Closing Keynote Address: National Championships, Student Entrepreneurship and Academic "Creatorship": Taking NIL to the Next Level

Jason Butikofer – University of Connecticut Athletics
David Noble – University of Connecticut
Nick Bayer - Saxby’s Coffee
Bill Guerrero - University of Bridgeport

National championships have long been a focal point for college athletes, but the evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) is now providing student-athletes with unprecedented opportunities beyond the field. Combining student entrepreneurship and academic "creatorship" with NIL can elevate it to the next level, allowing athletes to not only build personal brands but also develop entrepreneurial ventures rooted in their academic disciplines. With support from universities and partnerships with industries, student-athletes can harness their creativity and business acumen, transforming NIL into a launchpad for future careers. This fusion of athletic achievement, entrepreneurship, and academic innovation positions student-athletes as leaders in both sports and the business world, bridging the gap between athletics and long-term professional success.

Learning Objectives

1. Explain how NIL provides new opportunities for student-athletes beyond athletic achievement.
2. Identify ways universities and industries can collaborate to help student-athletes succeed in both sports and business.
3. Discuss how student-athletes can leverage their skills in sports, business, and academics to become leaders in multiple fields.

CPE Available

• 1 Credit: Specialized Knowledge