Endrias Zewde ’03

A senior UI/UX designer and web developer for CACI International in Washington, D.C., Endrias Zewde is an award-winning graphic designer who also works as a part-time professor for the Art Institute of Washington and co-founder of the Mutete HIV/AIDS Foundation. In 2012, Mr. Zewde was the Art Takes Time Square Billboard Premier winner and a member of Who’s Who Among Executives & Professionals in 2010.

Why did you choose La Roche?

I was one of the lucky students who received the Pacem in Terris Scholarship to attend La Roche University.

What impact did La Roche have on you as a person?

My life was changed 15 years ago when the Pacem in Terris Institute and the Sisters of Divine Providence at La Roche gave me a chance to get the best education when I was desperately in need of that. Since then I have promised myself that it is my lifetime obligation to pass on opportunities to others.

Through the Mutete HIV/AIDS Foundation, I’m doing that. After graduation, I pursued a professional career and have found success in what I do. I create greater design solutions to satisfy my clients, but the work we do through Mutete satisfies my soul.

What are you most proud of when you look back on your experience at La Roche?

I cherish every moment I had while I was at La Roche. I’m proud of the friends I made along the way, the instructors who helped me realize my dreams, but most of all, the Sisters of Divine Providence who gave me a chance to receive an education.

What advice do you have for our students?

Create lasting friendships with your colleagues because those are the ones that you will probably need when transitioning from one career to another or when you need a door to open for you. Don’t be afraid to aim high when looking for a job. Don’t ever limit yourself. Have confidence.

While I enjoyed having a great education, the most important thing I took away from my experience at La Roche was the spirit of giving to those who need the most.

What was it like to be an international student in Pittsburgh and at La Roche?

La Roche is a special place for me. It was a mosaic community with students from more than 35 countries at the time of my study, and I gained more knowledge and understanding. Making a friend from a different part of the world, understanding diverse cultures and especially sharing love with others was something I never received from other institutions. La Roche University helped me broaden my perspective about the world as well as shape my professional life.