72andSunny is dipping into the realm of education with the opening of 72U, a 10-month course in which the agency claims to be an “intensive, one-of-a-kind learning experience designed to open people up to new ways of thinking, collaborating and tackling modern communication problems.”
The school will be co-directed by Geoff McGann, whose arsenal includes over 20 years in the field and some ass-whooping prowess as a seven-time international Jiu-Jitsu champion. McGann’s resume includes instructing at schools including Art Center College of Design. Alongside him is Kelly Schoeffel, strategy director at 72andSunny. Though she has no martial arts training on record, Kelly boasts a PhD in social psychology from Harvard and a background in guerrilla street theater.
Who do they want to sign? Everyone from top agency talent to C-level executives of 72andSunny clients and members of the creative industry outside of traditional advertising. Clarify this for us please, Mr. McGann: “We’re looking for creative thinkers of all kinds – writers, designers, strategists, technologists, entrepreneurs, publicists, you name it.” Schoeffel adds, “Our goal is to assemble a group of smart, enthusiastic people who want to grow laterally as creative problem solvers, and are stoked to create an unforgettable first year with us.”