2025 AGENDA
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9
9:00 AM
Registration
10:00 AM
IAF Connect
Capacity is limited to 100. Admission will be granted to the first 100 who RSVP’d and check in.
A curated and highly intentional thought leadership and networking program designed to touch on some of the hottest topics and challenges facing your industry and to ensure every attendee leaves with new, meaningful business ideas and relationships.
10:15 AM
Brunch
11:30 AM
Opening Remarks
11:40 AM
College Athletics in the Post-House Settlement Era: Featuring Innovative NIL Strategies
As college athletics enters a transformative phase following the House settlement, athletic departments meet new opportunities in managing revenue sharing, NIL programs, and constantly evolving landscapes. This session brings together the perspectives of a seasoned athletic director and a current student-athlete to explore forward-thinking NIL strategies that enhance the student-athlete experience while aligning with institutional goals. Attendees will gain actionable insights into building sustainable, innovative NIL initiatives that support both competitive success and holistic development.
Moderator: Kim Damron, President, Sports Properties, Learfield
Pat Chun, Athletic Director, University of Washington
12:00 PM
State of the Game: A Conversation with NCAA President Charlie Baker
In a time of sweeping transformation across college athletics, NCAA President Charlie Baker is at the forefront of redefining the future of the enterprise. From landmark reforms and NIL evolution to student-athlete welfare and financial sustainability, the NCAA is navigating a new era of complexity and opportunity. In this featured interview, President Baker will share his vision for the future of college sports, reflecting on the progress made and the challenges ahead.
Charlie Baker, President, NCAA
12:30 PM
Industry Insights
In Good Hands: What Brands Really Want in College Athletics.
In today’s competitive marketplace, brands look for more than logos and signage. They look for purpose. Learn how to position your program to attract mission-driven sponsorship dollars and make a lasting impact. For more than 20 years, Allstate has set the standard in college athletics through initiatives such as the Good Hands Nets and the Good Works Team. This panel will reveal what makes one partner stand out when brands evaluate universities, conferences, and NIL opportunities. This session offers candid insights and winning strategies to make your next partnership resonate with the people who matter most.
Trev Alberts, Athletic Director, Texas A&M University
Warde Manuel, Athletic Director, University of Michigan
Dave Marsey, Senior Vice President, Media, Sponsorships, and Growth Marketing, Allstate
Moderator: Carrie Cecil, CEO, ANACHEL
12:55 PM
Navigating Change in College Athletics: A Look at the Issues of the Day
College athletics is undergoing a seismic shift—driven by evolving NIL policies, conference realignment, media rights negotiations, and increasing financial pressures. For administrators, these changes present both unprecedented challenges and strategic opportunities.
This session will provide a high-level overview of the most pressing business issues shaping the future of college sports.
Jen Cohen, Athletic Director, University of Southern California
Solly Fulp, Executive Vice President, Business Development, Learfield
Tim Pernetti, Commissioner, American Conference
Arianna Scavetti, Partner, Weil LLP
John Weber, Athletic Director, Colorado State University
1:35 PM
The New College Sports Commission: Governance, Oversight, and the Future of the Game
As college athletics continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the formation of a new College Sports Commission marks a pivotal moment in the governance and oversight of the industry. With responsibilities ranging from NIL regulation and athlete rights to competitive balance and institutional accountability, this commission could redefine the framework of college sports as we know it.
This session will explore the commission’s purpose, structure, and potential impact on athletic departments, conferences, and student-athletes. We will examine how this new body may influence policy, compliance, and the business operations of college sports.
Bryan Seeley, CEO, College Sports Commission
1:55 PM
Break
2:25 PM
Power Moves: Inside the Business Strategy of Power 4 Athletics
In an era defined by realignment, revenue growth, and regulatory uncertainty, the role of the Athletic Director has never been more complex—or more critical. This panel brings together Athletic Directors from the Power 4 conferences to discuss the evolving business of college sports from the inside out. From navigating NIL and media rights to managing donor expectations and competitive success, these leaders are shaping the future of collegiate athletics.
