Ithaca College is proud to announce that Jason DeLand, a distinguished alumnus and co-founder of the globally renowned advertising agency Anomaly, will be the keynote speaker at the 129th Commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 19, 2024.
Jason DeLand, Co-Founder of Anomaly, to Deliver Ithaca College Commencement Address
By News, March 25, 2024
A 1998 graduate of the college, DeLand has made a significant mark in the advertising world, particularly known for his work on iconic Super Bowl ads for Budweiser, including “Best Buds,” “Lost Dog,” and “Puppy Love.” Since its inception in 2004, Anomaly has risen to prominence under DeLand’s leadership, becoming one of the most celebrated marketing firms with eight offices and over 750 employees worldwide.
Throughout his career, DeLand has been instrumental in acquiring and managing major accounts such as Coca-Cola, Major League Baseball, Disney Parks and Resorts, Panera, and Dick’s Sporting Goods as well as Anomaly’s venture businesses. His significant contribution to managing the Global Budweiser account is particularly noteworthy. In addition to producing three of the most popular and the most viewed Super Bowl ads in history, he has overseen Budweiser’s World Cup sponsorships and facilitated its expansion into markets like China and Nigeria.
Recognized as one of Adweek's “20 Most Influential People Under 40” in 2012, DeLand has led Anomaly to numerous accolades, including Fast Company’s “50 Most Innovative Companies in the World,” Ad Age’s “US Agency of the Year” in 2018, and Adweek’s equivalent honor in 2022.
A committed advocate for social responsibility, DeLand has been a board member of the DREAM Charter School in Harlem since 2014. His insights as a press commentator and marketing expert have been featured on platforms like Bloomberg News, Fast Company, Ad Age, Business Insider, and several podcasts.
DeLand’s connection to Ithaca College remains strong. As a student, he earned a B.S. in communications from the Roy H. Park School of Communications and was a dedicated athlete, earning four letters in baseball. Post-graduation, he has contributed significantly to the college, advising on the development of a new visual identity for Ithaca College athletics and collaborating on branding efforts with the college’s marketing and creative teams.
In recognition of his career accomplishments, DeLand was honored with the Ithaca College Alumni Association’s Professional Achievement Award in 2017.
The Ithaca College community looks forward to welcoming Jason DeLand back to campus for the Commencement ceremony, which will take place at 10 a.m. in Glazer Arena of the Athletics and Events Center.
For more information, please visit ithaca.edu/commencement.