Aba Blankson joins UT’s prestigious Executive in Residence Program
Executive in residence is a program that invites select professionals to visit UT’s Forty Acres for an academic capsule program extended to executives who have demonstrated excellence within their own respective career fields.
During their time at UT, executives will be exposed to various classes across multiple departments and schools, where they will be able to engage in academic discussions directly with students who are interested in becoming future leaders and executives of tomorrow. In addition, they will have the unique opportunity to present lectures on important topics to students and faculty. These presentations will touch on experiences and insights they’ve acquired throughout their careers in dealing with the current business landscape, critical issues, and effective practices, as well as emerging trends. While the program began as a pilot just a couple years ago, it has proven to be an invaluable and stimulating experience that hopes to bridge the gap between the realm of academia and the professional sector.
Aba Blankson, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the NAACP, is set to become the University of Texas’ first public relations executive in residence. She brings twenty years worth of dynamic work experience in the nonprofit sector to the university. Her time here will involve educating students and faculty towards developing a greater understanding of the barriers that affect minority groups, and how to navigate the social causes and issues among policy-centered organizations.
As a seasoned veteran director in marketing and communications, Blankson will apply her skills and experience towards conducting case studies focused on advancing rights for minority groups. In addition to her research, she will speak at several events giving lectures on leadership, cultural issues, and evolving industry standards, which will be open to students and faculty from all programs and departments.
Blankson arrives in Austin on Monday, September 30th, and will stay through Wednesday, October 2nd. For students or faculty interested in attending one of her speaking events, the following are open to visitors:
Tuesday, October 1st:
Lee Ann Kahlor’s Advertising Research Class
Located: Belo Center for New Media - Room: 2.106 (Second floor)
Time: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Wednesday, October 2nd:
Gary Wilcox’s Advertising/Integrated Brand Communication Class
Located: Belo Center for New Media - Room: 2.106 (Second floor)
Time: 11:00 AM-12:15 PM