Damon Evans, Athletic Director, Southern Methodist University
Beth Goetz, Henry B. and Patricia B. Tippie Director of Athletics Chair, University of Iowa
Kirby Hocutt, Athletic Director, Texas Tech University
Danny White, Athletic Director, University of Tennessee
3:05 PM
Beyond the Playbook: The Changing Role of the Athletic Director
The modern Athletic Director is no longer just a steward of sports programs—they are CEOs, brand strategists, crisis managers, and change agents. As college athletics undergoes rapid transformation driven by NIL, media rights, student-athlete advocacy, and institutional pressures, the expectations placed on ADs have never been higher. This session will explore how the role -of the AD is evolving in response to these shifts.
Chad Chatlos, Managing Partner, TurnkeyZRG
Jeremiah Dickey, Athletic Director, Bosie State University
Jeremiah Donati, Athletic Director, University of South Carolina
Jim Smith, Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics, University of Maryland
3:35 PM
Legacy & Leadership: A Conversation with a Titan of College Athletics
As he prepares to step into an advisory role after a storied career, this session offers a unique opportunity to hear firsthand how he has navigated the evolving landscape of college sports, built a championship culture, and mentored the next generation of athletic leaders.
Joe Castiglione, Athletic Director, University of Oklahoma
3:55 PM
Closing Remarks
4:00 PM
Reception
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10
7:15 AM
Breakfast & Registration
8:00 AM
Inside the ACC: A Featured Conversation with Commissioner Jim Phillips
As college athletics navigates a period of unprecedented change, ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips stands at the intersection of tradition and transformation. With his leadership roles on the NCAA Board of Governors, the College Football Playoff Management Committee, and now as President of the Collegiate Commissioners Association, Phillips brings a unique, national perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing the ACC and beyond.
In this exclusive featured interview, Commissioner Phillips will share his perspective on the evolving landscape of college sports—from governance and realignment to student-athlete support and the future of Olympic sports.
Jim Phillips, Commissioner, Atlantic Coast Conference
8:25 AM
Capital Gains: The Rise of Private Investment in College Sports
As the financial landscape of college athletics grows more complex, private investment has emerged as a powerful—and controversial—player in the game. From media rights and facility development to NIL collectives and conference partnerships, institutional investors are reshaping how college sports are funded, governed, and monetized.
This session will explore the growing influence of private capital in collegiate athletics, examining both the opportunities and risks for athletic departments, conferences, and student-athletes. Panelists will discuss deal structures, governance implications, and the long-term impact of private equity on the mission and model of college sports.
Frank Azzopardi, Partner and Head of Intellectual Property and Commercial Transactions Practice, Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP
Ross Bjork, Senior Vice President and Wolfe Foundation-Eugene Smith Endowed Athletics Director , The Ohio State University
Jonathan Marks, Chief Business Officer, College & Global Marketplace, Elevate
Eric Menell, Managing Director and Co-Head, Media Investment Banking Group, JPMorgan
Drew Weatherford, Founding Partner, Weatherford Capital
9:05 AM
Industry Insights
Presentation: Driving Revenue with Modular Infrastructure
As athletic departments seek new ways to generate revenue and enhance fan experiences, modular infrastructure is gaining traction as a flexible, cost-effective solution. From temporary premium seating and hospitality suites to pop-up training facilities and event spaces, modular design empowers programs to scale operations, test new ideas, and unlock new revenue streams—without long-term capital investments.
This session will explore how forward-thinking athletic departments and their partners are using modular infrastructure to drive growth, increase agility, and meet the evolving demands of fans, athletes, and administrators alike.
Jason Tedrow, CEO, InProduction
9:25 AM
Industry Insights
Exploring Facilities as a Strategic Asset for NIL and Revenue Growth
As college athletics programs face growing demands and limited resources, facilities are emerging as a potential source of alternative revenue. During this session SSC will demonstrate how proactive maintenance, operational efficiency, and elevated facility standards can support student-athlete well-being, enhance fan experience, and create new opportunities for unrestricted NIL support.
Administrators will gain insights into how rethinking fixed costs and leveraging campus infrastructure can contribute to long-term sustainability and competitive advantage.
