Education

M.S., Creative Brand Management, Virginia Commonwealth University
Certificate, National Security & Strategic Studies, Hawaii Pacific University
B.A., Political Science, Virginia Commonwealth University
B.A., Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, Virginia Commonwealth University

Background

Russ Gottwald helps illustrate the method behind advertising's madness in his courses, which cover topics such as creative concept development and execution, writing, and the history of advertising in the Super Bowl. His career in advertising has hinged upon answering two fundamental questions: "What do we need to do?" and "What's the best way to do it?" Since entering the industry over a decade ago he has worked in the roles of strategist, copywriter, and creative team lead to answer those questions for clients ranging from multinational tech conglomerates to local non-profits.

Teaching

Gottwald encourages students to learn by a hands-on approach in order to understand not only how, but why things work the way they do. The practical knowledge gained helps students more fully understand theories and contexts by providing first-hand exposure and experience; thorough discussion of the lessons learned helps solidify the lessons learned by themselves and their colleagues. This approach helps students progress more rapidly in the acquisition of skills vital to success in both the advertising industry and other fields.