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Parent Department University of Florida

IA Alumni—Where are They Now? Featuring Brooke Garrison

By Morgan Witt

Brooke Garrison, Class of 2019, pursued a major from the College of Journalism and Communications with a minor in Innovation. Her time at the UF Innovation Academy (IA) was marked by hands-on experiences and extracurricular involvement.

Brooke Garrison

Reflecting on her IA experience, Brooke highlighted the practical coursework that resonated with real-world applications. “As someone who identifies as a creative with an entrepreneurial spirit, the coursework kept me excited, engaged and felt like a seamless transition to use in the real world,” she shared. But beyond academics, Brooke found fulfillment in her extracurricular involvement, especially within IA organizations. “The highlight of my time at UF was leading the Innovation Academy Ambassador program for two years and serving as the Executive Director of the Innovation Leadership Program,” she said. These experiences not only honed her leadership skills but also solidified her passion for helping others grow professionally.

Now residing in Tampa Bay, Florida, Brooke works as an Account Executive for TEGNA, a multi-media company. Her role involves developing multi-platform marketing campaigns for businesses and advertising agencies nationwide. “From the lights, camera, action of a TV set, to optimizing client’s advertising dollars based on data, it’s a very dynamic and rewarding career path that I didn’t know existed until I stumbled across the TEGNA booth at the CJC Career Fair in my senior year of college,” she said.

Brooke attributes her career success in part to the skills she acquired during her time at IA. “Being in the Innovation Academy taught me how to build solutions in moments where it seems there are none,” she reflected. This adaptability has proven invaluable, especially in navigating the challenges posed by the ever-evolving industry landscape.

Moreover, Brooke’s IA education equipped her with the resilience and adaptability needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. “Being in the Innovation Academy taught me how to remain adaptable and strive to do excellent work,” she said. Just eight weeks after graduating and transitioning to her career, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, ushering in a period of uncertainty and upheaval. However, Brooke’s commitment to excellence propelled her forward.

“In college, we often identify ourselves by what organizations we are a part of or group we belong to. However, after graduation, there are many places you can place your ‘identity.’ Identifying with your unique set of skills, rather than identifying by a specific job title, makes you a unique and irreplaceable talent that the right company will value, mold and view as an asset.

“When you are fueled by WHY you do what you do, versus WHAT your role is, you can translate your skills into nearly any role and build the career of your dreams,” Brooke said.

Beyond her professional growth, Brooke credited her involvement in IA and student organizations for cultivating her leadership and team-building skills. “It taught me that leadership is rooted in listening and grows with inspired action,” she shared. By coming together with peers from diverse backgrounds, Brooke learned the value of collaboration and the magic that happens when individuals unite for a common goal.

Post-graduation, Brooke’s spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship has continued to thrive. In her client-facing role, she has embraced the opportunity to think outside the box and develop unique advertising concepts. Additionally, she has pursued creative passion projects, including viral social media management and content creation focused on health, wellness and humor.

Looking back on her IA experience, Brooke had one piece of advice for current and prospective students: “DO IT! Take the leap, try everything, make connections, and use your unique Innovation degree as an asset in your post-graduate endeavors. You are what the world is waiting for! Your perspective will be a breath of fresh air!” she said. She also encouraged students to seize opportunities like studying abroad with IA, recognizing the value of diverse experiences firsthand.

Looking ahead, Brooke is excited about the future, filled with opportunities to mentor, lead and inspire others. With a solid foundation from IA and a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship, Brooke is poised to make a lasting impact in her chosen field and beyond.