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Texas Minority Sports Association · UT Austin

Texas Minority
Sports Association

Creating pathways for minority students to engage with the sports industry through networking, exposure, and professional development.

UT Austin

Breaking barriers. Building careers in sports.

We are the Texas Minority Sports Association.
Why TMSA Exists

Closing the gap in sports.

The sports industry generates billions of dollars in economic impact — yet many students from underrepresented backgrounds still lack access to the professional networks, mentorship, and career pathways that make breaking in possible.

TMSA exists to close that gap. We connect ambitious minority students at UT Austin with the people, opportunities, and preparation they need to build lasting careers in the business of sports.

Access

Direct exposure to leaders across professional leagues, agencies, and teams.

Mentorship

One-on-one guidance from working industry professionals through PMP.

Opportunity

Internships, referrals, and full-time pipelines into the sports business.

New This Year

Professional
Mentorship
Program.

We pair industry professionals with a highly motivated, curated group of students to tackle real-world sports problems across DEI, analytics, business, operations, marketing, and more.

DEISports AnalyticsBusinessOperationsMarketing
TMSA Professional Mentorship Program
Professional Mentorship Program

2026–2027
Mentors.

Elena Chung
ImageShe/Her

Elena Chung

Manager, Partnership Activation, Cleveland Browns
2026–2027 Professional Mentor & Career Advisor

Elena Chung is a high-impact sports marketing and partnership executive with a proven track record of innovating the sports and entertainment experience. Currently serving as the Manager of Partnership Activation for the Cleveland Browns, Elena specializes in turning corporate sponsorships into meaningful, community-minded platforms—from driving sustainability in stadium operations to leading high-profile initiatives supporting active-duty military and veterans.

Prior to joining the Browns, Elena served as the Manager of Partnership Marketing & Activation with the Cleveland Cavaliers, where she led a strategic team delivering top-tier value to corporate partners, and as Manager of Hospitality at Genesco Sports Enterprises in Seattle, managing major brand activations for clients like T-Mobile.

Education

B.S. in Sport Management with a minor in Media and Entertainment Industries from The University of Texas at Austin (Proud Texas Ex! 🤘)

Advisory & Leadership

Board Member, Ashland University Customer Experience Advisory Program; Active member supporting women in sports leadership.

Core Competencies
  • Sports Marketing & Sponsorship Strategy
  • Strategic Partnerships & Account Management
  • Event Activation, Hospitality & Ticketing Management
  • Cross-Functional Team Leadership & Process Optimization
Nicole Mayberry
ImageShe/Her

Nicole Mayberry

Community Relations and PR Lead, PGA of America; Adjunct Professor, Southern Methodist University
2026–2027 Professional Mentor

Nicole Mayberry is a dynamic communications strategist and community leader with over 15 years of experience driving high-impact PR, strategic marketing, and corporate partnership activations. As the Community Relations and PR Lead at the PGA of America, Nicole plays a key role in connecting the home of golf to the broader community in Frisco, Texas, elevating high-profile championship events, and introducing diverse audiences to the sport through immersive experience-driven initiatives.

A passionate advocate for education and civic engagement, Nicole also serves as an Adjunct Professor at Southern Methodist University (SMU), where she teaches Advanced Sports PR in the Applied Physiology and Sport Management program, mentoring the next generation of sports business professionals. Before taking on her leadership role at the PGA of America, Nicole managed strategic resort marketing for the Omni PGA Frisco Resort, oversaw multi-million-dollar national brand partnerships at Topgolf, and led corporate relations and major community event activations for Children’s Health in the DFW metroplex.

Education

B.A. in Journalism & Advertising and M.A. in Liberal Studies (Media, Communication & Technology) from Southern Methodist University (Pony Up! 🐎)

Advisory & Leadership

Nominated for Frisco Chamber of Commerce Employee of the Year; Selected for the prestigious Leaders Club (Dallas Chapter).

