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When Sukesha Ray ’16 started her studies at Allegheny College, she originally planned on pursuing a medical career. She now reaches millions as she illustrates for DC Comics and is a signed pop artist with Orchard (under Sony Music Entertainment). 

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and a minor in art, Ray was accepted into two medical schools but ultimately turned them down to pursue artistic endeavors. 

Sukesha Ray ’16

“The professors at Allegheny were nothing but supportive in each and every potential career path I had wanted to pursue at the time,” says Ray. “Professor Byron Rich and Prince in the Department of Art, definitely further solidified my love for art. Professor Byron Rich gave me some advice, and that advice was to challenge and let go when creating, and since then, I’ve always held on to that. Even in the inorganic lab, I loved the thrill of creating something new, and the professors and departments at Allegheny really helped me see that.” 

After moving to Florida, Ray started learning about the entertainment business by attending national pop culture conventions or music events in Miami to immerse herself in the industry and create connections.

Celebrities began to contact Ray about her exceptional art, resulting in collaborations with brands and opportunities to paint murals. Her work has been shown twice as a solo artist at Art Basel, an international art fair, and has been published in: 

  • Counterpoint Comics
  • DC Comics 
  • Mt. Olympus Comics
  • Totally Rad Comics
  • Unknown Comics

Meanwhile, a producer in Miami discovered her music, and in two years, she signed three deals with Warner Music. 

She says Allegheny College gave her the support and boldness to pursue any calling. 

“I learned to collaborate with my amazing peers, and the people around me at Allegheny pushed me to become a better version of myself,” reflects Ray. “When I left, I became confident that I could chase my dreams, and the community at Allegheny gave me that courage.”