79 Comments

  1. Robert Brady
    July 9, 2012 @ 4:30 pm

    You will be missed.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 5:38 am

      Thanks, Robert. You’re a good man. And a good friend.

  2. Arienne
    July 9, 2012 @ 4:33 pm

    Congratulations, Scott! I’m so happy for you. It sounds like this is a decision a long time in the making, and I wish you the best. I know you’ll be a great Dr. Cowley.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 5:42 am

      Thanks, Arienne. This has been a goal for a long time, and it’s funny because I haven’t actually done anything yet–just made it in the door. It’s all uphill from here!

  3. AJ Wilcox
    July 9, 2012 @ 4:33 pm

    Scott, you will be missed. You’ve been a fixture in the local scene. Definitely hit me up for research collab. Have fun in my old stomping grounds and best of luck!

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 5:43 am

      Thank you, AJ. I’ll definitely hit you up. I look forward to following your accomplishments at Domo!

  4. Jonathon Colman
    July 9, 2012 @ 5:23 pm

    Wow, congratulations Scott! Sounds like you and your family at the start of a great new adventure. And it couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy. Good luck in school and cheers on your success — go Sun Devils! :)

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 5:46 am

      Thanks, Jonathon. We picked a great day to leave and send the SEO world into a panic! Some of the reactions were priceless. :)

      Cheers to you on your next phase as well!

  5. Dana Lookadoo
    July 9, 2012 @ 5:25 pm

    WOW! WOW! WOW! Thanks for the PubCon mention, but most of all thanks for inspiring me as well as many others.

    I’ve been thinking lately about Avinash’s encouragement at MozCon last year that to grow, one needs to spend at least 4 hours a week studying a subject. You are going to immerse yourself in marketing. I look forward to the seeing you on the other side!

    God speed in your efforts! Don’t be quiet. We’ll be watching you… ;-)

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 5:52 am

      Thanks, Dana! I’d like to stick as close to 4 hours a week on this one, but something tells me it’ll be closer to 44 hours. Please stay in touch. :)

  6. Mark Barrera
    July 9, 2012 @ 6:03 pm

    Congrats and best of luck on the new adventures!

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 5:55 am

      Thanks, Mark. We’ll always have Vegas! (And the news today is that they got approval to build a federal interstate between Phoenix and Las Vegas, so every fall, I can make a quick drive over during PubCon and say hello)

  7. Mitchell Wright
    July 9, 2012 @ 6:15 pm

    Scott,

    I’m very excited for you! This is most definitely an awesome opportunity for you. I have to give you a big thanks for helping me out on my first SEO consulting gig. It has been a snowball that has been building and building towards me landing my job fresh out of college that most of my peers won’t have opportunities to have until 3-5 years down the road.

    Let me know if you ever want to collab on some research. I’m all about breaking new ground and trying out new things.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:00 am

      Thanks, Mitchell. It has been awesome to witness your rapid progress and I can’t take much credit for any of it. As I get into teaching, I’ll probably bounce some curriculum ideas off of you since I value your perspective. I’ve loved the conversations we’ve had around education. Now time to go push things in the right direction!

  8. Kristy Bolsinger
    July 9, 2012 @ 6:54 pm

    Scott – Congratulations :) I so admire your choice!! Much luck!!

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:02 am

      Thanks, Kristy. SEOs with MBAs are my favorite people in the world–rare, but incredibly talented. I look forward to staying in touch!

  9. Bags
    July 9, 2012 @ 7:08 pm

    Let me know when you hit the classroom. I’d audit a class from Dr. Cowley any day. You’re a champ, my friend.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:07 am

      Much love, Bags. Nobody shakes things up, reinvents, or keeps people guessing nearly as well as you. You’re welcome in my classroom any time.

  10. Luke
    July 9, 2012 @ 8:02 pm

    Big congrats Scott. I’m excited for you.

    You are someone I look up to. Wish the best for you and your family in the next journey!

