CORAL GABLES, Fla. – University of Miami Athletics announced Thursday the Class of 2024-25 for the UStrive Leadership Program.
This is the second year of the UStrive Leadership Program, which was created to help develop leaders within the department through a nine-month curriculum designed to explore issues and opportunities in the college athletics space.
“After graduating our first class in May of 2024, we’re excited and proud to continue the UStrive Leadership Program for a second year in 2024-2025,” said Matt Smale, Executive Associate Athletic Director, Business Operations. “It shows a commitment to developing our talented staff members and we’ve identified another group of individuals who are eager to better themselves and our athletic department.”
The program’s curriculum includes topics such as leadership, communications, recruiting and hiring, resource management and sport administration, among many others. The program also features guest speakers from sports industry leaders, South Florida business leaders and UM faculty and staff.
“The UStrive Leadership Program aims to boost collaboration, engagement, and business acumen to prepare identified staff for future roles in Miami’s athletic department,” said Nate Taylor, Senior Human Resources Manager, Athletics. “The program provides existing talent with real-time development opportunities within the dynamic industry of collegiate athletics.”
This year’s class includes:
- Lesli Alvarado-Diosdado, Director, Facilities, Events, & Operations
- John Cantalupo, Associate AD, Business Operations
- Maryellen Carrigan, Olympic Sports Nutrition Coordinator
- Jessica Hurley, Associate Director, Student-Athlete Development
- Adam Jensen, Director, Development
- Taylor Lynn, Director, Revenue Generation, Marketing, & Analytics
- Demi Rafuls, Associate Director, Development Initiatives
- Leo Ramos, Director, Brand Marketing
- Evan Roberts, Associate AD, Head of NIL & Digital
