AI in Marketing: Mars Leaders Join UIC Business Students for Industry Panel
Marketing students engage with Mars marketing leaders on how AI is reshaping creativity, strategy, and responsible brand stewardship.
AI in Marketing: Mars Leaders Join UIC Business Students for Industry Panel
The UIC Business Department of Marketing recently welcomed leaders from Mars, Inc., our ANA Educational Foundation corporate sponsor, for a dynamic panel discussion on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in marketing.
Hosted by Professor Razi on April 28 as part of her Digital and Social Media Marketing course, the session brought industry insight directly into the classroom. The Mars marketing panel, including Tiana Conley, Cristina Garcia-Cervigon, Chanel Gant, Drew Brinckerhoff, Burcu Sahin, and Jessica Jorsch, engaged students in thoughtful conversations on topics ranging from brand voice in the age of AI to the growing influence of marketing technology (martech).
A central theme of the discussion was AI’s role as a co-creator in the marketing process. Panelists described how AI is helping teams accelerate creative development, generate insights more quickly, and identify emerging trends and consumer preferences with greater agility. These capabilities are transforming how marketers work — enabling faster iteration and more data-informed decision-making.
At the same time, speakers emphasized that human judgment remains essential. While AI can draft content and support ideation, marketers ultimately guide strategy and execution, ensuring that messaging reflects nuance, emotional intelligence, and brand integrity. This balance ensures AI-assisted content remains authentic and aligned with core brand values.
Responsible marketing also emerged as a key focus. As AI continues to shape the industry, Mars leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining trust, transparency, and accountability in how brands engage with consumers.
The conversation reinforced a defining principle at Mars: being human-obsessed and AI-enabled. For students, the session offered a clear takeaway — even as technology advances, effective marketing remains deeply human.
Experiences like this highlight UIC Business’s commitment to connecting students with industry leaders and preparing them to navigate the future of marketing with both technical fluency and strategic insight.
About Mars and the AEF
Mars is a global consumer goods company and corporate sponsor of the ANA Educational Foundation (AEF), with a portfolio that includes brands such as M&M’s, Snickers, Pedigree, and Royal Canin. Operating in more than 80 countries, Mars is known for its commitment to innovation and responsible business practices.
The ANA Educational Foundation (AEF) connects students with industry leaders through career-focused programming and academic partnerships, helping prepare the next generation of marketing leaders.