Three Questions for Bree Bunzel ’11

Name: Bree Bunzel

Title and Organization: Customer Marketing Lead, OpenAI

Graduation Year and Degree: 2011 JBA in Journalism and Mass Communication

Alum Bree Bunzel (JBA’11) was very active during her time on campus. She took part in The Badger Herald as the Advertising Display Manager and Advertising Director and was a member of the American Advertising Federation (AAF) and the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). Through her activities on campus, experience in professional settings and in her personal life Bunzel has shown her passion for activism and fostering community.

When it comes to your work and career, what are you most proud of?

I’ve spent the last few years focused more on advocacy work for Asians & Allies in Tech, being the person I wish my younger self had and creating community and opportunities to lift the next generation. Representation matters and diversity of thought, perspective and culture can become your super powers.

What’s the best advice you have for a student who wants to do what you do?

The quality of your life is determined by the quality of your relationships, and your business life is no different. The relationships I built through J-school classes, working as The Advertising Director for The Badger Herald, sports, greek life and more lasted a lifetime. I’ve also learned throughout my career that writing, storytelling and articulating your thoughts clearly and simply is one of the most underrated skills in business and in life. Thank you J-School!

What is your favorite SJMC memory?

Some of my favorite memories included Professor Baughman’s History of Journalism lectures disguised as comedy skits, he had a wealth of knowledge, endless stories and made everyone feel special. I also enjoyed Debra Pierce’s fun and practical J445 class, where my friend Jori Bell and I created a new digital Go-To-Market pitch for Trader Joe’s.