Major: 

Communication

Year Graduated: 

2009

Hometown: 

Saint Joseph, Missouri

Current City: 

New York, New York

Current Employer: 

Account Director, Delta Air Lines at Octagon

Top played song on your playlist?: 

POWER by Kanye West

Where has your CI degree taken you?: 

After graduating from UK, I earned a Master of Science in Sport Administration from the University of Louisville.

Since 2011, I have held multiple positions across the sport and entertainment industry, including collaborations with iconic Fortune 500 brands (e.g. AT&T, Delta Air Lines) and all major U.S. professional leagues.

Currently, I am an Account Director at Octagon, the world’s largest sports and entertainment agency. I manage consulting, marketing, and client services for Delta Air Lines with a focus on the New York sponsorship portfolio. I get to work with some of the most valuable brands in sports, such as the New York Knicks, New York Rangers, New York Mets, and New York Yankees.

Previously, I held positions with The Marketing Arm, Charlotte Hornets, and Churchill Downs.

What is your favorite thing about your job?: 

Variety. Each day brings new projects and fresh challenges.

My career experiences have spanned a wide range of events, including the Boston Marathon, GRAMMY Awards, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Men’s Final Four Championship, and multiple college football bowl games. Additionally, I have managed relationships with several world-class athletes, such as Serena Williams, Kristaps Porzingis, Chipper Jones, Didi Gregorius, and Noah Syndergaard.

I never have the same schedule twice. That spontaneity keeps things exciting and interesting.

What¹s the most valuable thing you learned in CI?: 

The power of storytelling, particularly in marketing. A compelling narrative can connect, engage, inspire, and persuade. The world is more cluttered now than ever before. Consumers have unlimited access to content and data. The ability to share stories that are both authentic and relevant is what ultimately drives action and change. You need simple, emotional communication to help consumers process this information.

What advice would you give to current CI students?: 

Read, personally and professionally. Never stop learning.

Find unique ways to add value. Make yourself indispensable.