Sparking Possibility: AMA CEO Bennie F. Johnson Visits Florida Atlantic

During the American Marketing Association (AMA) International Collegiate Conference in early 2025, AMA CEO Bennie F. Johnson spoke passionately about the power of connection between academia, industry and community. When FAU AMA advisors asked whether he’d consider a first-time campus visit to Florida Atlantic University, Johnson smiled and answered with one word that set everything in motion — “Yes.”

On Nov. 5, 2025, Johnson joined us at Florida Atlantic University, marking the first AMA leadership campus visit in FAU AMA’s chapter history. The one-day event was filled with conversation, creativity and connection, leaving students and faculty inspired by marketing’s power to bring ideas to life.

Johnson began the day with Dean Daniel Gropper and marketing professor Abhijit Guha for a special episode of What’s Happening @FAUBusiness, one of the college’s official podcasts. The discussion ranged from AI and marketing education to the essential role of human creativity in shaping the profession’s future.

Johnson, who leads the world’s largest community-based marketing association, described AMA as “a professional community that is focused on the practice, the future, the growth and the dynamic nature of marketing.” He emphasized that marketing’s future depends on an expansive learning mindset and a willingness to experiment, evolve and stay curious in a world where technology moves faster than ever.

Following the podcast and luncheon, College of Business student ambassadors led Johnson on a guided campus tour. The group showcased Florida Atlantic’s tropical grounds and highlighted key areas, including the renovated Career Services Center and the Executive Education facilities.

“Meeting Bennie F. Johnson and giving him a tour of FAU was an inspiring experience,” said Johanny Leiva, a senior business management major with a concentration in leadership. “We discussed the intersection of design thinking, marketing and student life, and it was motivating to connect over our shared path from architecture to business. His insights on creativity and leadership left a lasting impression.”

The marketing department also hosted a meet-and-greet with faculty and marketing experts, where Johnson exchanged insights with professors and South Florida AMA Professional Chapter members about the future of marketing in the age of AI.

At FAU AMA’s meeting, AMA advisor and marketing instructor Eileen Acello moderated a special CEO Spotlight event, drawing a packed room of students eager to hear from the AMA leader. Johnson reflected on his career path, the value of creativity and collaboration, and the importance of using marketing as a force for connection and change.

Students eagerly asked questions, snapped photos, and left the room buzzing with new motivation. Many noted Johnson’s authenticity and optimism, which gave them an opportunity to see marketing through a broader lens.

“I am so grateful for Bennie’s time with us at FAU; his words truly resonated with me, and I will carry his insights with me throughout my professional journey,” said Fernanda Souza, a senior marketing major with an international minor.

The day ended with dinner hosted by Florida Atlantic’s Collegiate AMA chapter, where the CEO, students, Acello and AMA co-advisor and marketing instructor Denise Gravatt shared stories, laughter and a few slices of pizza at How Ya Doughin’, a local alumni-owned restaurant and one of the chapter’s platinum sponsors.

Johnson’s visit reflects the College of Business’ commitment to engaging students in current industry conversations and bringing thought leaders to campus — whether through inviting marketing experts to speak at AMA meetings, partnering with local companies for experiential learning or integrating current case studies into the curriculum.

-FAU-