    Hit me up for the research when it comes around. Would love to help.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:08 am

      Thanks, Luke. I’ve loved seeing your career progress lately. We didn’t share the same state nearly long enough, but I’ll be back to visit and we’ll share some more good times. Don’t ask me where to find a karaoke bar around here though. :)

  11. Matt Siltala
    July 9, 2012 @ 8:04 pm

    Well bro PHX ain’t so bad & as long as you make sure our visits are frequent I’ll keep you up to speed in the industry. Best of luck and looking forward to seeing you more in MY state now. :-)

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:12 am

      Sounds like I’m getting the much better end of the deal! Can’t wait to experience the part of PHX that everyone seems to love–assuming I survive past September. Looking forward to good times.

  12. Elmer Boutin
    July 9, 2012 @ 8:14 pm

    Good luck, Scott!

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:13 am

      Thanks, Elmer. I’m glad we’re friends. And technically we live closer to eachother now! We’ll have to meet up in New Mexico sometime. It’s only fair. :)

      • Elmer Boutin
        July 10, 2012 @ 5:24 pm

        That’s true – you are technically closer. And, there are some parts of New Mexico I absolutely love to visit!

        Of course, you’re not too far from Vegas for PubCon, either. I’m sure Dr. Scott will have something to contribute in future. :-)

  13. scott
    July 9, 2012 @ 8:28 pm

    Well, my fine sir, I am rarely both jealous and excited for someone at the same time. Congrats and good luck in your new efforts!

    The “other” Scott

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:16 am

      Sometimes jealousy really makes a good fuel in small quantities. You’re a great human being, Scott. Keep working hard.

  14. Nicole Bullock
    July 9, 2012 @ 8:52 pm

    I’m so excited for you Scott! There will be a big void here in SLC with you gone. I appreciate all of your advice and friendship over the last few years. You’re going to be great, Dr. Cowley!

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:19 am

      Thanks, Nicole. You have a heart of gold and I’m so glad we’re friends. And none of this talk about “voids.” SLC just keeps getting better and better as far as I’m concerned.

  15. Brett Tabke
    July 9, 2012 @ 8:58 pm

    Good luck Scott! Bust ’em up!

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:22 am

      Thanks, Brett. You’re a huge inspiration to me. I’m sure our paths will cross again soon! Phoenix isn’t very far from Vegas, after all.

  16. Mandi Hudson
    July 9, 2012 @ 9:15 pm

    Congrats and good luck! I do adore the world of education! Now I will have PhD envy as it has been a possibility in the back of my mind for years.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:24 am

      Thanks, Mandi. I can’t tell you I understand what you’ve been through the last couple of years, but every time I see you, you’re always smiling. You’re an amazing example to me and many others.

  17. Carina
    July 9, 2012 @ 9:46 pm

    Such great news! Congratulations to you all. The field is in desperate need of people who understand digital marketing, and I know you will be fantastic!

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:27 am

      Thanks, Carina. That statement contains a lot of truth and a lot of my motivations for going on to do this. The plan is to stay relevant and be part of the solution in our education system. Thanks for believing in me.

  18. Thom Allen
    July 9, 2012 @ 9:46 pm

    Scott, I’m so glad for you and your family. It’s sad to see friends leave, but it’s even more exciting to know you’re off pursuing dreams. Everyone should do that. It’s a good thing the Internet let’s people stay in touch.

    Thanks for everything you have taught me. I appreciate all your wisdom, your examples, you dedication to family, and your craft. I’ve always considered you a friend, and I will always appreciate the time we spent together.

    But hey, this isn’t an obituary, so enough with the teary eyes. Go rock it man. Good luck and we’ll see you around.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:29 am

      Thom, at least I know if I ever need an obituary written up, I know exactly who to call!

      You’re a good friend and I’ll definitely see you around. Next stop: WordCamp Phoenix!

  19. Janet Thaeler
    July 9, 2012 @ 10:48 pm

    Whoa, didn’t see that coming! My favorite line is the thank you to Myra.

    I think you’ll be incredible at this and love doing it. Plus your PowerPoint presentations will blow your students away. Are you set on teaching at a particular university?

