<p><span class="p-body">Scott Stanchak brings years of multi-industry expertise directly into his MS in Integrated Marketing classes at NYU SPS. As Vice President overseeing digital products at the NBA, Stanchak guides the digital strategies behind multiple leagues and initiatives, experiences that directly shape his approach to teaching marketing courses.</span></p>
Positioning Students as Leaders
<p><span class="p-body">"Having real-world experience in my teaching areas is critical to creating an engaging classroom experience," Stanchak explains. "Overseeing digital products and marketing across major brands has given me a firsthand understanding of how these industries operate." His objective is clear: to prepare students not only for today's market realities but also for tomorrow's rapidly evolving landscape. </span></p>
I aim to help students grasp not only how things work today, but also how emerging trends and technologies could shape the future.”
<p><span class="p-body">Stanchak regularly infuses his classroom with examples from the sports industry—ranging from AI-driven consumer experiences to NBA All-Star voting and fantasy gaming—but he also purposefully broadens the perspective. "I make a point to include case studies from other industries," he notes, emphasizing the value of transferable insights. "Core principles like building connections, personalization, and conversion remain consistent across sectors."</span></p>
Leveraging Tech for Marketing Success
<p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;" id="docs-internal-guid-c779a4a2-7fff-2572-27b2-eddac3c5c988"><span class="p-body"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A major focus of Stanchak’s teaching is helping students navigate the rapidly changing digital landscape. He highlights trends like AI, data personalization, immersive experiences, and shifting content consumption habits. "Every industry is evolving rapidly, so it’s critical to understand how to leverage—or at least experiment with—emerging trends and technologies," Stanchak says. His courses elevate the practical application of these trends, pushing students to think strategically about future possibilities.</span></span></p>
How to Break Free from the Status Quo
<p><span class="p-body">Prior to rejoining the NBA, Stanchak played a pivotal role in The New York Times' mobile subscription expansion, an experience that deeply influenced his approach to digital marketing. "Working on the shift from print to digital and prioritizing subscription revenue over advertising taught me a lot about the direct-to-consumer space," he explains. This firsthand exposure to the complexities of customer engagement now forms the cornerstone of his teaching philosophy, providing students with an intricate understanding of the customer journey.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Innovation and creative thinking are central to Stanchak’s career and his classroom. "Marketing isn’t just about following the status quo," he emphasizes. "Real impact comes from thinking differently and creating experiences that engage and delight consumers." He encourages students to embrace experimentation and even failure as essential elements of marketing creativity.</span></p>
Genuine Connection at the Heart of Everything
<p><span class="p-body">Reflecting on his Emmy-winning experience during the NBA’s unprecedented "bubble" season, Stanchak stresses adaptability and audience connection. "Sometimes speed and relevance matter more than perfection," he notes. "That experience taught me the value of adapting to circumstances and focusing on what matters most to the audience."</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">An accomplished speaker at conferences such as CES and SXSW, Stanchak draws on his background as a journalist to connect deeply with his students. "I love telling stories—they’re what allow me to connect with students," he says. "My goal isn’t just to help students become strong marketers but also to develop into well-rounded professionals." This commitment is reflected in his incorporation of leadership and career development into the curriculum.</span></p>
The Benefit of Multi-Industry Experience
<p><span class="p-body">After dipping his toes into multiple sectors, Stanchak makes sure his students leave his courses with a grasp on the nuances of marketing across industries. He humorously recounts, "I’ve sold rental cars and newspapers—so I’m prepared to sell just about anything!" He aims to emphasize the universality of marketing principles, preparing students to succeed in diverse environments.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">For students aspiring to enter the competitive fields of digital marketing, sports, or media, Stanchak’s advice is direct and practical: "You need to create your own opportunities in the areas you want to work in." He credits his success to proactive learning and initiative, recalling his own transition to mobile marketing as an example.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Ultimately, Stanchak hopes students leave his course as informed professionals, capable of recognizing opportunities and making strategic decisions. "Not every student will end up in a digital marketing or e-commerce role—but they all engage with these experiences every day," he explains. "If they leave my class with a deeper understanding of digital strategies, they'll be better equipped for any career path they choose."</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Learn from industry titans like Scott Stanchak when you pursue an MS in Integrated Marketing at NYU SPS.</span></p>