Seth Ferriell, Executive Chair, SSC Services for Education
Jim Spencer, National Vice President, College Partnerships, SSC Services for Education
9:45 AM
Voices from the Arena: Student-Athletes on the Business of College Sports
As the business of college athletics continues to evolve, student-athletes are no longer just participants; they are central stakeholders. From NIL opportunities and brand-building to academic balance and mental health, today’s athletes are navigating a complex and high-stakes environment both on and off the field.
In this candid session, student-athletes from a range of sports and institutions will share their perspectives on the rapidly changing college sports landscape.
Invited:
Moderator: Dayali Carpenter, Senior. Manager, NIL Growth and Development, Learfield
Jasmine Harris, Women’s Track & Field, University of Nevada
Meredith Page, Assistant Director of Compliance at the University of Illinois, NCAA DI SAAC Chair, NCAA Board of Directors
Brooke Patterson, Women’s Golf, Boise State University
10:15 AM
Break
10:45 AM
The New Pac-12: Leadership, Vision, and the Road Ahead
Once a powerhouse in collegiate athletics, the Pac-12 has faced unprecedented disruption over the past few years. With new leadership, new membership and a new direction, and during a time of significant change across the college sports landscape, the league has taken a blank-slate approach to building a new Pac-12 upon its historic foundation. So, what exactly does that process look like for building a new conference upon a 100-year legacy?
Panelists will examine leadership decisions, media rights partnerships, brand positioning, and the broader implications for conference government and institutional alignment.
Teresa Gould, Commissioner, Pac-12 Conference
Garrett Klassy, Athletic Director, Fresno State University
William Mao, Senior Vice President, Media Rights Consulting, Octagon
Jayathi Y. Murthy, President, Oregon State University
Brad Schwartz, , President, Entertainment, The CW Network
11:25 AM
Balancing the Scales: Olympic Sports, Title IX, and the Business of College Athletics
As college athletics undergoes sweeping financial and structural changes—from NIL and media rights to conference realignment and private investment—Olympic sports and Title IX compliance are facing new pressures. While revenue-generating sports drive much of the conversation, non-revenue and gender-equity sports remain essential to the mission and identity of collegiate athletics.
This session will explore how shifting business models are impacting Olympic sports programs and Title IX obligations. Panelists will discuss strategies for preserving broad-based athletic opportunities, ensuring compliance, and reimagining sustainable models that support both equity and excellence.
Bob Bowlsby, Member, Knight Commissioner
Gabe Feldman, Sher Garner Professor of Sports Law and Paul and Abram B. Barron Professor of Law Associate Provost NCAA Compliance, Director Sports Law Program and Co-Director, Center for Sport, Tulane University
Martin Jarmond, Athletic Director, University of California, Los Angeles
Jessica Mendoza, Television Analyst, ESPN; former Olympic medalist and Softball All-American
12:05 PM
Lunch
1:25 PM
What’s Next for College Basketball?
College basketball is at a pivotal crossroads. With shifting media rights, NIL dynamics, the transfer portal, and evolving pathways to the pros, the sport is undergoing rapid transformation—on and off the court. As fan expectations change and the business model adapts, what will define success in the next era of college hoops? Panelists will explore the future of college basketball from a business and operational lens.
Val Ackerman, Commissioner, Big East Conference
Greg Byrne, Athletic Director, University of Alabama
Nick Dawson, Senior Vice President, College Sports Programming & Acquisitions, ESPN
Dan Gavitt, Senior Vice President, Basketball, NCAA
2:05 PM
One-on-One with UNC’s Erin Matson: Redefining the Coaching Playbook
UNC’s Erin Matson made history as the youngest head coach to win a national title. Hear how she’s challenging norms, inspiring athletes, and building a winning culture—just months after trading her jersey for a whistle.
Erin Matson, Field Hockey Coach, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
2:25 PM
One-on-One with Cody Campbell: A Path to a Sustainable Future for All College Athletes
College athletics stands at a crossroads. With mounting legal pressures, evolving governance structures, and economic uncertainty, the future of college sports hangs in the balance. In this exclusive one-on-one session, Cody Campbell—Texas Tech alumnus, entrepreneur, and influential donor— shares his “Saving College Sports” plan—addressing legal clarity, governance reform, and economic opportunity—to ensure a sustainable future for all college athletes.
