Dr. Erin Reilly

Biography

Erin Reilly is an entrepreneur, educator, and strategist with over 20 years of experience in inventing new approaches and products in storytelling and engagement, particularly in learning and emergent technology. She is currently a Professor of Practice and the Inaugural Director of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at the Moody College of Communication, University of Texas at Austin. In her role, she guides faculty and students in imagining how innovation intersects with entrepreneurship, having designed and launched a new specialization, Texas Immersive. Erin teaches courses on future media and entertainment and builds university-wide initiatives that foster relationships with academic institutions and industry partners. She has authored both academic and industry publications, including works on transmedia storytelling and audience engagement. Her entrepreneurial efforts include founding ReillyWorks, focused on creating connected experiences for families, and she is also known for her social entrepreneurship, founding Zoey's Room. Previously, Erin was a founding member of the Annenberg Innovation Lab at the University of Southern California and has held positions as Managing Creative Director and Research Fellow. She has been involved in significant projects and lectures worldwide at universities and industry conferences. Erin's research interests include audience motivation, immersive interactive storytelling, Web3, blockchain, AI, and emerging technologies.

Research Interests