Core Competencies
  • Community Relations & Public Relations Strategy
  • Sports Marketing, Sponsorship Development & Activation
  • High-Profile Event Planning & Brand Activation
  • Corporate Social Responsibility & Community Engagement
  • Media Relations & Crisis Communications
Lindell Galvan
ImageShe/Her

Lindell Galvan

Senior Account Manager, Octagon
2026–2027 Professional Mentor

Lindell Galvan is a goal-driven sports marketing leader who brings passion, grit, and authenticity to building high-impact brand partnerships and experiential marketing activations. As a Senior Account Manager at Octagon, Lindell plays an integral role in driving global event execution and client strategy—most notably leading experiential activation initiatives for The Home Depot across North American host cities during major global sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

A first-generation college graduate originally from the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, Lindell brings a diverse perspective and a relentless commitment to professional development, financial literacy, and collaborative teamwork. Prior to her current role at Octagon, she built a strong foundation across sports business, hospitality, client relations, and brand strategy through client-facing roles in New York City, including experiences with Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp., On Location, and VOLO.

Education

Dual Degree B.B.A. in Finance (Texas McCombs School of Business) and B.S. in Sport Management from The University of Texas at Austin (Proud Texas Ex! 🤘)

Advisory & Leadership

Active member of Octagon's ID Council and SOMOS (Hispanic/Latino Heritage Group); former Fellow for the Center of Sports Leadership and Innovation.

Core Competencies
  • Sports Sponsorships & Partnership Strategy
  • On-Site Activation & Experiential Marketing
  • Global Events & VIP Hospitality Management
  • Client Relations & Project Management
Krystin King
ImageShe/Her

Krystin King

Senior Director of Marketing, Frisco RoughRiders
2026–2027 Professional Mentor

Krystin King is an experienced, creative marketing leader in professional sports, currently serving as the Senior Director of Marketing for the Frisco RoughRiders (the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers). Having spent over eight years advancing through the organization, Krystin oversees the brand strategy, digital campaigns, promotional schedules, creative content, and game-day fan experiences that keep Riders Field vibrant and engaging for fans across North Texas.

Throughout her tenure with the RoughRiders, Krystin has spearheaded creative campaigns that gained national attention—including bringing team activations to SportsCenter and producing game broadcasts aired on MLB Network. She is especially passionate about youth engagement and community outreach, leading initiatives like the team's Kids Club to record-breaking growth and managing local partnership activations. Deeply invested in mentorship, Krystin also serves as a mentor in the MiLB Women in Baseball Mentorship Program, helping empower the next generation of sports business professionals.

Education

B.S. in Sport and Fitness Administration/Management from Western Kentucky University (Recipient of the prestigious Scholar of the College Award)

Advisory & Leadership

Mentor, MiLB Women in Baseball Mentorship Program; Guest speaker for sports industry student organizations.

Core Competencies
  • Sports Marketing & Brand Strategy
  • Social Media & Digital Content Execution
  • Promotional Scheduling & Special Event Campaigns
  • Youth Fan Engagement & Kids Club Management
  • Creative Direction (Adobe Creative Suite)
Steven Marino
ImageHe/Him

Steven Marino

Senior Director, Sales Development, Washington Wizards (Monumental Sports & Entertainment)
2026–2027 Professional Mentor

Steven Marino is a seasoned sports sales leader and culture builder with over a decade of experience driving revenue growth, developing sales talent, and executing high-value ticket and premium seating strategies. As the Senior Director of Sales Development for the Washington Wizards, Steven leads sales development teams under Monumental Sports & Entertainment, overseeing performance, driving new business strategy, and establishing record-breaking revenue milestones for the franchise.

Steven is known for his commitment to talent development, mentorship, and fostering a high-performance culture. Prior to joining the Wizards in 2022, he built an extensive career in venue and ticket sales across major sports markets. His previous roles include managing premium sales for Legends Global Sales at SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park in Los Angeles, driving premium seating for Comcast Spectacor in Philadelphia, and leading ticket sales consulting with The Aspire Group.

