Student Experience: Patrick Lawton

“Being interested in multimedia but knowing nothing about it, at the age of 54 I hesitantly enrolled in Richland's Visual Arts Multimedia program. I was immediately captivated by the endless possibilities of the digital world. It was a catalyst for releasing my up-to-then dormant creative abilities.

I was eager to attend my classes, knowing that every day I would be exposed to new concepts and new techniques. The instructors were supportive, inspiring and challenging. One very important benefit of attending the program was establishing connections within the welcoming Richland Multimedia community. I made many cherished and valuable friends. 

“Within a few semesters, I was creating videos, digital art and websites. Upon completing the program, I worked as a freelance Web designer and taught Web design classes. Later, thanks in part to friends within the Richland Multimedia community and to skills learned while attending the Visual Arts program, I was hired as a system/software trainer at the LeCroy Center. 

“I strongly recommend any of the various Multimedia programs to anybody who is simply curious about the Internet, particularly to anybody who is creative and wants to dive — digitally speaking — into the multimedia world.” 

Patrick Lawton completed Level I and II certificates in Multimedia Technology–Visual Design at Richland. In his current position, he introduces multimedia concepts to Dallas College technical support staff, provides basic and advanced training in eCampus software, conducts multimedia training, creates eCampus tutorial videos and assists students and instructors in navigating and providing technical assistance for the eCampus and eConnect programs.


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Levi Palmer

Levi Palmer

Co-founder and Designer, palmer//harding private label
“The best part of my experience there was the incredibly knowledgeable and encouraging faculty, as well as the amazing location that El Centro provided. My education here has provided me with the necessary foundation of skills and knowledge in the fashion industry, which I use on a daily basis today.”
Fashion
Nolan Brett

Nolan Brett

Mastering Engineer, Crystal Clear Sound
“It’s really invaluable to be able to learn from professionals who are a part of the industry. I also really like that it’s an accredited institution of higher learning, not a fly-by-night group of people trying to make a buck.”
Commercial Music
Lindsay Weatherread

Lindsay Weatherread

Fashion Stylist and Designer L. Weatherread Design
“The program has small classes and is very hands-on. When I left El Centro and talked to people in the industry who had gone to other schools, I found that I had learned way more than most of them. Pattern making and sewing are definitely a big strength at El Centro.”
Fashion
Jerry Dean

Jerry Dean

District Manager, Aramark Higher Education
“The experience at El Centro helped establish my career as an executive chef. Now I work in food service administration, where I have the ability to impact the culinary experience of thousands.”
Culinary and Pastry Arts
PatrickLawton
Patrick Lawton
System/Software Trainer R. Jan LeCroy Center, Dallas College

Multimedia Technology
School of Creative Arts, Entertainment and Design
Updated September 10, 2026