
HoYoung Anthony Ahn
Biography
Dr. Ahn’s academic journey began in mathematics before he discovered his passion for advertising and its power to connect with people and inspire meaningful change. His background in mathematics and statistics continues to shape his interdisciplinary approach, connecting creativity, data, and consumer insights. Before entering academia, he worked in digital advertising in South Korea, developing search engine marketing campaigns and data-driven strategies that continue to inform his teaching and research.
His research explores how emerging technologies can create value responsibly while promoting consumer well-being, with a focus on artificial intelligence in advertising, personalized digital advertising, consumer psychology, and ethical communication. Inspired by Claude Hopkins’ scientific approach to advertising and Ernest Dichter’s motivational research, Dr. Ahn integrates quantitative and qualitative methods to better understand consumer motivations, experiences, and behaviors. He is particularly interested in how technology can foster meaningful and trustworthy relationships between brands and consumers.
As an educator, Dr. Ahn believes teaching is more than delivering knowledge; it is about helping ideas take root and inspiring students to think, question, and grow. He often reminds his students of Robert Herrick’s famous 17th-century poem, “To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time,” which begins with the line “Gather ye rosebuds while ye may,” embracing the spirit of carpe diem and encouraging students to make the most of their learning opportunities. He developed the “Ahn”stoppable Learning App, an interactive AI-powered tool that encourages participation, provides real-time feedback, and helps students overcome the “fear of asking questions” (FASK). He continues to explore innovative uses of AI to make learning more engaging, accessible, and personalized.
Dr. Ahn’s commitment to service extends beyond the classroom. His 28 months of military service in South Korea shaped his resilience, discipline, and appreciation for teamwork. He also serves as a teacher for students with autism at his church, an experience that continues to deepen his understanding of compassion, patience, and faithful service.
At Pepperdine University, Dr. Ahn is grateful to serve in a community where faith, learning, scholarship, and spiritual growth come together. He views education as a shared journey of growth and sees teaching, research, and service as opportunities to live out God’s purpose and make a meaningful difference. As Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” For Dr. Ahn, the highest goal of his vocation is not simply to pursue excellence, but to honor and please God through his teaching, research, and service.
Outside the classroom, he enjoys spending time with his family, playing tennis, pickleball, swimming, and golf, and spending time with his dog, Tofu. He also enjoys playing gospel songs and hymns on guitar with his wife, a professional violist.
Education
- PhD Communication and Information, Concentration in Advertising, Minor in Statistics, University of Tennessee
- MA Mass Communication, Concentration in Advertising, University of Georgia
- BBA Bachelor of Business Administration, Concentration in Advertising, Hongik University, South Korea
Topics
- Artificial Intelligence in Advertising
- Personalization in Digital Advertising
- Consumer Psychology
- Ethic and Faith-based Advertising
- Promotional Strategies in Marketing Communication and Health
- Religion and Christianity in Advertising
Courses
Courses Teaching Currently:- Media Planning (ADV 375)
- Consumer Behavior (ADV 461)
- Introduction to Advertising (ADV 275)
- Intro to Statistics (COM 240)
- Principles of Advertising
- Advertising and Promotional Design
- Communication and Product Information Communication
- Fundamentals of Communication Design
- Communication Research Methods