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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 

2024 Impact Highlights 

In 2024, the Brand Academy broadened its reach through dynamic programming and campus partnerships, including: 

  • The Digital TestLab, Content Creator Cohort with Happy Valley LaunchBox powered by PNC Bank 
  • The inaugural Lions to Leaders Symposium and Brand Academy Summit 
  • Community and student engagement through summer bridge programs, classroom sessions, and local outreach 
  • Collaborations with the Bellisario College of Communications and the Sokolov-Miller Financial Center 

These efforts underscore the Brand Academy’s commitment to developing student-athletes as leaders on and off the field. 

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.  

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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

Omar X. Easy, Ph.D.
Assistant AD, The Brand Academy
Email: oxe104@psu.edu
Phone: 814-308-4441

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.