    You know my friend and business partner Paul Wilson? It’s his dream to teach – he got a MS in ecommerce from Carnegie Melon. He’ll teach eventually but now he runs his own businesses (which have done quite well).

    I wish you the best. Thanks for blogging about this so we can follow your journey. I think a farewell party is in order. Maybe at the last SLCMC meeting before you leave?? Or maybe Zagg could turn the occassion into a great event/contest by giving away iPads or something.

    Blog On
    Janet

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:33 am

      Thanks, Janet! At this point, I have no preferences. I’m not thinking at all about the end.

      In the next couple of weeks, I plan to be at SMCSLC, SOCOMX, AMA, and if those aren’t enough opportunities to party already, we may have to do something else. :)

  20. Ross Walker
    July 9, 2012 @ 11:01 pm

    Scott,

    Wow… this will leave a large hole in the SLC online community. That part makes me a little sad. At the same time though there is nothing more exciting to me that someone willing to take a little risk, and go after what they want. Great job!

    I am trying to think of a bacon themed joke to place here… and I am at a loss.

    Congratulations.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:36 am

      Thanks, Ross. I’ve always felt like entrepreneurs like you are the real risk takers. But at least nobody can fault me for being stagnant. Eat a strip in my honor!

  21. Maile
    July 9, 2012 @ 11:13 pm

    Thank you my friend for your kind mention. I am honored. As others have eloquently said, you will be missed. You have always been a bright spot in my journey and I personally will miss harassing you at events. Please keep in touch. I’m already in rabid anticipation of both your research and wisdom and know you’ll grace us with your knowledge once gained.

    Life is a journey and some make more of it than others. I’m so excited for you to take yours up a notch! It could not have happened to a nicer guy.

    Best wishes,

    Maile

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:40 am

      Thanks, Maile. I’ll try not to keep you in suspense for too long. :)

  22. Sheri
    July 9, 2012 @ 11:15 pm

    I am not surprised, of course. A little birdie mentioned this to me several years ago. HA! Much success to you, Scott. You’re one of the smartest, focused — and nicest — guys I’ve ever met. I wish you well in all facets of life. Sheri

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:42 am

      Thank you for believing in me, Sheri. I guarantee my travels will take me to Texas and we’ll definitely have a reunion party.

  23. Tiana Smith
    July 9, 2012 @ 11:47 pm

    Wow! Congrats and GOOD LUCK! That sounds like you’ll have an adventure. You’ll make a great teacher :) Keep us all updated on your goings-on!

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:44 am

      Thanks, Tiana. Just don’t think your flattery will get me to do NaNoWriMo any time soon, unless of course I can count my dissertation. :)

  24. Kathy D
    July 10, 2012 @ 3:48 am

    Scott,

    A BIG congratulations! You are destined to do great things. It has been a pleasure to learn from you.

    (Please save me a signed copy of your book circa 2020?)

    All the best!

    Kathy

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:46 am

      Thank you, Kathy! I’m glad we FINALLY got to meet up–and not a moment too soon. I’m proud of people like you who organize and bring others in the community together. The world needs more Kathy D’s!

  25. James Keddington
    July 10, 2012 @ 3:52 am

    Scott,

    I will be honest, when you told me you were leaving SLC for your PhD, I swear I heard Yoda say something about a disturbance in the force. Keep in touch and let us know about all the cool stuff you discover.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 10, 2012 @ 6:48 am

      Thanks, James. We’ve shared some great times and I know that the marketing community is in good hands with you around.

  26. Iain
    July 10, 2012 @ 9:03 am

    Congrats. This sounds like a really exciting opportunity and I hope it all works out the way you imagine it will. It takes a bit of courage to step away from something that is going well for the chance to follow a dream and you should be commended for that.

    I trust you are aware that it’s going to be All Your Fault when Arizona is far too hot for a heavily pregnant woman to sleep!!

