Returning to UNC Hussman: Colby Teixeira on creativity, Converge-Con and life after graduation 

Last semester, art director at TBWA and newly minted UNC Hussman alumnus Colby Teixeira ’24 returned to campus as a guest speaker for the first year of Converge-Con, where he spoke about AI, the creative process and post-grad life in New York City. Teixeira’s presentation took audience members through the momentum that has defined his early career, beginning in classrooms and a creative partnership with friends in Chapel Hill. 

During the summer of Teixeira’s junior year, he was approached by a friend about joining Franklin Street Market, a Chapel Hill-based entertainment agency. His friend asked if he would like to not worry about rent or student loan payments.

“I thought it sounded like a potluck dream,” Teixeira said. “But I said, ‘You know what? Let’s do it.'” 

Franklin Street Market was his first crash course in advertising, leadership and producing full-scale work while still being a student. He learned what it meant to operate as a brand, even when still figuring out what that looks like. His introduction to advertising was boots on the ground, hands-on and rooted in late nights, collaborations and a drive to make something that felt authentic on campus.  

“I didn’t get to a point where I didn’t have to worry about my student loans, but we did a lot. We had fun, saw partnerships, artists on campus and sales,” said Teixeira. “It was worth its weight in gold, and I look back on it with a smile.” 

Today, Teixiera contributes to massive brands within a fast-paced culture of pitches, campaigns and brand work as an art director.  He’s currently working through concepts for a project with Formula 1. Rather than being intimidated, he embraces the challenges in stride.  

“I used to think balance was 50/50, but there are certain seasons for certain things,” he said.  “Right now, it’s a very busy season for us, so it’s really important for me to lean in.”  

Working in New York can be demanding, but Teixeira embraces the opportunity that Manhattan presents creatives and early-career professionals. “You can’t be a D-minus student at work. You have to get an A-plus,” he said. 

During his presentation, Teixeira walked audience members through his ideation process and how he overcomes creator’s block. He shared that he begins every project the same way, by simply putting pen to paper. When he feels stuck, he commonly references his favorite movies, shows and anime for inspiration. 

Scott Geier, Converge-Con founder and UNC Hussman assistant professor, said he invited Teixeira because he offered something different from traditional panelists.

“When I was planning Converge-Con, I realized most of our speakers were older executives. That’s a valuable but limited perspective,” Geier said. “What about asking people who just entered the work force, especially creatives, how is AI affecting them?”

Reconnecting with Teixeira was a highlight of his first year organizing the event.

“Seeing a former student now working as a professional was honestly the coolest part of Converge-Con,” Geier said. “It’s really why I got into teaching. We really feel like colleagues now.” 

Returning to UNC Hussman for Converge-Con marked a personal milestone, one that came with both excitement and anxiety.

“There was a bit of imposter syndrome,” Teixiera admitted, “but when you’re in the arena, and you’re doing stuff, you rise to the occasion.”  

While his return to campus was an opportunity to share insights with students and catch up with professors, there were two members of the audience that stood out: his parents. He spoke about their support and enthusiasm throughout his journey.  

“My parents always said ‘Do whatever you want, as long as you just go hard.’ I knew that, and I’ve always known that,” he said. 

Teixeira’s story proves that you don’t need years of experience to make an impact; just drive, community and the willingness to jump into the fire. From Franklin Street to NYC, he is just beginning a career that’s already shaping the world he once studied at UNC Hussman.