How it all started in 1996…
Mike Williams (1972-2016)
PMC’s Founder
Mike Williams was originally living in Colorado when he heard about Cal State Fullerton’s animation program. He decided to attend CSUF to pursue animation. It was until after his graduation and the beginning of his grad school career that the idea of an animation club came into his mind. Despite there already being gatherings of animation students, Mike decided to create it into a club with the help of Professor Dana Lamb.
Dana Lamb
Co-founder and Professor Emeritus
Dana Lamb became the professor to join and work alongside Mike Williams to establish the Pencil Mileage Club. In the earlier years, he recruited members by talking to students in his animation classes who could potentially be interested in becoming more involved in the animation industry.
Where does PMC’s name
come from?
The term “pencil mileage” comes from industry professionals. They would often tell students that they need to “get in their pencil mileage,” meaning they needed to expand their drawing skills and time spent doing it.
PMC’s Mascots
This tradition began back in 2011, 15 years after the club’s founding. James Lien designed the first mascot, Gingerale, after drawing a redhead bellhop character on an event poster. Along with Eric Omega, thus began a wonderful, desert-inspired tradition that continues to this day.
Ginger Ale (2010-2012)
Peppermint Chai (2013-2015)
Cinnabonnie (2015-2016)
Ice Cream Sammie (2016-2017)
Pop Roxy (2017-2018)
Pixie & Stix (2018-2019)
Matcha Mai (2019-2020)
Princess Dip & Mel (2020-2021)
Fizzy & Pop (2021-2022)
Azuki & Dango-Bot (2022-2023)
Berry & Grizz Cracker (2023-2024)
Advice from PMC Alumni
“I would say keep drawing ALWAYS!! Work and try hard, you will get better! Trust the process, have fun, help those around you, and BE KIND! :D.”
— Raha Dabiri (Event Coordinator)
“School's programs and faculty provide a great deal of resources, it's up to you to take advantage of those and be proactive in using them. Also, the expectation of the curriculum is not a 'be-all' for all you need to know to be ready as a professional. As an artist, the learning doesn't ever stop!”
— James Lien (Advertiser and Creator of the first PMC Mascot)
It's OK to give yourself time and space to decide on a career path. I spent 3 years in community college and another 3 years at CSUF. Although it was really hard to see my peers graduate with their bachelor's in 4 or even 3 years, I am so grateful for that extra time that I gave to myself to grow and learn. It allowed me to explore my options and understand what kind of work I enjoyed doing. So if you are interested in a career as an artist, but you haven't fully committed to that path, CSUF is an excellent choice. It is much more affordable and forgiving than art schools and can get you to the same place if you put in the time and work.
— Megan LeMausier (Historian and Treasurer)
“While you’re in school, explore different facets of the industry to see what calls to you and concentrate on that. Establish a good work ethic and work patterns. Learn from your peers and get inspired by them (as well as other professionals). Recognize your hard work, but seek to grow and help others grow as well. Supplemental learning is key; you can learn a lot in school, but it’s important to refine those skills outside of the classroom. Your mental and physical health is important; remember to stretch and take breaks!”
— Tara Johnson (Advertiser)
“Do your absolute best and learn from anywhere and anyone you can- not just class assignments, but also seek knowledge in your peers, tutorials on social media, youtube, books... really study your favorite TV shows, video games, films, the classics and why you enjoy them. Execute what you learn and let it show in your work. Figure draw and plein air paint whenever possible. Do your best, be genuine, be kind. Take care of yourself. I believe in you!”
—Eric Omega (Creator of PMC’s Current Logo)