Education

M.B.A., Northeastern University (MA)
Marketing A.I. Certificate, Cornell University
Teaching with AI Certificate, Auburn University (Biggio Center)
B.A., Advertising, University of Alabama

Background

Kristin Walker is a professional track instructor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of South Carolina, where she teaches brand strategy, consumer insights and integrated campaigns. Her teaching emphasizes generative AI integration through a human + machine teaming approach that keeps human judgment, creativity, and strategy at the center.

Walker advises the USC Student Advertising Club and Student Advertising Team, leads the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity Study Abroad Program and serves as a faculty senator. She brings more than 20 years of advertising industry experience, including roles at McCann Worldgroup and Cirlot Agency.

Teaching

Walker is dedicated to developing students into world-class professionals, equipping them with innovative tools, practical case studies and immersive real-world experiences. Her teaching emphasizes a hands-on approach, structuring classroom settings to mimic real-world agency teams and in-house marketing environments that focus on problem-solving and creative strategies to address real-world client challenges. Walker prioritizes driving consumer insights, mastering integrated marketing communications strategies and cultivating a deep understanding of client service. She seeks to inspire passion for the industry, preparing students to make an immediate impact from their very first day on the job.

Research Interests

sports media, generative AI, and generative engine optimization (GEO) strategies for building/expanding sports fandom

Teaching

Walker is dedicated to developing students into world-class professionals, equipping them with innovative tools, practical case studies and immersive real-world experiences. Her teaching emphasizes a hands-on approach, structuring classroom settings to mimic real-world agency teams and in-house marketing environments that focus on problem-solving and creative strategies to address real-world client challenges. Walker prioritizes driving consumer insights, mastering integrated marketing communications strategies and cultivating a deep understanding of client service. She seeks to inspire passion for the industry, preparing students to make an immediate impact from their very first day on the job.

Awards

Garnet Media Group Best of Carolina Award: Best Professor, School of Journalism and Mass Communications, 2025-2026 (Awarded by the Students)