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The Brand Academy & NIL

Empowering Student-Athletes Today. Preparing Leaders for Tomorrow.

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Mission & Vision

The Brand Academy empowers Penn State student-athletes to build authentic, lasting personal brands through education, mentorship, and hands-on experiences.

We provide access to high-impact programming that strengthens leadership, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurial confidence—focusing on personal brand development, social media presence, financial literacy, and media training.

The Brand Academy also fosters valuable connections with alumni, industry leaders, and the broader Penn State community to help student-athletes achieve long-term success beyond their time on campus.

Shop Your Nittany Lions

Engage in NIL opportunities with Penn State student-athletes through Athletes Thread for player merch, ONIT for officially licensed trading cards, or INFLCR Marketplace!

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Officially licensed Penn State student-athlete merchandise

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Officially licensed Penn State trading cards

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Penn State student-athlete business opportunities

Kalea McElligot Brand Academy Spotlight

Student Athlete Spotlight

Kalea McElligot

Women's Gymnastics | JR | Massapequa, N.Y.

“I started working with The Brand Academy to grow and strengthen my personal brand in a way that is authentic to me. As a gymnast, I’ve always been passionate about hard work, dedication, and pushing myself to improve every day. Through this experience, I’ve been able to explore how those values translate beyond the gym and into building a meaningful and genuine brand.

My goal is to create a brand that reflects not only my journey as an athlete but also my lifestyle, personality, and the things I care about outside of gymnastics. I want people to see the full, authentic picture of training, competing, everyday life, and the moments in between that shape who I am.

So far, The Brand Academy has allowed me to connect with brands and obtain opportunities that value authenticity and individuality. I’m excited to continue growing my platform, sharing my journey, and building partnerships with brands that align with who I am.”

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More About The Brand Academy

Empowering Student-Athletes to Create, Innovate, and Dominate 

The Penn State Brand Academy is a comprehensive program designed to empower student-athletes with the knowledge and skills to cultivate personal brands, navigate endorsement opportunities, and explore entrepreneurial ventures. The Brand Academy is committed to creating a culture that encourages, nurtures, and rewards innovation—ensuring Penn State student-athletes have the tools to create, innovate, and dominate in the collegiate space and beyond. 

Through educational programming and strategic support, the Brand Academy focuses on: 

  • Personal branding, now and in the future
  • Entrepreneurship and financial competency
  • Navigating endorsement opportunities 

A Legacy Gift, A Lasting Impact 

The Brand Academy was made possible through the Wally Triplett Brand Academy Endowment, a transformative $2.5 million anonymous gift honoring the legacy of one of Penn State’s trailblazing student-athletes. Read more about the gift.  

Events
Events

Brand Academy events bring student-athletes together with campus partners, alumni, and industry leaders to explore branding, leadership, and innovation. Each event is crafted to inspire connections, spark creativity, and build confidence in real-world settings.

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Programs
Programs

Brand Academy programs provide structured learning experiences that help student-athletes build personal brands, develop entrepreneurial mindsets, and gain financial and endorsement literacy. These offerings are designed to support long-term success during college and beyond.

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The Brand Academy Team

Dr. Omar X. Easy Opens in a new window

Dr. Omar X. Easy Opens in a new window

Assistant AD for the Brand Academy Opens in a new window
Amelia Drexford Opens in a new window

Amelia Drexford Opens in a new window

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How to Get Involved

Interested in engaging with the Penn State Brand Academy? Contact Dr. Omar X. Easy, Director, at oxe104@psu.edu to learn more. 

To explore giving opportunities in support of the Brand Academy, please reach out to Alyssa Francona, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Advancement, at alyssa.francona@psu.edu.