Name: Deborah Dixon
Current Position: Marketing Coordinator
Number of Years in Current Position: 1.5
Conference: Southland
Alma Mater(s): MidAmerica Nazarene University
Twitter Handle: @drdixon20
LinkedIn Address: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-dixon-47597162?trk=hp-identity-photo
When/why did you decide to pursue a career in college athletics?
I decided to pursue college athletics my junior year of college. I started college as an education major, wanting to teach and then be a high school athletic director. I soon found out that teaching was not for me, but wanted to stay in sports. I was appointed as the Director of Pioneer Spirit on Student Government. There I was the student liason for the Athletic Department and the student body. That’s when I found out that I enjoyed hosting events and marketing to the student body.
What is one thing that has surprised you about working in this profession?
Probably all the extra hours that I put in. As a fan you never see exactly what all it takes to really put on a game. You always think that the players just go out there and play and that’s how it works. FYI, it doesn’t work that way if anyone was still thinking that. But it’s fun, I really enjoy what I do and seeing everyones faces at the games when the event comes together.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t just sit back and do nothing. Always be engaged and be willing to put yourself out there. Try something new, and see what you like. You never know if you don’t like something, unless you try.
Who is your role model in this industry and why?
It would probably be Bill McDaniel. He’s the guy that gave me my first full time shot in college athletics, and he still helps me out constantly today. He’s really shown me how to work hard and to always go at things full force.
What are your career aspirations?
I want to be the head of an External Team. I really enjoy everything about external; fan development/engagement, sponsorship, sponsorship activation/fulfillment, and broadcasting.
What has been your most memorable moment on the job?
When I had 1,398 fans at volleyball. We broke the single game attendance record for our Dig Pink game. It was so loud in the gym, and standing room only. The feeling that I got after being at that game is something that can’t be described.
Share one funny moment or story from game day.
Last year we had a guy propose to one of our cheerleader during a performance. She wasn’t paying attention and when she turned around she didn’t notice all the signs saying ‘Will You Marry Me?’ It took her about three turns to finally realize that her boyfriend was down on one knee behind her.
If you weren’t working in college athletics, what would you be doing?
I would probably would have been an event planner for some company.