Name: Katie Spiro
Current Position: Assistant Director of Fan Experience & Promotions, Liberty University Athletics
Number of Years in Current Position: 1 Year
Conference: Big South Conference
Alma Mater(s): Gardner-Webb University; Political Science & Broadcast Journalism (May, 2014), Gardner-Webb University; MBA (Expected: December, 2016)
Twitter Handle: @KatieSpiro
LinkedIn Address: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-spiro-50670a53
When/why did you decide to pursue a career in college athletics?
On March 25, 2010, I signed my NLI to compete in D-I track & field at Gardner-Web University. Due to my academic merits coupled with my track & field accolades, I was able to graduate from college 100% debt-free. Due to this enormous financial blessing, athletics gave me the freedom to pursue whatever career passion I desired. Thus, when the opportunity to continue being part of college athletics arose, it was an automatic.
What is one thing that has surprised you about working in this profession?
As a former student-athlete, I always assumed my SID, SWA and compliance officer were the only persons who really kept tabs on my athletic career. Being on “the other side” now, I now understand that there is a staff of 100+ who are constantly aware, fighting for, and supporting student-athletes. After my first few months on the job, I realized that I had no idea how many folks were on my side.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
“There is no traffic jam on the extra mile.”
“Make their student-athlete experience better than your own.”
Who is your role model in this industry and why?
I am enormously grateful for the guidance I have been given from my past and present athletic department leaders, as well as the NACMA board. To be honest, however, I am too fresh in this industry to know which industry leader’s path or personality I prefer vs. another great leaders path or personality.
What are your career aspirations?
God, family, career. In that order.
What has been your most memorable moment on the job?
When I was Director of Marketing & Promotions at Gardner-Webb, we hosted the largest WBB crowd in program history for “Education Day.” 3,225 students (3rd-8th grade), 66 buses, and 21 schools later—the success of that atmosphere, post-game survey, and the likelihood that +50% of those kids had never seen a college campus may be one of the most rewarding feelings I have ever experienced.
Share one funny moment or story from game day.
Back in February 2015, I had the great idea to “marry” our male and female mascots during half-time of a women’s basketball game. Our female mascot (former cheerleader) was running late… so yours truly had to put on the suit and get married for the first time. I never did receive the paperwork, so it doesn’t count…right?
If you weren’t working in college athletics, what would you be doing?
I would be serving in the U.S. Navy, likely serving at the Naval Air Station in Sigonella, Italy.