Education

B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Business, Communications, & Sport Management) from the University of Arizona; M.S. in Sport Management from Western Michigan University

Advisory & Leadership

Leadership Focus: Sales team mentorship, culture building, account executive recruitment, and internal promotion strategy.

Core Competencies
  • Revenue Generation & Strategic Sales Development
  • Premium Seating & Group Hospitality Strategy
  • Talent Management, Coaching & Professional Mentorship
  • Pipeline Optimization & Performance Analytics
Alex Martinez
He/Him

Alex Martinez

Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Marlex Advisory; Executive Search Partner, Creative Talent Endeavors
2026–2027 Professional Mentor

Alex Martinez is a global talent transformation executive, leadership advisor, and executive search partner with extensive experience translating organizational strategies into high-performing workforce systems. As the Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Marlex Advisory and an Executive Search Partner with Creative Talent Endeavors, Alex partners with CEOs, CHROs, and senior leadership teams across the sports, retail, CPG, and quick-service restaurant (QSR) sectors to navigate pivotal moments of growth, organizational transition, and strategic reinvention.

Throughout his career, Alex has designed and executed talent acquisition, leadership development, and equity strategies for major global brands—including Nike, Pepsico, Walmart, Yum! Brands (Pizza Hut), and Deloitte Consulting. At Nike, he served as Senior Director of Sports Partnerships & Talent Innovation Programs, where he launched high-profile talent initiatives in collaboration with athlete transition programs (WNBA, NFL Player Care Foundation) and signature athlete design crews. A first-generation college graduate, Alex is deeply committed to expanding diversity in sports leadership and serves on the board and advisory councils for the Dallas Wings Champions of Change committee and the Association for the Advancement of Latinos in Sports.

Education

B.A. in Economics from The University of Texas at Austin; M.B.A. in Strategy, Decision & Marketing Analytics from Emory University (Goizueta Business School)

Advisory & Leadership

Senior Faculty Member at The Josh Bersin Company; Contributor to McKinsey & Company’s landmark research on the economic power of Latino fandom in professional sports.

Core Competencies
  • Executive Search & Global Talent Acquisition
  • Strategic People & Workforce Strategy
  • Sports Partnerships & Talent Innovation Programs
  • Organizational Design, Succession Planning & Change Management
  • Leadership Coaching & Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Strategy
Brianna Lester
ImageShe/Her

Brianna Lester

Manager, Premium Service, Las Vegas Raiders
2026–2027 Professional Mentor

Brianna (Bri) Lester is an accomplished sports business leader operating at the intersection of premium account strategy, fan experience, and relationship management. As Manager of Premium Service for the Las Vegas Raiders, Brianna leads retention and high-touch strategy for a portfolio of over 2,300 Personal Seat License (PSL) Members, driving partner engagement, long-term loyalty, and revenue in one of the world's most dynamic sports and entertainment markets.

A former two-sport Division I athlete in basketball and volleyball, Brianna brings a unique dual perspective to her front-office career, understanding both athlete development and the business of sports. Her professional footprint spans high-profile event operations, including leading VIP guest experiences for Super Bowls LVIII and LIX with Populous, along with brand activations across the NFL, WNBA, and collegiate athletics. Brianna is a passionate advocate for representation and community impact, serving as a panelist, moderator, and speaker at major industry forums including the Sportsimist Summit, the Black Sports Business Symposium, and the White House celebration for National Black Women in Sports Day.

Education

B.S. in Sport Administration from the University of Louisville; M.Ed. in Higher Education (Intercollegiate & Professional Sports) from UNLV

Advisory & Leadership

Former D1 Student-Athlete (Louisville/Pepperdine); Pass the Torch Mentor with Athletes in Leadership; Panel Speaker & Moderator across sports business platforms.

Core Competencies
  • Premium Account Strategy & High-Touch Retention
  • VIP Hospitality & Major Event Operations (Super Bowl, Pro Bowl)
  • Relationship Management & Client Experience Strategy
  • Community Engagement & Athlete Transition Frameworks
  • Cross-Functional Leadership & Operational Scaling
About

Sports Business. Minority-Led. UT Austin.

