We have the very best job in the world. Every day, we work with amazing people dedicated to teaching, healing, and changing the world. Who better to empower?
Lauren Gueli
BRAND STRATEGIST
With over 14 years of experience working in and with schools, Lauren always provides the best brand strategy for her clients, helping them define their unique place in customers' minds and understand how their brand can support their mission and vision. From an independent all-girls school reimagining education in New York City to a New Orleans Pre-K through grade 12 school dedicated to inspiring tomorrow's leaders, Lauren seeks to make her clients the very best at what they do, period. For her clients and her colleagues, it is a distinction that makes all the difference.
JOSEPH BENSON
BRAND Strategist
Joseph Benson, a seasoned brand strategist with over three decades of experience shaping brand strategies for educational institutions nationally and globally, has authored Fifty-Seven Brand Haikus. The concise prose distills the complexities of branding principles, offering readers a unique perspective on the role of brands in our lives and businesses.
In addition to his extensive brand experience, Joseph's diverse talents extend to filmmaking, where his works have graced over a dozen festivals and been licensed to HBO. He was nominated for an Academy Award in 1982.
kira sophia
Operations Guide
As Operations Guide and Project Ally, Kira ensures that each project at Ovus & Ater progresses with clarity, structure, and purpose. She serves a vital role for team coordination: aligning timelines, refining processes, and ensuring no detail is overlooked. With a thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach, Kira shepherds projects from kickoff to completion. Drawing on a background in both creative and operational roles, she brings a deep appreciation for systems that support focus and flow. Her steady presence and commitment to clarity empower our teams to deliver work that keeps clients informed, supported, and confident at every stage of the process.
dustin neece
Creative Director
Dustin brings over two decades of experience as a professional oil painter, brand designer, and creator of digital solutions. His work is grounded in both craft and clarity—translating abstract ideas into visual representations that align deeply with each organization’s identity and goals.
He is passionate about clear, intuitive, and thoughtfully crafted design—bringing clarity and intention to every visual decision. With a refined eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, Dustin approaches each project as both storyteller and creative strategist. His intentional design process helps clients articulate who they are with precision, purpose, and impact ensuring the final product not only looks beautiful but also works brilliantly.
Remembering Jack.
JACK FOLEY
In August of 2022, the Brand community lost a champion and nationwide leader. We at Ovus & Ater lost a colleague and friend whose passion, integrity, and thirst for knowledge are reflected in the beating heart of the company he founded. Jack Foley exemplified transformation and growth through rebranding and targeted marketing for schools across the United States. Ovus & Ater continues to thrive today as a result of the fierce intensity, forward thinking, and seriousness Jack brought to rebranding and education. We owe our culture of collaboration, precision, and humor to Jack. Forever in our hearts, Jack will always be our “quiet ally.”
