Bobbie Rathjens, Ph.D.

With a unique academic foundation—holding a master’s degree in marketing research and a Ph.D. in Communication—Bobbie’s expertise bridges the fields of social influence, consumer behavior, and communication technology. Her research focuses on the power of social media influencers in changing attitudes, shaping brand perception, and transforming online communication. She has published in leading journals, including the Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Research, the International Journal of Hospitality Management, among others.

Bobbie brings a wealth of industry experience to her academic career, having previously served as a director of marketing for a nationally recognized ski and golf resort and as a corporate social media strategist in the healthcare sector. This background informs her teaching and mentorship, where she integrates real-world applications into her courses.