“I’ve always been interested in brand marketing and PR, and with NIL now playing a major role for athletes, it was valuable to learn how professionals guide athletes through media relations and collaborations,” Jada Lee said.
Communications, journalism and media (CJM) major Jada Lee, recently attended the PRSSA Mid-Atlantic District Conference at Temple University and the Pittsburgh Steelers Communications Student Summit. She explored career opportunities in sports communication and had meaningful conversations with mentors such as Claire Smith, the first woman to cover Major League Baseball.
Sports and wellness have always been a huge part of Lee’s life. Growing up, she was a competitive cheerleader and a fast-pitch softball player. Now, Lee is active in sports media and health advocacy. She is a live sports reporter for SUTV and is also a Spin Instructor and has a Spotify podcast called Secretcuesof_mslee, where she discusses wellness and the pillars of health.
At the PRSSA conference, Lee spoke with Jeanie Davey at NRG Energy and learned about the importance of corporate sponsorships, relationship-building and how to grow as a professional – all tools that she can apply to her pursuit in sports communication and toward her passion for the health and wellness industry.
During the conference, Lee also participated in a breakout session led by Shane Ramsey, who works in media relations for the Philadelphia Eagles.
“His experience with the Philadelphia Eagles and his thoughtful approach to relationship-building etiquette gave me a fresh perspective,” Lee said. She explained how the season allowed her to better understand how to “grow into a well-rounded professional at Shippensburg University and beyond.”
The most powerful interaction that Lee had was with her mentor and the first female MLB reporter, Claire Smith.
“During my conversation with Claire Smith, she held my hand and encouraged me to pursue what I’m passionate about,” Lee said. “She acknowledged the many challenges women face in sports, while reminding me that this doesn’t mean I should give up.”
Smith shared stories about notable athletes and provided Lee with an honest yet positive outlook on what it is like to be a woman within the sports industry. Smith continues to provide Lee with professional advice and guidance.
“Since I’ve met her, she answers every question with open arms. She guides me through obstacles that I’ve faced and offers insights and connections to reach my goals. She inspires me not to be afraid of anything and to invite the discomfort because that’s where I will grow,” Lee said regarding Smith.
Lee also acknowledged Professor Stephanie Witmer for continuing to guide her toward the right path. “Every time I take one of her courses, I learn so much. She challenges me while being my biggest cheerleader. She’s an incredible mentor.”
She also credited her stepfather, Curtis, as being a major inspiration to her. “He gave me the confidence to say I want to work in fitness. Without him, I’m not sure I’d be a two-time All-American or part of the play-by-play broadcast team for Ship U football. I’m forever grateful.”
With a concentration in public relations and a minor in international development and an interest in fitness, Lee has a wide range of interests and plans for the future. Her career goals include teaching spinning, blogging and interning abroad to teach fitness to children in under-resourced areas. After graduation, she hopes to combine her passions for fitness, education and media by teaching exercise courses and pursuing a role in public relations or marketing within the wellness or sports industry.
Lee represents the power in pursuing your passions. From connecting with industry leaders at conferences to hosting a podcast and Spin classes, she continues to create opportunities for herself. Lee demonstrates that by attending networking events and connecting with mentors, students across all majors and interests can take steps toward achieving their goals.
