Carla Frank doesn't just design magazines—she creates success stories. As the founding design director of O, The Oprah Magazine—the most successful magazine launch in publishing history—Carla understands what publishers and editors need to connect with audiences in increasingly competitive markets.

Known for her rare combination of creative vision and business acumen, Carla partners with publishing teams using an established process to transform challenges into opportunities, whether launching new titles or reinvigorating established brands.

Over her 25+ award-winning years, Carla has collaborated with publishing teams across every category, from global media companies to independent, niche publications. She's helped editorial teams pivot through industry disruption, launch successful digital extensions, and build distinctive brand identities that stand out in a crowded content landscape.

Beyond her studio work, Carla actively shapes the future of publishing as an adjunct professor, mentor, and thought leader who is regularly sought by universities and industry conferences.

Now you understand why has been called “The Magazine Whisperer”.

Mark Kelly partners with Carla Frank in higher education assignments under the division of Kelly & Frank here at CFC+ Co. He is a strategist, editor, writer and previously worked as a communications / marketing executive, as well as, editor for four public and private universities and a national education association. Kelly & Frank have reimagined editorial properties for Furman University, Loyola University of Maryland and the In Trust Center.

Sarah Viñas, an associate at CFC+ Co., is an award-winning New York-based graphic designer with over 20 years of experience in the editorial magazine world. She has held senior positions at a variety of national magazines, where she has been recognized for her work by the American Society of Magazine Editors and The Society of Publication Designers. 

Aspen Gengenbacher graduated in 2023 with a degree in journalism from the University of Missouri, where she became the first student from her school to win the Society of Publication Designers Student Competition, after which she traded in her reporter’s notebook for a sketchbook.
Aspen is passionate about editorial and is aiming to relocate to New York in the near future to pursue her career at a magazine.