    All the best.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 12, 2012 @ 1:15 pm

      Thanks, Iain. I hear that your ears adjust to the constant whir of ceiling fans down in Arizona. :)

  27. Chad Waite
    July 10, 2012 @ 4:08 pm

    Scott, you’re the only person that I know that could do a first blog post on a brand new site and somehow get 51 comments on it. Super impressive. Congrats on the big change and don’t melt in Arizona.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 12, 2012 @ 1:18 pm

      Thanks, Chad. It’s tough to move knowing there are cool people like you (rick-rolls notwithstanding) back in Utah. But everyone needs to get out of their comfort zone every once in a while, including me.

  28. Dave Parkinsnon
    July 10, 2012 @ 7:03 pm

    Scott if there is one thing that defines you in my eyes it is that you’ve got character. I appreciate you, you will be missed.

    char·ac·ter [kar-ik-ter] noun
    1. the aggregate of features and traits that form the individual nature of some person or thing.
    2. moral or ethical quality: a man of fine, honorable character.
    3. qualities of honesty, courage, or the like; integrity

    • Scott Cowley
      July 12, 2012 @ 1:21 pm

      Thanks, Dave. I’m going to miss you, but I’ll still be around to chat. I love bouncing ideas off of you. Also, I think you missed something:

      9. informal an odd, eccentric, or unusual person: he’s quite a character

  29. Melissa Fach
    July 10, 2012 @ 8:35 pm

    Scott, I am very happy that you are making a move that will make you happy. I will miss seeing you in the SEO world and soaking in your knowledge. I hope we still see you around Twitter and you will let us know how things are going. Sad you are missing Pubcon…but I am sure we will catch up at some point. Good luck and congrats! Looking forward to asking Dr. Cowley for advice :)

    • Scott Cowley
      July 12, 2012 @ 1:26 pm

      Thanks, Melissa. You’re probably the kindest person in SEO. I’ll definitely be around and available. I wish I would’ve timed things just a little differently so that we could have met up this year. I know it’ll happen eventually–and best of luck with your upcoming speaking presentations!

  30. Tyler Hartle
    July 10, 2012 @ 11:08 pm

    Best of luck to you Scooter! Dibs on the first run of your book. ~Tyler

    • Scott Cowley
      July 12, 2012 @ 1:27 pm

      Done and done. Thanks, Tyler. We’ve made a lot of good memories. :)

  31. Alan Bleiweiss
    July 11, 2012 @ 2:51 am

    Scott,

    Dude – it’s always a joy to read about others in the industry making a change to pursue their dreams, their passions. We really are a bunch of go-getters and you’re going to shine!

    • Scott Cowley
      July 12, 2012 @ 1:28 pm

      Thanks, Alan. If anyone knows something about pursuing their dreams, it’s definitely you. I’ve enjoyed getting to know you these last few years and seeing the kind of respect you gather from around the industry. Looking forward to great things from you in California!

  32. Alison Herzog
    July 11, 2012 @ 5:16 am

    I’m not even sure where to begin. I suppose first things are first: if we have a party, that means #PDR is providing the beverages, right? I kid, I kid (sort of).

    I am so incredibly excited for you! I think you will make an amazing professor – and am almost drawn to the possibility of taking more classes in the future – just so I can watch you in action (and learn, of course). I had one professor at BYU, Glen Christensen, that finally seemed to possess the qualities I admired as an MBA student – experience, intellect, and open-mindedness. You’ll do the same and with equal flair, I’m sure.

    I am so honored to have been mentioned. (if it’s a different Alison with one L, let’s pretend I’m blushing from the heat.) I will be sad to not see your face around these parts. You have been a favorite of mine to learn from and to shoot the breeze with. I’ll expect you to keep up with Twitter (and FB), so we’re not too much at a loss. Also, I feel like we should create a “Friends of Scott Cowley” group. After reading this post, I really want to get to know each and every name that is new to me.

    Good luck! I know ASU doesn’t know how fortunate they truly are.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 12, 2012 @ 1:41 pm

      Thanks, Alison. I’m overwhelmed by your encouragement and friendship right now. Yes, the mention above is definitely you.

