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Kent State alumnus Mike Jackson, innovator and seasoned marketing communications executive, is joining ������’s School of Media and Journalism as a professional-in-residence this spring. Jackson will be teaching Advertising Strategy Development and Messaging and Communication. He will also serve as faculty adviser for Franklin Advertising, a student organization focused on advertising and strategic communication. 

Jackson earned his undergraduate degree in journalism from ������ and his master’s degree from the University of Southern California. He is the founder of 2050 Marketing, (), a consulting practice that helps clients, ranging from Fortune 500 brands to start-ups, navigate the changing demographics in America as they relate to advertising, brand building and digital strategies. Before beginning 2050 Marketing, Jackson built his career as a C-suite executive with senior leadership roles at Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Coors Brewing and General Motors. 

"As an alum, Mike has served as a mentor to our students and he has had such a positive impact,” Dean of the College of Communication and Information Amy Reynolds, Ph.D., said. "We are so fortunate that he will now share his impressive experiences and his deep expertise with our students in the classroom. He is someone who is immersed in the future trends of the profession, and he is committed to student success." 

“I am very excited to join Dean Amy Reynolds and the team at the College of Communication and Information,” Jackson said. “My experiences as a young student at ������ provided me with a strong foundation that enabled me to achieve personal and professional success. The opportunity to give back and share my insights, passions and experiences is a once-in-a lifetime opportunity. The convergence of new media, technology and information on the business of advertising and communications is very exciting, and I look forward working with the Kent students, faculty and the administration.” 

Read more about Mike Jackson and his work

School of Media and Journalism Director Emily Metzgar, Ph.D., said she is excited about what Jackson will contribute to the faculty and the School. 

“We are so pleased to have Mike joining our faculty this semester,” she said. “His extensive professional experience and insights into the future of strategic communication will serve our students well and will help us shape our thinking about the professional and liberal arts training need as they prepare for careers in this vibrant field.”