Name: Kristi Metz

Position/Institution: Assistant to the Vice President for Marketing & Communication at Samford University

Number of years in your position: 5 years

Alma Mater(s): University of Alabama

Hometown: Birmingham, AL

1. Why did you become involved in ICLA?
I became involved in ICLA a few years ago when I took on the licensing role at Samford University. I was brand new to licensing and wanted to learn as much as I could.
 
2. How has your involvement with ICLA influenced your career?
I've come to love licensing and have learned so many tips from ICLA. I enjoy teaching colleagues and students the importance of the role it plays in higher education and branding as a whole.
 
3. Why/when did you decide to pursue a career in collegiate licensing?
I was asked a few years ago to take on the responsibility of licensing and have loved learning about the world of licensing ever since! I enjoy being able to serve Samford in this important role.

4. What is the biggest challenge to working in a university environment?
The biggest challenge working in a university environment is saying no to bending the rules. I've learned that it's important to stick to the rules 100% and the brand standards. They were created for a reason so we have to follow them.
 
5. What is the most important skill you have developed in your career?
I've truly learned the art of problem solving and not allowing a problem or issue to define my day throughout my career.
 
6. When people come to you for help, what do they usually want help with?
Most of the time, people come to me with branding questions, logo design advice and what vendor they should reach out to for a specific project.
 
7. Who has been the most influential person in your career?
Katie Stripling, Assistant Vice President at Samford. She handles any issue or question that arises with problem solving and gracefully spirit. Thus far, she has been the most influential person in my career.
 
8. Who's your role model and why?
My grandmother is my role model - she didn't have an easy life but you wouldn't know that when talking to her. She's the sweetest, most joyful person.

9. What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
I have received a few good pieces of advice that stick with me.

• It's ok to say no to good things.
• You can't do everything and some seasons call for slower pace.

10. In your opinion, where is collegiate licensing headed in the future?
I think the collegiate licensing will continue to be an important part of the higher landscape. I'm reminded daily the importance of licensing and brand management.

11. If you could choose one (1) amenity to add to the workplace, what would it be?
If I could add any amenity, it would be a nap room because who wouldn't love to grab a cat nap during the day!
 
12. What percentage of your work-week is spent in your office?
75% of my work-week is spent in the office.
 
13. If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, what would you have a good chance at winning a medal for?
I would have a good chance at winning a medal in eating ice cream if it were an Olympic sport.
 
14. What's your favorite quote?
"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I -- I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference." - Robert Frost
 
15. What hobby would you get into if time and money weren't an issue?
If time and money weren't an issue, I would do interior design full time! I love renovating old houses and making them new again- but still leaving the old charm.
 
16. What is your favorite family tradition?
My favorite tradition is wearing matching Christmas pajamas on Christmas morning.
 
17. What are you really good at that might surprise people?
People might be surprised that I am pretty good at playing the guitar.
 
18. If you didn't have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
Work on interior design! I absolutely love creating happy, calming spaces for families.
 
19. What is your biggest pet peeve?
My biggest pet peeve is people complaining. Life's too short to complain!

20. What is your favorite binge-worthy show right now?
I have two children at home so I don't have much free time to watch TV. But I wouldn't have it any other way!