Taylor Blakely has joined the High Point University Athletic Department as Director of Marketing, Athletic Director Craig Keilitz announced on Tuesday. Blakely most recently was Assistant Director of Marketing at Ohio University.
“With his varied experiences, we feel that Taylor will be a tremendous addition to our staff,” said Keilitz. “We have a lot of momentum with the energy on campus and in the High Point community. We’ll look for Taylor to help push that forward by promoting our events, reaching out to the community and providing a great experience for fans.”
Blakely will be charged with generating interest and awareness for all of HPU’s 16 teams and maximizing attendance at HPU’s home events. He will develop and implement marketing plans, will manage game-day promotions and fan experience initiatives. Blakely will also work with the Panther Club and help manage special events.
“It is a very exciting time to be joining the staff here at High Point University with the growth of the university and athletic department,” said Blakely. “I am thrilled and would like to thank Craig Keilitz and everyone involved for this opportunity.”
Blakely worked with the marketing and promotions team at Ohio University during the 2012-13 season, where the department set several milestones. The Bobcats showed a 53 percent increase in season ticket holders in basketball and a 35 percent increase in football. Blakely oversaw marketing for the volleyball team, which had the best attendance in the Mid-American Conference and ranked in the top 25, nationally.
In addition, Blakely headed several special events and initiatives and oversaw 15 interns at Ohio.
Prior to Ohio, Blakely worked at the University of Detroit Mercy as Athletic Administration Intern. He aided with promotions, advertising and marketing of all UDM sporting events with a focus on women’s basketball. He also processed gifts, managed ticket operations and assisted in community outreach with the Titans.
Blakely earned his undergraduate degree in Physical Education with a concentration in Sport Communication from Mississippi State and earned his master’s degree in Sport and Entertainment Management at the University of South Carolina. He worked as marketing intern in both athletic departments while receiving his degrees.
In addition, Blakely gained experience as a summer intern at the College World Series of Omaha, Inc., and with Gamecock Sports Properties in 2009.