DALLAS COOK
Staff Writer
When entering her office, students are likely to be greeted with a hug, candy and a smile. Her affectionate persona instantly makes students feel comfortable. She does not need candy or caffeine because she is so filled with energy and life. In fact, she runs 50 miles each week.
On a typical day of class, she’s dressed in a jubilant smile, flowered shirt and bright-colored jacket that matches her vibrant personality.
An alumna of Seaver College, class of 1981, with a doctorate degree in Information Systems and more than 20 published works under her belt, Dr. Ginger Rosenkrans is celebrating her 12th year as a professor at Pepperdine University.
“I get so excited to come to class and see my students every day,” said Rosenkrans. She lit up when she talked about her work, students and the Lord. “I see my work as a gift from God.”
Although attendance to her classes is mandatory, students said they would attend class regularly because each class period is essential for learning and applicable to their field of study.
“Ginger is incredibly passionate about everything in her life,” said senior public relations major Hillary Brown. She had Rosenkrans last spring, but still frequently stops by her office to stay in touch.
“I’m going to invite her to my wedding,” Brown said.
Every student who has Rosenkrans cannot seem to stop raving about her.
“She’s a teacher that finds a way to connect with her kids on any level,” said sophomore Kristen Kiley. “She’s a lady that’s high on life and loves people.”
Rosenkrans earned her doctorate in information systems in the Graduate School of Computer and Information Sciences at Nova Southeastern University. Before coming to Pepperdine, Rosenkrans worked for NBC as a camera operator and taught at UCLA. She is also a member of 8 prestigious professional organizations including the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers and the American Academy of Advertising.
Her specialization and research interests include Internet advertising effectiveness, online advertising metrics, web analytics, online ad design and interactivity, and newspapers news of online advertising. She was awarded three research grants for her most recent article, titled Online Auctions as Advertising Revenue in the Media Mix, which appeared in the Fall 2005 edition of the Journal of Interactive Advertising.
Rosenkrans is a woman who is highly qualified in the advertising industry, but believes Pepperdine is the best place for her to be. A fellow communication professor, Dr. Juanie Walker, said Rosenkrans views her job as her ministry.
“Whenever I think of a colleague that embodies the mission of Pepperdine and has an incredible passion for what they do, Ginger is that person,” Walker said. Walker has taught at Pepperdine alongside Rosenkrans for 11 years.
“Ginger has such a ministry and calling for what she does,” Walker continued, “Her energy is incredible.”
Rosenkrans’ ministry includes three upper division advertising classes as well as a communication graphics course. Recently, her advertising 475 class pitched a campaign to real clients for Habitat for Humanity.
“My students are brilliant, talented and motivated,” Rosenkrans said.
Numerous students, including Brown, say Rosenkrans is one of their favorite professors at Pepperdine.
“Every assignment is relative and applicable to real life. In fact, she shows our projects to advertising companies to get us internships and jobs,” Brown said.
Another steadfast in her life is her husband, Greg. “He is awesome, gentle, patient, kind and my best friend,” she said, adding that their 20 years together have gone by so fast.
Rosenkrans does not like talking about herself. Instead, she prefers to give the glory to God.
“I love the Lord with my whole heart and thank him for everything.”
01-19-2006