New ETSU student-run agency, Buck House, provides paid marketing experience and plans a downtown presence

Dean Petarisi and Dr. Melanie Richards introduced trustees to Buck House, a student-run advertising and media agency launched in January and housed within the recently created School of Marketing and Media. Dr. Richards said the agency allows students to work on real client projects under faculty mentorship and that participation is paid to avoid forcing students to choose between income and experience. “Buck House provides that opportunity to do both things at the same time,” she said.

Examples presented to the board included recruitment materials for ETSU Army ROTC, work for the ETSU Strong BRAIN Institute and ROAMS Scholars Program, and an external engagement producing social media content for regional franchise Johnny Brusco's Pizza. Students who work with Buck House described hands‑on access to industry‑standard cameras and production equipment and said the experience improved their professional confidence and portfolios.

Dr. Richards described next steps that include expanding event marketing services, pursuing community partnerships, obtaining a community‑engaged learning certification, and establishing a physical presence downtown at the former Ash Street Courthouse (space and furniture orders are in queue, with an expected move in the spring). Trustees asked about how the agency handles AI tools; Dr. Richards said AI is integrated as a tool with clear guardrails so the creative strategy and critical thinking remain student‑led and faculty‑supervised.