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University of Arizona
“You have done remarkable things and I think
the students, faculty and marketing community
will be motivated by your story.”
That's what Robert Lusch, Department Head of the Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona, told Michael Shanks in asking him to present the Shanks DMG story at the school's annual “Thinking Forward Marketing Conference.”
The Eller Marketing Program has been ranked in the top 5% of all programs nationally, and Michael's presentation was titled
“Work and Live Courageously.”
It was so well received that Michael has gone on to partner with U of A Assistant Professor Narayan Janakiraman in developing a workshop that is now a part of a course in the Eller Marketing Program.
Here's how some students have been inspired by Michael's story:
“He talked about how you have to create opportunities for yourself by taking risks—not waiting for things to be handed to you.
It's very pertinent advice - it is true for every profession and every different part of life, and not just marketing and design.
Having education and experience only gets you so far...it's having the courage to take
risks that pushes you to the next level….
Mike was able to back up his advice with his experiences.”
– Ryan Keefer
“He showed us that everything is possible:
do not be afraid of taking risks! Mike told us not be afraid of being unique or original. It can be useful for our career.”
– Celine Vetter
“Mike Shanks has innate talent, but I saw more than just a demonstration of an obvious gift. His studio was full things used for developing creativity, getting noticed, thinking out of the box, and outrageous design.
Mike has made a very conscious effort to cultivate his skills. Mike has enormous ability, drive and energy, and has worked both hard and smart to achieve his ambitions.
“The way Mike thinks is not a natural way of thinking; you don't see it too often in the real world. Most people play it safe, try not to stand out, fear looking the fool, or are just
intellectually lazy.
You have to make a conscious effort to think out of the box. It was a day well spent.”
– Dean Langadas
Experience Michael's message of working and living courageously.