Creator Connect: Bridging Brands and Communities hosted by Fordham University

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Join the ANA Educational Foundation (AEF) and Fordham University’s Center for Positive Marketing for an in-person conference where we will explore the intersection of creator communities and marketing. The world of marketing is continually progressing, and at the heart of this transformation lie creator communities—vibrant ecosystems where individuals come together to build, share, and amplify stories, brands, and movements. As businesses and organizations recognize the immense value of engaging with these communities, the need for thoughtful and compelling discussions grows. Attendees will hear case studies and insights on how to navigate this evolving landscape to better shape the future of their brand and creative partnerships.

Agenda

TIME	EVENT DETAILS	LOCATION
Thursday, March 5, 2026
8:30am - 9:00am	SIGN-IN AND BREAKFAST
9:00am - 9:10am	OPENING REMARKS Marcia Soling Senior Vice President ANA Educational Foundation Prof. Dawn Lerman Executive Director of the Center for Positive Marketing Fordham University
9:10am - 9:55am	FROM NOISE TO NOTICED: CRACKING THE CULTURAL CODE TO DRIVE IMPACT VIA BRAND LOVE AND AUTHENTIC CONNECTIONS WITH THE AUDIENCE How Boehringer found a blueprint to tap into the cultural zeitgeist and cut through advertising clutter to connect with desired audiences by understanding the connection between cultural tentpole moments, powerful media strategy, outstanding creative, and partnership with creators. Katherine Freeley Head of Media Center of Excellence Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals
9:55am - 10:40am	BUILDING INFLUENCER CULTURE IN SPORTS New York City FC is a young sports team with only 10 years of history. Yet over the last 2 years, the community of influencers surrounding the club has grown exponentially - all without breaking the bank. This session explores how an influencer program can function as a community ecosystem and culture hub, resulting in authentic brand advocacy and sustainable impact. Lauren Scrima VP Marketing New York City Football Club Crystal Isley Director of Fan Experience, Events, and Culture New York City Football Club View Presentation
10:40am - 11:10am	NETWORKING COFFEE BREAK
11:10am - 11:55am	FUEL GROWTH WITH GEN Z & MILLENNIAL HISPANICS U.S. Hispanics are 25% more likely to trust creators than their general market peers, making creator-led storytelling a powerful growth lever for brands. This session explores how TelevisaUnivision uses authentic, in-culture branded content across major cultural moments, like Beast Cup (In partnership with Mr. Beast), Soccer - LigaMX, and the Latin GRAMMYs, to connect with Gen Z and millennial Hispanic audiences. Attendees will learn how creator-driven strategies build trust, drive engagement, and unlock meaningful brand growth with one of the fastest-growing and most influential consumer segments in the U.S. Luis de la Parra SVP Marketing & Content Strategy TelevisaUnivision James Heath VP Creator Marketing TelevisaUnivision View Event Recap and Related Materials
11:55am - 12:40pm	HOW FAST FAME LEADS TO LONG LASTING SUCCESS In a market dominated by Apple, Lenovo Yoga tapped digital and AI art to shift brand perception, fuel a creator-driven movement, and drive a 32% global sales lift. Discover how co-creation, subversive culture and highly original viewpoints redefined what it means to be a creativity-first tech brand. Archit Mardia Global Brand and Product Strategy Lead, Premium Growth Lenovo View Event Recap and Related Materials
12:40pm - 1:40pm	LUNCH
1:40pm - 2:25pm	WINNING ATTENTION & INFLUENCE WITH CREATIVE IDEAS Media investment is shifting to social media and influencers – and with it – it’s becoming saturated with similar messages and brands are losing distinctiveness. Investment won’t be enough, and brands will need to breakthrough. Sounds tough. Eric Flinn VP, Executive Creative Director Danone
2:25pm - 3:00pm	BANKING ON INFLUENCE Influencers help personify a brand and its products in unique and authentic ways, unlocking community and credibility. From travel and dining benefits to concerts and other experiential events, Citi’s influencer program has grown to be a critical channel within the bank’s marketing mix. Learn about Citi’s approach and how its influencer content is driving meaningful results for the business. Rachel Luftig Vice President Influencer Marketing & Cards Advertising Citi
3:00pm - 3:10pm	CLOSING REMARKS

Cancellation Policy and Notes

No refunds will be granted for any cancellations or for 'no shows.' Unused registrations/applications have no monetary value and cannot be credited to future years or events. ANA will not issue refunds or credits due to failure to redeem a discount coupon during the registration process. You may transfer your registration to a colleague at no additional cost.