Quantcast

Ann Arbor Times

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Eastern Michigan University to hold digital marketing workshop focused on customer engagement

Webp 1evxozn52cm9l9mi51r0aflqi9n0

Dr. James M. Smith President at Eastern Michigan University | Eastern Michigan University

Dr. James M. Smith President at Eastern Michigan University | Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University’s Center for Digital Engagement will host its annual Digital Marketing Workshop on Friday, November 21, at the EMU Student Center in Ypsilanti. The event is themed “Know Your Customer” and aims to help marketing professionals better understand customer behavior in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

The workshop has been held since 2011 and has become a significant marketing event in Michigan. This year’s program features speakers from organizations such as Ford Motor Company, Google, and the Detroit Tigers. Attendees can expect discussions on how understanding customers can drive engagement and business growth.

“In today’s digital age, knowing your customer has taken on a whole new dimension, and that’s what this workshop is here to explore,” said Bud Gibson, director of EMU Center for Digital Engagement. “With panelists ranging from diverse companies, there will truly be something for everybody. We believe this event provides a unique opportunity to learn from and network with local area professionals interested in digital.”

The day begins with a keynote by Derek Janis, chief marketing officer of AcquireUP. Janis will discuss strategies he used at BrightDrop—a GM commercial EV company—to achieve over $1 billion in revenue within two years.

Panel discussions include topics such as performance marketing strategies featuring experts from Pinterest, Google, Ford, and CareerNow Brands; engaging sports fans through storytelling with representatives from major Detroit sports teams; and a concluding lunch panel reviewing key insights from the day.

A networking break is scheduled mid-morning and is sponsored by the Digital Summer Clinic. It offers attendees opportunities to connect with industry professionals including faculty from EMU College of Business and representatives from Google.

Tickets are available at an early bird rate of $35 until November 7. Admission includes breakfast, lunch, and parking. Registration details can be found at the Digital Marketing Workshop Registration page. Additional information about the workshop is available on the Digital Marketing Workshop website.

Founded in 1849, Eastern Michigan University serves more than 12,000 students across undergraduate through doctoral programs in various fields including arts, sciences, business, education, engineering and technology, health and human services (https://www.emich.edu/). The university emphasizes career readiness through hands-on learning experiences and partnerships with industry leaders (https://www.emich.edu/about/facts-pride/index.php).

For more information about Eastern Michigan University or updates on university news visit EMU Today (https://today.emich.edu/).