings together students from engineering, physics, and art and design disciplines.
“Life is inherently collaborative, requiring reflection, accountability, and shared responsibility,” he said.
For students beginning their own journeys, Layiwola encourages involvement and curiosity.
“Getting involved helps you develop a sense of identity among peers,” he said. “You learn to relate to collective experiences that shape ideals and patterns in life.”
As technology continues to evolve, he encourages students to remain adaptable.
"The world is rapidly evolving with technological advancement and an accelerating pace of innovation,” Layiwola said. “Working across disciplines — especially with AI-assisted workflows — will help you adapt and thrive.”
From Madison to the world, Layiwola’s journey reflects the interdisciplinary foundation that first drew him to DSU and continues to shape the way he designs, collaborates, and explores new creative possibilities.