Tracy Draksler Brown

Tracy Draksler Brown is an Assistant Professor of Strategic Communication at the University of Missouri’s Missouri School of Journalism. She holds a BJ degree from the same institution (2000). With 23 years of professional experience in advertising, she previously held senior leadership roles at agencies like FCB, TPN, Merge, and St. Louis-based HLK, leading campaigns for brands such as Gatorade, American Express, and Smucker’s. Her work has earned Effie and Reggie awards. Brown teaches courses in audience persuasion, strategic communication fundamentals, and AdZou—a capstone course where students create real-world advertising campaigns.

Education:

• BJ in Journalism, University of Missouri (2000)

Research & Teaching Focus: Brown emphasizes real-world application of strategic communication principles, drawing from her industry experience. Her expertise includes cross-media strategy, client engagement, and brand positioning. She advocates for the Missouri Method’s hands-on approach, reflecting her own educational journey.

Awards:

• Effie Award (Milk-Bone, Chilly Cow campaigns)
• Reggie Award (Smucker’s pet snacks portfolio)

Teaching & Mentorship: Brown prioritizes mentorship, inspired by her mentors Don Ranly and Birgit Wassmuth. She seeks to inspire students through collaborative, industry-relevant pedagogy, blending theory with practical experience through courses like AdZou.