David Hanneken

David Hanneken is a Teaching Professor in the Department of Strategic Communication at Marquette University’s Diederich College of Communication. He holds an M.S. from Marquette University (1986) and has over 30 years of experience in advertising, spanning roles as a copywriter, creative director, and agency owner. His professional work includes high-profile campaigns for brands like Miller Lite, Harley-Davidson, and American Express, earning industry accolades such as Effie Gold Awards, Cannes Lions, and Clio statues. He transitioned to academia as an adjunct, later becoming a full-time faculty member, and was honored with the Diederich College’s Adjunct Teacher of the Year Award in 2011.

His research focuses on media/audience relationships, new media technologies, and the history of advertising. Professional affiliations include board memberships with the ALS Association and United Adworkers Club. Beyond teaching, he emphasizes creativity as a transformative tool, advocating for innovative problem-solving across disciplines.

Key honors include multiple Milwaukee 99 Adworkers Awards (2018–2021), a Cramer Krasselt Agency profile in Communication Arts Magazine (2004), and recognition for his Napoleon Grills campaign (Effie finalist, 2019). His teaching philosophy prioritizes fostering creativity to address real-world challenges, rooted in his belief that 'creativity can save the world.'