Celebrating 10 Years of MAC SMAC!

written by: Kylie Gates

On Friday, March 6, the University of New Hampshire will host the 10th anniversary of its premier marketing event: The Summit for Marketing and Advertising Careers (MAC SMAC). Held in the Paul College Great Hall, this milestone is bringing together students, faculty, and some of the biggest names in marketing and advertising for a full day of insight, inspiration, and connection.

What Is MAC SMAC?

MAC SMAC is an annual marketing and advertising conference hosted by the University of New Hampshire at Paul College. Organized by the UNH Marketing & Advertising Club, the event brings together students, faculty, and industry professionals for a day of career-focused programming, including a keynote speaker, panel discussions, a career fair, and networking opportunities. Designed to bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world, MAC SMAC connects students directly with top brands and marketing leaders.

Led by the student-run UNH Marketing & Advertising Club, the event continues its tradition of excellence to celebrate its 10 Year anniversary this year.

This Year’s Theme: The Human Connection

As artificial intelligence accelerates across the marketing industry, MAC SMAC 2026 asks an essential question: How do we stay human in an increasingly automated world?

This year’s keynote speaker, Bob Gates, Creative Director at CVS Health, will explore how creatives remain grounded in emotional truth and human insight, even as tools and expectations rapidly evolve. If you’re wondering how to future-proof your marketing career in the age of AI, this keynote alone is worth attending.

This year highlights industry professionals from brands such as:

Raka

Timberland

Sentient Decision Science

BJ’s Wholesale Club

Cuisinart

What You’ll Experience at this year’s MAC SMAC

11 AM – 1 PM: Career Fair & Real World Business Challenge Showcase

The Real World Business Challenge is a hands-on marketing competition hosted by the UNH Marketing & Advertising Club where students work with real clients to solve real business problems. Over the course of 5 weeks, teams develop strategic marketing solutions, such as branding plans, campaign concepts, research insights, or growth strategies. These students will present their final presentation at MAC SMAC to their clients and a panel of judges. This amazing opportunity gives students practical experience, portfolio-worthy work, and the ability to showcase their ideas in front of industry professionals.

1 PM – 2 PM: Keynote Speaker

Bob Gates (CVS Health) dives into creativity, AI, and the future of human-centered marketing.

2 PM – 3 PM: Panel 1 — The Real Career Playbook

Industry professionals share honest advice about breaking in, growing your career, and navigating the real world of marketing.

3 PM – 4 PM: Panel 2 — Marketing at the Turning Point

Experts discuss where the industry is headed and how you can position yourself for success.

4 PM – 6 PM: 10th Anniversary Networking Reception

The winner of the Real World Business Challenge is announced. This is also time for students to build meaningful connections with professionals, alumni, faculty, and peers in a relaxed setting designed for conversation.

Why You Should Attend

✔ Expand your professional network
✔ Gain real-world insight from top brands
✔ Explore internships and career paths
✔ Learn how marketing is evolving in the AI era
✔ Get inspired by creative leaders shaping the future
✔ It’s completely FREE

Whether you’re a first-year student exploring options or a senior preparing to enter the workforce, MAC SMAC gives you direct access to the people and ideas shaping today’s marketing landscape.

How to Register

MAC SMAC is free and open to all, but registration is required to secure your spot.