Samantha Koon

Samantha Koon serves as Director of Communications for Illinois Extension and TEC Lecturer at the University of Illinois. She leads marketing and communications initiatives to enhance Extension's statewide impact while teaching courses in entrepreneurship, innovation, and communications. Her professional background spans 20+ years in non-profit and higher education sectors, emphasizing market analysis, strategic planning, and corporate communications. She concurrently operates The Zybell House and Greenhouse Café, continuing her family’s entrepreneurial legacy.

Education:

• Undergraduate degrees from Purdue University
• MBA from Indiana University

Research & Expertise: Specializes in applying communications strategies to drive organizational growth and community engagement. Focuses on bridging marketing theory with practical applications in social movements, environmental advocacy, and global business practices through courses like 'Technology & Management Seminar' and 'Communication in Environmental Social Movements.'

Advising & Ventures: Manages academic programs like the Hoeft Technology & Management Program while advising students through courses such as LLC (Living Learning Communities) and international business immersion trips. Balances academic roles with ownership of historic lodging and a café at Allerton Park.