Graduate Assistant, Athletic Communications

The University of Evansville, a member of the Missouri Valley Conference, invites applications for the position of Graduate Assistant, Athletic Communications. This position provides an outstanding opportunity for an aspiring communications professional to gain hands-on experience in NCAA Division I athletics while pursuing a graduate degree.

The Graduate Assistant serves as the primary athletic communications contact for assigned sports and assists with all aspects of media relations, strategic communications, content creation, statistical reporting, and brand development. The successful candidate will help promote Purple Aces Athletics through innovative storytelling, media engagement, and digital communications initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

The Graduate Assistant will support the Athletic Communications Office through a variety of media relations, content creation, and game day responsibilities.

Athletic Communications & Media Relations

• Serve as the primary athletic communications contact for assigned sports programs.
• Coordinate all aspects of media relations, including press releases, feature stories, game notes, statistical reports, and media coverage.
• Manage media requests and coordinate interviews and press opportunities for coaches and student-athletes.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with coaches, student-athletes, media representatives, and campus stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Missouri Valley Conference and NCAA offices regarding statistical reporting, awards nominations, and record maintenance.

Content Creation & Brand Development

• Develop compelling written, graphic, and digital content that promotes student-athletes, coaches, and athletic programs.
• Assist with social media strategy and content creation for assigned sports.
• Collaborate with coaches and staff to create engaging in-season and off-season storytelling initiatives.
• Create and distribute content that enhances the visibility and brand of Purple Aces Athletics.
• Assist with website updates and management of athletics communications platforms.

Statistics & Event Coverage

• Coordinate game statistics and statistical reporting using NCAA Live Stats and other athletic software platforms.
• Maintain accurate rosters, biographies, statistics, records, and historical archives for assigned sports.
• Assist with game day media operations for home athletic events.
• Ensure accurate and timely completion of conference and NCAA reporting requirements.

Travel & Event Operations

• Travel with assigned teams as needed to serve as the primary communications contact.
• Provide on-site media relations support and content coverage during away competitions.
• Assist with postseason events, championships, special events, and major department announcements.
• Support department-wide communications coverage for additional sports as assigned.

Collaborative Initiatives

• Work closely with Athletic Marketing, Ticketing, External Relations, and Coaching staffs to support department goals.
• Assist with communications strategies that support recruiting, fan engagement, community outreach, and ticket sales.
• Contribute to departmental initiatives and special projects that advance the overall mission of the Athletics Department.

Compliance

• Perform all duties in accordance with University of Evansville, NCAA, and Missouri Valley Conference rules and regulations.
• Maintain a commitment to ethical conduct, compliance, and student-athlete welfare.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Admission to, or eligibility for admission into, a University of Evansville graduate program.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of sports and intercollegiate athletics.
• Experience working with NCAA Live Stats or comparable statistical software.
• Experience in athletic communications, sports information, journalism, media relations, or a related field.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and digital communication platforms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with graphic design software, including Adobe Creative Suite.
• Experience creating content for social media and digital platforms.
• Knowledge of website content management systems.
• Photography, videography, and multimedia storytelling experience.
• Knowledge of NCAA Division I athletics and conference reporting procedures.

Benefits

As a Graduate Assistant, the selected candidate will receive:

• Graduate assistantship stipend.
• Tuition coverage for courses leading to completion of a master's degree.
• Valuable professional experience within an NCAA Division I Athletics Department.
• Opportunities for mentorship and professional development within collegiate athletics and sports communications.

Working Environment

This position requires evening and weekend hours associated with athletic events and competitions. Travel with assigned teams is required. The successful candidate must be able to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while managing multiple responsibilities.

Why Join the University of Evansville?

The University of Evansville Athletics Department is committed to providing a first-class experience for student-athletes and fans while competing at the NCAA Division I level. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain meaningful experience in athletic communications, media relations, content creation, and strategic storytelling while contributing to the success and visibility of Purple Aces Athletics.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit application materials through the University of Evansville employment portal.

Legal Statement

The University of Evansville expects all members of its community to treat each other with respect and civility. Harassing behaviors directed towards any member of our community will not be tolerated. As part of its commitment to non-discrimination, the University specifically prohibits harassment based on any other characteristics set forth in its nondiscrimination statement as follows: including race, color, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, creed or religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status and all federally protected groups/classes. Any form of harassment undermines the mission of the University and negatively impacts the University community as a whole.

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