Double Agent: Building Brand & Influence in the Age of AI

Presented by Columbia University's M.S. in Strategic Communication program, this panel brings together leaders from the creator, brand, platform, and technology ecosystem to explore how influence is changing and what that means for the future of communication and marketing. They'll examine how content creators are building businesses and communities, how brands are rethinking creator partnerships, how major platforms are shaping discovery and engagement, and how AI is becoming a more active participant on both sides of the marketplace.

Content creators have evolved from social media personalities into media businesses, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and powerful brand partners. At the same time, the platforms that connect creators, brands, and audiences are changing rapidly as algorithms, AI-powered discovery, virtual creators, and AI agents increasingly shape what people see, trust, buy, and share.

The panel will also explore questions around authenticity, trust, creativity, ownership, audience discovery, and the evolving relationship among creators, brands, platforms, and consumers.


MODERATOR

Kevin Visconti, Ph.D., Interim Program Director and Sr. Lecturer in Discipline, M.S. in Strategic Communication


PANELISTS

Natasha Desai, VP of Product, Kargo

Dante Donati, Assistant Professor of Business, Columbia Business School

Amy Lanzi, CEO, Digitas North America

Jessica Morrobel, Digital Media Strategist & Creator Educator

Shadi Nayyer, Head of Creator Management, LinkedIn

To obtain additional information about program offerings at Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies, please inquire [[at]] sps [[dot]] columbia [[dot]] edu.

Please visit Columbia University’s Hub for Emergency Preparedness to stay up to date on the latest campus health and safety policies.

If you require closed captioning, sign-language interpretation, or other accommodations, please contact disability [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu, at least 10 days in advance. Services requested less than 10 days in advance cannot be guaranteed.

This event is open to individuals irrespective of identity and sex.