The College of New Jersey recently hosted a Digital Marketing and Social Media Alumni Zoom Panel, bringing together students, faculty, and accomplished alumni for an engaging discussion on industry trends and career pathways. The event was a collaborative effort between The School of Arts and Communication and The School of Business, reflecting the increasingly interdisciplinary nature of digital media careers.
The panel featured three distinguished alumni working at the forefront of digital marketing and content strategy. Emily Fuentes (Communication Studies, Class of 2018), now Senior Manager of Content and Production at Billboard, shared insights into storytelling in the entertainment industry and the importance of adaptability in fast-paced media environments. Barbara Llull (Marketing, Class of 1996), Senior Director of Digital, Media, and Marketing Planning at GAF, provided a strategic perspective on integrated marketing campaigns and long-term brand development. Brian Sutera (Marketing, Class of 2016), Senior Manager of Social Media Strategy at Cognizant, discussed the evolving nature of brand identity and audience engagement.
The conversation was guided by student moderators Caroline Dowd (Class of 2026, Communication Studies) and Hope Evanko (Class of 2027, Management & Marketing), who facilitated the dialogue. Questions focused on career entry points, the value of internships, and the evolving nature of artificial intelligence. Panelists emphasized the importance of experience, with mentions of internships, volunteering, and dedicating time to building real-world relations to the industry.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the non-linear nature of career paths. Each panelist reflected on how their experiences at TCNJ, both inside and outside the classroom, helped shape their professional journeys. They encouraged students to remain open to new opportunities, actively build their portfolios, and leverage networking connections, particularly through alumni events such as this panel.
The event concluded with a Q&A session, allowing attendees to engage directly with panelists and seek personalized advice. Students expressed appreciation for the candid insights and practical guidance offered, noting the value of hearing firsthand experiences from alumni working across different sectors of digital marketing.
- Caroline Dowd, 2026