Mission

Build a pipeline for minority students into professional sports and sports-adjacent companies.

Focus

Networking, guest speakers, career development, and real-world exposure to the industry.

Community

Students who want to learn, connect, and take action toward sports careers.

What We Do

The Playbook.

01

Network

Connect with sports executives and industry leaders across leagues and organizations.
02

Learn

Guest speakers and panels with professionals in partnerships, marketing, operations, and analytics.
03

Advance

Resume support, internship strategy, and practical skill-building sessions.
Events

On the Calendar.

Speaker Series
Guest Speaker

Speaker Series

Tues., Apr. 14 — Jose Garcia, Manager of Fan Growth at the Dallas Cowboys. 6:00–7:00 PM on Zoom.

Austin FC x TMSA
Recap

Austin FC x TMSA

Members toured Q2 Stadium and met with Austin FC staff across departments to learn about roles in operations, marketing, and community.

Workshops
Workshop

Workshops

Career prep sessions: outreach, interviews, sponsorship basics, and portfolio building.

The Legacy Table
Event

The Legacy Table

An evening honoring legacy, community, and the future of minority leadership in sports.

Where They're At

Our members, in the industry.

From UT Austin to front offices across the country — here's where TMSA members are working.

Landon Pinales
LearfieldLearfield

Landon Pinales

Class of 2026 · Sports Management · Dallas, TX
Corporate Partnerships Management Intern
Learfield
"I joined TMSA to help minority students connect & succeed in the sports industry, where representation and paths are limited."
Julia Garcia
San Antonio Spurs & EntertainmentSan Antonio Spurs & Entertainment

Julia Garcia

Class of 2026 · Kinesiology · Harlingen, TX
Game Crew — Game Presentation
San Antonio Spurs & Entertainment
"Representation matters in sports, and TMSA provides the network and opportunities we need to represent our communities."
Emily Escareno
Kansas City ChiefsKansas City Chiefs

Emily Escareno

Class of 2026 · Public Relations · Houston, TX
Community Outreach Seasonal Assistant
Kansas City Chiefs
"Breaking into the sports industry can be challenging & I believe TMSA's mission is significant. I'd love to help students break those barriers."
Featured Industry Speakers

Learning from the people building the industry.

Houston Rockets
Oklahoma City Thunder
Chicago Bulls
Philadelphia 76ers
Washington Wizards
Dallas Cowboys
Las Vegas Raiders
FIFA World Cup 2026
PGA of America
USTA
Atlético de Madrid
Major League Baseball
Frisco RoughRiders
Texas Rangers
Texas Legends
NASCAR
Nike
Octagon
Austin FC
Cleveland Browns
Houston Rockets
Oklahoma City Thunder
Chicago Bulls
Philadelphia 76ers
Washington Wizards
Dallas Cowboys
Las Vegas Raiders
FIFA World Cup 2026
PGA of America
USTA
Atlético de Madrid
Major League Baseball
Frisco RoughRiders
Texas Rangers
Texas Legends
NASCAR
Nike
Octagon
Austin FC
Cleveland Browns
Board of Directors

Meet the
Team.

Aristoteles Cortes-Loera

Aristoteles Cortes-Loera

Co-Founder & President

A junior Neuroscience major from Frisco, Texas, with minors in Business, Statistics, and Data Science, he has experience interning with the Dallas Wings (WNBA) as a Community & Foundation Intern, working alongside global sports agency Octagon on the FIFA World Cup 2026 as a Marketing Intern, and leading student initiatives within the sports industry and global brands.

He is passionate about creating opportunities for students through mentorship, networking, and professional development. He oversees program strategy, mentor partnerships, and overall program operations.

Ollivia Mayberry

Ollivia Mayberry

Co-Founder & Vice President

Senior Communication major at UT Austin and a multifaceted digital storyteller specializing in sports media and wellness marketing. She is the Co-Founder, Social Media Director, and Vice President of the Texas Minority Sports Association, where she drives the digital footprint and organizational strategy to help minority students secure careers in sports.

