Students from Ringling College of Art and Design’s Entertainment Design program got an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the magic of Walt Disney World—not as guests, but as future industry professionals. Over the course of their immersive visit, students explored behind-the-scenes of attractions, attended insider presentations, and connected with Disney Imagineers, including Ringling alumni who now help bring the parks to life.
The visit began with a deep dive into Disney’s creative philosophy, led by Walt Disney Imagineering Art Director Katie Gibbs ’12, Illustration, who has spent over a decade designing experiences for Disney parks. Gibbs started her career with Disney as an intern during her senior year at Ringling College. Her presentation walked students through Disney’s storied history and the “Ten Commandments of Imagineering”—core principles that guide every creative decision, from ride design to guest experience.
Luke Jordan ’26, Entertainment Design, was excited to see how passionate the people who work in the industry are about getting students on board and giving them industry experience.
From there, the group was treated to an in-depth look at the making of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, with Creative Director Alex Wright pulling back the curtain on the ride’s visual storytelling, large-scale operational design, and cutting-edge technology. Students also toured Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, a vibrant and interactive educational walkthrough designed to teach guests about the water cycle—without ever feeling like a lesson. That presentation was led by recent Wren Wilson ’23, Entertainment Design, who shared how interdisciplinary collaboration helped bring the attraction to life. There were talks from many other Ringling alumni, including Senior Concept Designer and Animator Todd Bright ’92, Illustration.
Tia Kassim ’26, Entertainment Design, who attended the field trip, shared a highlight of the day.
She said, “We had a really unique experience today when we got to not only ride the ride, but then after we got to sit with the creative director and hear his take on it, exactly as we went through it. It’s just so rare.”
Throughout the experience, students saw firsthand how their studies translate into real-world application—and how collaboration, storytelling, and attention to detail are essential in crafting unforgettable experiences.
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