Hi! I’m Valerie, a performance footwear designer, people manager, and design leader at HOKA, where I’ve spent nearly seven years helping shape the future of performance running.

Before entering the footwear industry, I built my creative foundation in graphic design, motion graphics, and illustration. My roots are in traditional arts but discovered product design while at San Jose State, once discovered there was no turning back. The ability to combine my love of sport and design fuels my drive to create thoughtful solutions. I was fortunate enough to compete on scholarship in D1 athletics in XC & Track while attaining my degree.

For the past 12 years, I’ve called the footwear industry home. Along the way, I’ve been inspired by the creative process, global experiences, meaningful travel, and—most importantly—the talented people who make this fast-paced industry so rewarding. I remain energized by the opportunity to create products that connect performance, innovation, and storytelling.

You can view my catalog of works and design direction HERE