Nicholas Fanning, ’11, majored in sociology at Muskingum, but now works in the experiential marketing field. Experiential Marketing, Fanning explained, is a “strategy that directly engages consumers and invites and encourages them to participate in the evolution of a brand or cause.” The goal is to create memorable brand experiences that engage with consumers on a personal and emotional level.
Fanning has worked with many well-known brands, including Jeep, the World Series, NCAA Final Four, MLB All-Start games, Greyhound, the U.S. Tennis and Golf Opens and Jaguar Land Rover.
During his work in the corporate world, Fanning had the opportunity to travel to Cuba three times on philanthropic trips to underprivileged areas.
Fanning recently co-founded Clear Canvas Creative MKTG, a full-service marketing agency that specializes in content creation and visual and experiential marketing. The company unites businesses and brands with their target audiences through digital content engagement, live experiences and traditional marketing techniques.
For Fanning, it was a “self-inflicted setback” during his college career that actually helped him to find and focus on the best career path for him. As a student, he got into some trouble and had to take a semester off. He said he came back “extremely focused.”
Fanning says, “My professors understood my circumstances and situation; even after I got in trouble they believed in me and provided the support system necessary for me to return and excel.”
Fanning says, “For those seniors looking to make the next step, don’t let one moment define you, whether good or bad. Analyze each experience, learn from it and continue grow and move forward.”