Welcome to The Brand Academy Summit
During The Penn State Brand Academy Summit, experts from across the university and industry will share tools, insights, and strategies to help you build and enhance your personal and professional brand. No matter your sport, these sessions will equip all student-athletes with the knowledge and confidence to succeed in today’s competitive landscape.
Explore our lineup of sessions designed to help you master key aspects of branding, financial wellness, social media management, legal considerations, and the entrepreneurial mindset. Each session offers valuable takeaways tailored to your unique journey.
Session Information
Be Financially Competent
Location: RM 004
Presented by: Sarah Metzger, Assistant Director of Curriculum & Instruction
Organization: Sokolov-Miller Financial Center
Discover how your underlying attitudes toward money influence your daily financial decisions. If these decisions aren’t aligning with your financial goals, you’ll learn strategies to help you achieve the financial wellness and independence you desire.
Brand Building Strategies
Location: RM 024
Presented by: Lavar Arrington, Founder
Organization: DisruptU
Join DisruptU to learn how to build a personal brand that truly resonates with your audience and enhances your on-screen presence. You’ll recieve practical tips on reading scripts naturally, maintaining eye contact, using the right tone, and staying authentic. By the end, you’ll feel confident in presenting yourself in an engaging and memorable way.
Social Media Presence
Location: RM 030
Presented by: TJ Colaiezzi, CEO & Chuck McHugh, Business Development
Organization: LifeBrand
LifeBrand will discuss the importance of maintaining a positive social media presence and how to protect yourself from posts that could harm your future. You’ll explore why your social media brand is crucial and how to manage it effectively.
Legal & Licensing Matters
Location: RM 023
Presented by: David Giannantonio, Esq., Associate General Counsel & Stephanie Petulla, Director of Licensing and Visual Identity
Organizations: Penn State Office of General Counsel & Penn State Strategic Communications
Representatives from Penn State’s General Counsel and the Strategic Communications Licensing offices will guide you through the key aspects of contracts, ensuring you don’t miss important details. You’ll learn the essentials of Penn State Marks licensing, so you leave with a clear understanding. Bring your questions and gain confidence in navigating contracts and licensing.
Entrepreneurial Mindset
Location: RM Collab Space
Presented by: Matt Garland, CEO
Organization: SPI Media
Explore the fundamentals of starting your own business, from developing a great idea to making it a reality. You’ll hear about practical tips, inspiring stories, and insights into what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur. By the end, you’ll understand your competitive edge, know how to execute your ideas, and feel ready to embark on your entrepreneurial journey.