Carla Tedeschi's client-based design work has been recognized both internationally and nationally in a multitude of competitive venues. She is actively engaged in the research and practice of socially focused design and responsible activism. She lectures nationally on the topic and was one of four key Texas Tech University faculty members named to the 2008 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll by the Corporation for National and Community Service. Her research explores language and semiotics.  Signs, symbols, and words often trap segments of society in motionless roles and Tedeschi's research offers ways to disrupt traditional dialogue to examine new meaning. Her explorations test the dual nature of word and image as both communicative sign and visual form questioning the function and traditions of verbal and visual language.