      I don’t pretend to think I can match Glenn’s flair (I’ve known him for a few years), but if I can bring the same experience and open-mindedness to the classroom, with the added relevance of knowing how to navigate the digital world, then hopefully I can make a lasting difference. Best of luck to you in your new adventures with family and everything else you have going on. I look forward to staying it touch. :)

  33. missing scott cowley | In the Land of Zog
    July 11, 2012 @ 5:34 am

    […] would-be stalker but rather, to express appreciation.  Scott thanked a number of people who had shaped his life in different ways. My name happens to be on that list. I think. But reading through that list made […]

  34. Matt Higbee
    July 11, 2012 @ 2:41 pm

    Great to hear Scott. Sounds like an adventure. I wish you luck!

    • Scott Cowley
      July 12, 2012 @ 1:34 pm

      Thanks, Matt. You’ve got adventures of your own these days. I keep seeing you EVERYWHERE! *wink, wink, nudge, nudge*

  35. Tyson Hymas
    July 11, 2012 @ 7:43 pm

    Scott! This is awesome! Good luck on your journey. I have no doubts that you will crush it! Thank you for everything you have taught me. I am proud to say that I have learned from the best!

    Take care and keep in touch…
    Tyson

    • Scott Cowley
      July 12, 2012 @ 1:36 pm

      Thanks, Tyson. I’ll definitely keep in touch. I have no doubt that great things are in store for you and I love following your progress as an SEO. I’ll be coming to you for SEO advice before long. :)

  36. Steven Elder
    July 11, 2012 @ 9:13 pm

    I wish you the best Scott! You’re a good man. I’ve enjoyed getting to know you.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 12, 2012 @ 1:32 pm

      Thanks, Steven. The feeling is mutual. I’ll keep you posted!

  37. Ash Buckles
    July 12, 2012 @ 4:20 pm

    Better late than never?

    Thanks for your contributions! An your friendship. You’ve been instrumental in Twitter contests from both sides of the fence and you have uncanny luck. I’m still interested in having you join me in Vegas for the weekend. :)

    You’re generous and friendly with everyone and your sense of humor is unmatched. You’ll be missed but I’ll definitely let you know when I’m in Phoenix so we can meet up.

    Go. Do. And make us proud in the world of academia! I’m sure you will.

    • Scott Cowley
      July 13, 2012 @ 5:44 am

      Thank you, Ash! I’ve always thought that contest psychology would be an awesome thing to study. Hopefully I’ll get the chance (and it’ll help our odds when we do that Vegas trip).

      Definitely let me know when you’re in town. We’ll have enough internet marketers down there to throw a good party!

  38. The Saturday Summary – 7/14/2012 | The Crossing of Marketing and IT
    July 14, 2012 @ 12:34 pm

    […] Cowley is one of the nicest guys in the SEO business. He announced today he’s stepping down from his in-house SEO gig at Zagg to pursue more educat… We certainly wish Scott all the best. This is cool: he’ll be the second “Dr. […]

  39. Stephen Eugene Adams
    July 24, 2012 @ 3:41 pm

    Welcome to Phoenix Scott. Stop by and we can go to lunch.

  40. Nathan Campbell
    July 25, 2012 @ 4:33 pm

    Scott,

    I am so excited for you. You will be great at whatever you choose “because your heart is true!” Good luck.

    ps- I wish I could have beamed you in the head one more time with my Nerf gun while at SEO.com. :)

    Nate The Skate

  41. I'm Not Leaving SEO | John Doherty
    August 28, 2012 @ 12:15 pm

    […] yeah, let’s not forget Scott Cowley who announced a few months ago that he also is leaving SEO to pursue a PhD and then to be a professor. Good for you Scott, but I’ll miss your voice in the industry, […]

  42. Gabriella Sannino
    October 28, 2012 @ 12:07 am

    Why am I always the last to know these things? No one sent me the memo ;)

    I guess that’s what I get for being busy, moving across the country, house/office hunting, including balancing my workload. But now that I’m catching up on my reading… *yeahhhh* doing the Snoopy happy dance! Congratulations (soon to be Dottore Cowley) I’m very proud of you, and I will always cherish the time I met you at PubCon. Don’t be a stranger Scott you are loved, respected and you will be missed!