Lauren O'Connor serves as the Knight-funded Innovator-in-Residence at West Virginia University's Reed College of Media, where she leverages her extensive background in cutting-edge technology and experiential marketing to foster a culture of innovation. With over 14 years of experience leading transformative initiatives, Lauren is recognized...
Lauren O'Connor serves as the Knight-funded Innovator-in-Residence at West Virginia University's Reed College of Media, where she leverages her extensive background in cutting-edge technology and experiential marketing to foster a culture of innovation. With over 14 years of experience leading transformative initiatives, Lauren is recognized for her ability to integrate emerging technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) into comprehensive growth strategies. Her current role involves collaborating with faculty and students to enhance the curriculum by incorporating advanced technology skills, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to navigate the rapidly evolving media landscape.
At the heart of her mission is the development of key projects that not only enrich the educational experience but also prepare students for real-world challenges. By orchestrating workshops and hands-on learning opportunities, Lauren empowers students to harness the potential of VR and AI in their marketing and communication efforts. Her expertise in public relations, social media marketing, and content development allows her to guide cross-functional teams in creating innovative campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences.
As a thought leader in the field, Lauren is committed to fostering collaboration and creativity within the college, encouraging students to think disruptively and embrace new technologies. Her vision for the Innovator-in-Residence program is to cultivate a dynamic learning environment where students can experiment with multi-channel marketing strategies and develop the skills necessary for successful careers in an increasingly digital world. Through her leadership, Lauren O'Connor is not only shaping the future of media education at West Virginia University but also inspiring the next generation of innovators.
