Ƶapp Graphic Design students bring Erie Fire Department’s story to life
Students in the Computer Illustration Techniques course of Ƶapp University’s Graphic Design program are wrapping up a meaningful and creative project: illustrating a coloring book for the Erie Fire Department. This collaboration has been a months-long effort, bringing together artistic skill and community engagement in a project that will soon reach thousands of young students across the region.
To celebrate the coloring book, the class recently welcomed a very special visitor—Horus, the ATF canine who stars in the book itself. Horus, along with his handler Adam Gatti, visited the class to thank the students for their incredible work. Each student received a Fire Department t-shirt as a token of appreciation.
A special highlight of the visit was the presentation of a challenge coin to student Samantha McDonald for her exceptional work in bringing Horus to life through illustration. Her artwork helped capture Horus’s personality and spirit, making him a memorable character for kids to connect with.
“This project not only gave our students real-world experience in design and illustration, but also allowed them to contribute something lasting and positive to our community,” said Arts School Dean Jodi Staniunas Hopper, who led the course.
The coloring book is in its final proofing stage and will soon be distributed to thousands of children across Erie—educating and inspiring them through creative storytelling, fire safety tips, and, of course, Horus’s adventures.
PHOTO: Horus is joined by handler Adam Gatti and Ƶapp student Samantha McDonald.