Archive Posts
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In the News: Mike Porter on the Future of Shopping Malls
In the NewsMike Porter, professor of marketing at the University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business, joined KCBS Radio to discuss the challenges and reinvention of American shopping malls. Porter explained that while e-commerce has significantly reshaped consumer habits, malls that focus on experience, community integration and mixed-use development are more likely to thrive. From residential…
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In the News: Mike Porter on the Strategic Role of Social Media
In the NewsMike Porter, clinical professor of marketing at the University of St. Thomas, joined the “Homegrown Hustle” podcast to unpack the strategic realities behind social media in modern marketing communications. Porter reframed social platforms as shared spaces within the PESO model, emphasizing that social media should serve as a conduit that drives audiences toward owned assets.… -
In the News: Dave Vang on the Cost of Trump’s Tariffs
In the NewsDave Vang, a finance professor in the Opus College of Business at the University of St. Thomas, spoke with KSTP about new Tax Foundation research estimating that President Trump’s tariffs added roughly $1,000 in costs for the average American household last year, outlining how the policy continues to affect consumer prices, trade negotiations and Minnesota… -
In the News: Erica Diehn and Monica Liu On Leading During Distress
In the NewsErica Diehn, associate professor of management, and Monica Liu, associate professor of American culture and difference at the University of St. Thomas, relayed to The Minnesota Star Tribune advice on leading through unrest. In their Work and Love course, they held space for students to express how they are feeling during the local immigration crackdown… -
In the News: Seth Ketron on AI-Driven Online Shopping Scams
In the NewsSeth Ketron, associate professor of marketing in the Opus College of Business at the University of St. Thomas, was quoted by The Associated Press in an article examining how some online ads use artificial intelligence and fabricated backstories to pose as family-run small businesses. Ketron explained that increasingly realistic AI-generated images and emotional narratives make it easier… -
In the News: Christopher Wong Michaelson on Rethinking the Workweek
In the NewsChristopher Wong Michaelson, professor of business ethics and social responsibility at the University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business, co authored an article for The Conversation examining why the traditional 40 hour workweek may no longer be the best fit for many workers. Michaelson discussed the historical roots of the modern work schedule, growing concerns about… -
In the News: Seth Ketron Weighs In on Buy Now, Pay Later Holiday Spending
In the NewsSeth Ketron, associate professor of marketing at the University of St. Thomas, spoke with WCCO about the growing use of buy now, pay later services as holiday shopping ramps up. Ketron cautioned that while the plans can help consumers manage upfront costs, missed payments and overlapping purchases can quickly lead to financial strain. From the… -
In the News: Seth Ketron on Avoiding Social Media Shopping Scams
In the NewsSeth Ketron, marketing professor at the University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business, spoke with KSTP about the rise in social media shopping scams and why consumers should be cautious when making holiday purchases online. From the segment:Retail expert Seth Ketron at the University of St. Thomas said the rise of “micro-influencers” on social… -
In the News: Aaron Sackett on Target’s Effort to Rebuild Customer Loyalty
In the NewsAaron Sackett, marketing professor at the University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business, spoke with MPR News about Target’s new training guidance that encourages employees to smile and interact more with customers as the company works to rebuild shopper loyalty. From the conversation:Minnesota-based retail giant Target is encouraging its store employees to smile and… -
In the News: Andy Babula on the Risks of Real Estate Consolidation in St. Paul
Opus NewsAndy Babula, director of the University of St. Thomas real estate program, spoke with the Minnesota Star Tribune and provided commentary on the collapse of Madison Equities and the deep challenges now facing downtown St. Paul. He explained how the firm’s aggressive acquisition strategy, heavy debt load and concentrated control of key properties created conditions…