CLEVELAND – Learfield and MOAA Announce 2025 EDGE Academy Cohort

Learfield, the leading media and technology company powering college athletics, in partnership with the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA), proudly announces the return of its annual EDGE (Empowering Diversity Growth & Equity) Academy. This year's program will again feature a dynamic blend of virtual and in-person experiences beginning this fall.

The EDGE Academy is designed to accelerate professional growth for minorities working on the business side of college athletics. Through curated programming, participants gain access to industry leaders, skill-building sessions, and networking opportunities that foster long-term success.

The EDGE Academy Selection Committee, comprised of representatives from Learfield and MOAA, has chosen the following individuals for the 2025 cohort:

• Cimone Austin, Morgan State University
• Zachary Boyd, University of Dayton
• Cameron Caldwell-Conner, Western Illinois University
• Tony Chung, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Kadaja Cryer, Independent
• Abri Forrest, The Specialized Marketing Group, Inc.
• David Hicklin, Uppermarlboro, MD
• Kendee Hilliard, Missouri Valley Conference
• Diana Houmaidan, Florida International University
• Nylasia Kelly, Leonardtown, MD
• Fachaitte Kinslow, Independent
• Tyrone McNair Jr, Charlotte Football Club
• Quenton Moore, University of Arkansas Pine Bluff
• Alundis Pledge, Tulane University
• Bianca Worthy, California State University–Chico

A Commitment to Inclusion and Growth

"The EDGE Academy continues to be a catalyst for meaningful change in our industry. By equipping talented professionals with the tools and connections they need, we're not just opening doors—we're building pathways for long-term success. Learfield's commitment to this mission is inspiring, and together we're shaping a more inclusive future for college athletics," said Stan Johnson, Executive Director Emeritus of MOAA.

This year's virtual programming will be led by Johnson and Ian Moses, Learfield's Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, alongside leaders from across the collegiate landscape. Sessions will focus on leadership development, sales strategies, technology, marketing, and brand licensing. Participants will also have the option to shadow Learfield team members in person at select partner institutions and affiliated companies.

" This partnership is far more than an initiative; it's a living, breathing commitment to creating real access, growth, and opportunity.  Especially when you consider the ever-changing landscape of collegiate athletics—a space where diverse perspectives are essential for innovation and growth.  I feel incredibly fortunate to work for a company like Learfield that not only values this but is also committed to investing in it," said Ian Moses,SVP of Talent Acquisition and DEI.

About Learfield
Learfield is the leading media and technology company powering college athletics. Through its digital and physical platforms, Learfield owns and leverages a deep data set and relationships in the industry to drive revenue, growth, brand awareness, and fan engagement for brands, sports, and entertainment properties. With ties to over 1,200 collegiate institutions and over 12,000 local and national brand partners, Learfield's presence in college sports and live events delivers influence and maximizes reach to target audiences. With solutions for a 365-day, 24/7 fan experience, Learfield enables schools and brands to connect with fans through licensed merchandise, game ticketing, donor identification for athletic programs, exclusive custom content, innovative marketing initiatives, NIL solutions, and advanced digital platforms. Since 2008, it has served as title sponsor for the acclaimed Learfield Directors' Cup, supporting athletic departments across all divisions.
 

About the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association:
In partnership with the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association promotes equitable employment opportunities for minorities in the athletics industry through the exchange of ideas, the creation of networking opportunities, and the avocation of an increase in employment for minorities in athletics administration positions at all levels of the sports industry. The association also promotes cultivating a sports environment that supports the values necessary to accept aspiring professionals from all walks of life.