Cody Campbell, Campbell, Founder, Saving College Sports
2:45 PM
The New Front Office: Inside the Role of the College GM
As college athletics evolves into a more complex and commercial enterprise, a new leadership model is emerging: the College General Manager. Once exclusive to professional sports, the GM role is now being adapted to meet the demands of roster management, NIL strategy, recruiting operations, and program sustainability.
This session will explore how athletic departments are rethinking their organizational structures to include GM-style roles that blend business acumen with competitive strategy.
Rachel Baker, General Manager, Men’s Basketball, Duke University
Michael Lombardi, General Manager, Football, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Ron Rivera, General Manager, Football, University of California, Berkeley
3:25 PM
Break
3:55 PM
MODULE: DRIVING REVENUE GENERATION FROM IN AND AROUND YOUR VENUE (1 hour)
This module explores innovative strategies and proven practices for maximizing revenue from college sports venues. From infrastructure and technology to pre-game and premium experiences as well as non-game day activation, each session offers actionable insights for athletic administrators and facility leaders.
Session #1 - Premium Potential: Maximizing Stadium Renovations Through Fan-Centered Design and Phased Selling
Discover how the University of Kansas and Legends generated $187M in capital commitments through innovative premium seating strategies tied to a $450M stadium renovation. This session explores how fan input, market research, and phased selling unlocked new revenue streams and elevated the game day experience. Learn how to align donor engagement, dynamic pricing, and space design to drive results—and why premium seating may be your most powerful tool for long-term growth.
Jason Booker, Deputy Athletics Director, External Affairs and Revenue Generation, University of Kansas
Tim Statezni, Executive Vice President, College, Legends Global
Session #2 - Fan Engagement and Revenue Generation Technology
Discover how Oklahoma Athletics collaborated with Learfield's Paciolan, SIDEARM Sports, and Amplify to implement cutting-edge technology that enhances fan engagement, leverages data insights, and drives new revenue streams. This session offers practical takeaways for administrators looking to modernize their approach to audience connection and financial growth.
Marcus Bowman, Deputy Athletic Director, Business Development and Revenue Generation, University of Oklahoma
Eric McKenzie, Vice President, College Athletics, Paciolan
Session #3 - Unlocking Game Day Gold: Monetizing Underused Spaces for Revenue & Fan Engagement
This session explores how long-term partnerships and creative thinking can unlock hidden value in underutilized campus assets. From transforming baseball suites into premium football tailgates to reimagining “dead space” with temporary builds, learn how schools like Auburn are maximizing existing infrastructure to create memorable, high-end experiences. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies to identify overlooked spaces, engage partners, and build scalable solutions that enhance game day and beyond.
Wes Day, CEO, RevelXP
Rhett Hobart, Deputy Athletic Director, External Affairs, Auburn University
4:40 PM
Content as Currency: Driving NIL Awareness Through Strategic Storytelling
As NIL opportunities expand, schools are investing in content creation to elevate athlete visibility and drive brand engagement. From social media campaigns to video storytelling, athletic departments are building platforms that empower student-athletes and attract sponsors.
This session will explore how institutions are leveraging content to support NIL education, amplify athlete brands, and position their programs as leaders in the evolving NIL ecosystem.
Logan Hittle, Associate Athletic Director, NIL, The Ohio State University
Caten Hyde, Senior Associate Athletic Director, Creative Development, University of Texas
Grant Jones, Senior Vice President, Content, Learfield
Cara Kaye, Creative Director, Men’s Basketball, Michigan State University
Will Pleasants, Managing Director, U.S. and Mexico, Wasserman
5:20 PM
Industry Insights
From College Athlete to Global Superstar: Inside WWE’s Talent Pipeline
We will take an exclusive look into WWE’s innovative talent recruitment and development strategy. This session will explore how former college athletes transition into global entertainment icons, offering insights into WWE’s scouting process, performance development, and brand-building approach.
Attendees will hear firsthand stories of transformation, resilience, and reinvention—providing valuable takeaways for sports administrators looking to expand their understanding of athlete career pathways beyond traditional sports.
Shawn Michaels, Senior Vice President, Talent Development, WWE
5:40 PM
Closing Remarks
5:45 PM
