Syracuse University’s Center for the Creator Economy will host the second annual ’CUSE Creator Con, bringing together the top creators, industry executives and thinkers who work in this growing space.  

This year’s theme, “Owned and Operated,” reflects the upward momentum of the creator economy, a discipline with real infrastructure, partnerships and interest in an age where social media dominates trends and conversations.  

The event opens Thursday, Oct. 22, with a kickoff celebration at 6 p.m. in Flaum Grand Hall at the Whitman School of Management. Whitman co-leads the Center for the Creator Economy with the Newhouse School of Public Communications, bringing together two leading schools in their respective fields.  

The opening night program features a keynote from Ted Murphy, founder and CEO of COEY, an AI-first media technology company, on the past, present and future of the creator economy. Murphy also founded IZEA and previously served as the company’s CEO.  

Launched in 2025, the center recently welcomed Ryan Schram as its new executive director. Schram will recap the center’s first year and present findings from the center’s inaugural research study. The first night concludes with an “Official After Glow” event at the Gaming and Esports Center in Schine Student Center. 

Programming continues Friday, Oct. 23, at the Whitman School with panels and workshops led by alumni creators, influencers and industry professionals building the future of digital media.   

The Center for the Creator Economy is the first academic center of its kind. Its interdisciplinary work rests on four pillars: academics, research, policy engagement and support for creator-based ventures built by Syracuse University students, alumni, faculty and staff. 

Email creatoreconomy@syr.edu to learn more about ’CUSE Creator Con.