Alongside her leadership with TMSA, Ollivia captures live game-day content for Texas Studios (Texas Athletics), interns with Texas Creative, and creates content for Rebel Athletic and the Kendra Scott Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute. Highly skilled in brand alignment and multi-platform media production, Ollivia is passionate about creating visual experiences that elevate communities and brands alike.

Sofia Vega

Sofia Vega

PR & Marketing Director

A junior Advertising major from San Antonio, Texas, she brings a keen creative eye and a strong skillset to push the new vision of Texas Minority Sports Association forward as PR & Marketing Lead for her second year. She has experience driving brand identity by designing TMSA's bold, UT Austin-inspired logo, capturing match action on the photography team for UT Austin Club Tennis, and showcasing one of the largest club sports organizations on the 40 Acres.

She is passionate about blending creative strategy with sports culture to elevate the organization's presence across campus. She oversees public relations, digital marketing strategy, social media, and media content for the association.

Chris Jaiyesimi

Chris Jaiyesimi

Event Operations & Recruitment Director

A junior Government major from Frisco, Texas, with a minor in Analytics & Business of Sports, he brings hands-on experience in high-level sports management and collegiate athletics to the Texas Minority Sports Association. He currently serves as a Recruiting Operations Events Intern for Texas Football, gaining direct operational experience with one of the top programs in the country, while also serving on the NBLSA Executive Board and as a Heman Sweatt Center Ambassador.

He is passionate about driving strategy at the intersection of sports, operations, and leadership to empower students on campus. He oversees event execution, recruitment initiatives, and overall logistics for the organization.

Anna Martinez

Anna Martinez

Event Operations & Recruitment Director

A Corporate Communications and Communication Studies major from Dallas, Texas, she brings infectious energy, strong organizational drive, and a passion for community building to the Texas Minority Sports Association. She plays a pivotal role in shaping the spirit of TMSA, working tirelessly behind the scenes to cultivate an inclusive, high-energy environment where every student feels valued from the moment they step through the door.

She is passionate about creating seamless event experiences and fostering authentic connections among members. She oversees event logistics, recruitment strategy, and member onboarding to ensure the organization continues to grow and thrive.

Myrron McGee

Myrron McGee

Finance Director

An Exercise Science major with a minor in Health Communication from Midland, Texas, she brings strong organizational leadership, analytical skills, and a background in real estate leasing and marketing to the Texas Minority Sports Association. On the Pre-Physical Therapy track at UT Austin, she blends her passion for athletics, movement, and business management to keep TMSA's operations running seamlessly.

She is passionate about ensuring the financial health of the organization and opening doors for minority students aiming to break into the sports industry. She oversees budget allocation, financial planning, and fundraising initiatives as the financial driver behind TMSA's programs and events.

Leo Hinojosa

Leo Hinojosa

Development Director

A Sport Management major from La Joya, Texas, he returns for his second year as Development Director for the Texas Minority Sports Association. He brings a deep analytical and operational sports background, having served as a Video and Analytics Intern for Texas Women's Basketball and a Basketball Analyst for Full Court Analytics, combining tactical knowledge with a drive for industry growth.

He is passionate about creating sustainable career pipelines and connecting UT Austin students with impactful industry opportunities. He oversees corporate partnerships, professional development initiatives, and alumni engagement to expand TMSA's network across the sports business landscape.

Christopher Corona

Christopher Corona

Development Director

A freshman Journalism major from San Antonio, Texas, he joins the Texas Minority Sports Association board as Development Director, bringing a fresh perspective, strong storytelling instincts, and the energy of the upcoming Longhorn sports class. Eager to shape a bold new vision for TMSA, he leverages his media background and passion for sports coverage to expand the association's reach and impact early in his collegiate career.

He is passionate about opening doors for incoming minority students and building lasting connections across the sports industry. He assists in driving fundraising efforts, cultivating brand partnerships, and expanding professional development opportunities for members.

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Partners

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