Becky McWilliam
Becky McWilliam is a creative professional with more than 20 years of experience in the association management industry, combining graphic and website design expertise with a deep understanding of how organizations actually operate. Her work lives at the intersection of creativity and practicality—helping clients communicate clearly, look professional, and function efficiently.
After unexpectedly leaving a long-term role she had built her career around, Becky found herself at a crossroads with no clear plan for what came next. What followed instead was something organic: former clients and colleagues began reaching out, asking for help with design, websites, publications, and operational support. In response, she founded PurpleLab Creative LLC in April of 2024, turning years of experience into a focused practice built on trust, versatility, and results.
Through PurpleLab Creative, Becky partners with organizations across industries to bring ideas to life through thoughtful visual design. Her work spans print and digital formats—including marketing collateral, signage, programs, and fully customized websites that balance visual appeal with usability. She also brings extensive editorial experience, having served as Editor for multiple full-color magazines and newsletters in both print and online formats, overseeing content development, layout, production, and distribution.
Complementing her creative work is a strong foundation in administrative and association management services. Becky supports membership and database management, event coordination, board operations, and day-to-day organizational needs. This combination of design insight and operational know-how allows her to serve as more than a vendor—she acts as a strategic partner who understands both the big picture and the details that keep organizations running smoothly.
• Cuyahoga Community College
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to maintaining a mindset of consistently going above and beyond. I believe in taking ownership of my work, delivering more than what’s expected, and continuously looking for ways to add value. This approach has helped me build trust, drive results, and create lasting professional relationships.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to not be afraid to just try. Taking initiative, even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed, has helped me learn faster, grow more confident, and open doors I might have otherwise missed.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be open to unexpected turns in your career. Some of the most meaningful opportunities come from moments that feel uncertain at the time. Build relationships, do good work, and don’t underestimate the value of being reliable and adaptable—those qualities are remembered long after a single project ends.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and at the same time one of the greatest opportunities—in my field right now is navigating the constantly evolving ways organizations communicate and connect with their audiences. With digital tools and design expectations changing so rapidly, there’s a need to stay current not just with trends, but with technologies and platforms that improve user experience and strengthen brand clarity.
Another challenge lies in balancing creativity with strategic organizational needs. It’s one thing to make something visually appealing; it’s another to make that design support measurable goals, streamline operations, and strengthen stakeholder engagement. For someone with a dual background in creative design and administrative support, that balance is an opportunity: the more designers understand how organizations work behind the scenes—how membership data is managed, how events are coordinated, how boards communicate—the more invaluable they become.
At the same time, the field is ripe with opportunities for professionals who can bridge gaps. Organizations increasingly want partners who can think beyond a single deliverable—to help with content strategy, brand stewardship, and systems that are both beautiful and functional.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty and transparency. I believe being open, clear, and trustworthy builds strong relationships, fosters accountability, and creates a foundation for long-term success.