Since launching our Media track in 2022, BIC’s mission has been to produce media communications leaders at a pivotal moment in society’s understanding of digital privacy and transparency. As BIC prepares to graduate the first Media track class this May, new media specific courses are being added to give BICsters a deeper preparation for the media buying marketplace. 

The new Media Investments Strategies course gives students the tools and experience with generating fact-based, integrated, and strategic media plans. Co-instructors Cara Lewis and Alex Ufen have tapped their deep industry network to invite a small army of guest speakers into the classroom where they’re enriching lectures and even opening up their agency doors to host classes at their offices at Dentsu, Martin Agency, and The Trade Desk. 

Check out this amazing lineup of guest speakers for this course: Diana Anderson SVP, Group Director, National Audio and Local Digital Activation at Carat USA, Deva Bronson EVP, Global Head of Brand Assurance at dentsu media, Celeste Castle EVP, Head of Research and Measurement at Amplifi USA, Rachel Krupitsky Group Director, Social Media at dentsu, Alison Tucker Associate Director, Audio Investment @ Carat, Martin Porter EVP, Head of OOH at dentsu,  Emily Scopinich VP, Director, OOH Investment at dentsu Media US,  Brittany Rubinsky VP, Digital Investment at Carat, Thomas Maiorano, SVP, Head of Investment at Carat, Jessie Schwartfarb SVP, Group Director, Video Investment at Carat, Stefanie Smith EVP, Head of Social Media at dentsu Media, James Spano EVP, Head of dentsu Sports, Sarah Stringer Executive Vice President, Head of US Media Partnerships at dentsu media, and Joseph Swierczewski Director, Brand Assurance at dentsu Media & Digital at Carat. 

This course is uniquely structured, as Professor Alex Ufen says, "The interactive sessions fostered a dynamic learning environment as well as networking opportunities with guest speakers that could open doors for potential future collaborations within the industry."

Meet the Professors

Alex Ufen is the Director of Trading Strategy at The Trade Desk, a leading global advertising technology company. With a strong background in research, analytics, and brand strategy, Alex is passionate about data sharing and its role in democratizing information, and is committed to giving back to the community through his volunteering experiences

Alex has held key roles in organizations like Goodby Silverstein & Partners and Digitas. His experience also includes working as an Accounting Analyst at Northern Trust Corporation. Alex is a graduate of Syracuse University.

Cara Lewis is an influential figure in the advertising industry and a role model for aspiring professionals.With over a decade of experience, Cara has held several high-profile roles within the advertising industry, including positions at Carat and Amplifi USA. She is currently the Chief Investment Officer at Dentsu International. 

Cara has been recognized for her exceptional leadership skills and industry accomplishments, receiving accolades such as the Cynopsis Top Women in Media award and the Campaign US Inspiring Women award. Additionally, she has devoted her time to charitable causes, volunteering with organizations such as The Valerie Fund and the Media Ladies Cancer Club.