University of Advancing Technology's Official Technology Blog

Stace Dixon, a seasoned marketing manager with over 13 years of experience in digital marketing, found herself on an enriching journey at the University of Advancing Technology (UAT). Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Digital Marketing, Dixon sought to adapt to the dynamic intersection of technology and marketing. In an engaging conversation with Madison Robinson, Dixon delved into her groundbreaking Student Innovation Project (SIP) called GENkids, a geo-locational mobile app aimed at connecting parents and caregivers with eco-friendly, sustainable activities for children. 

Reflecting on her inspiration for GENkids, Dixon shared, "Before I had children, sustainability and eco-friendliness were already passions of mine. However, once I became a parent, I realized the challenges of finding eco-friendly businesses and activities suitable for families." This realization spurred her to create GENkids, a platform designed to simplify the process for parents by curating sustainable options for children. 

Dixon elaborated on the app's functionality, stating, "GENkids allows users to discover kid-friendly places and events prioritizing sustainability. From playgrounds constructed with sustainable materials to restaurants using biodegradable containers, GENkids empowers parents to make informed decisions while fostering a sense of community among like-minded individuals." 

The verification process for sustainable vendors and locations was a crucial aspect of GENkids. Dixon emphasized, "We leverage third-party certifications such as USDA Organic, B Corp, Leaping Bunny, and more to ensure transparency and authenticity in promoting eco-friendly businesses." 

The success of Dixon's SIP project at UAT was marked by accolades, including the Best in Show and Viewers' Choice awards. Reflecting on this achievement, Dixon attributed it to utilizing UAT’s resources, stating, "I had a lot of support from my professors and mentors, which contributed significantly to the development, enhancement, and outcome of the project. They provided guidance, critical feedback, and encouragement throughout the journey." 

Looking ahead, Dixon expressed her vision for GENkids, saying, "We are currently in the stages of app development, with a dedicated team of students working on production through UAT's Production Studios. GENkids is poised for further development, and I envision it as a catalyst for positive change." 

Dixon's journey exemplifies the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship fostered at UAT. Through projects like GENkids, UAT empowers students to address real-world challenges while instilling a sense of social responsibility. As Dixon continues her career journey, she remains committed to leveraging her skills and passion to make a meaningful impact in digital marketing and sustainability.