On Wednesday, March 30, Catholic Law’s Sports and Entertainment Law Society hosted a timely conversation regarding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and its intersection with law and society. Students and guests (including several coaches from the University’s Athletic Department) got an insider perspective on NIL from Catholic Law alumnus Chima Okoli ’17, Founder of Marathon Mentors, LLC, an NIL consulting company.

After a brief welcome, Okoli shared his personal relationship with athletics, his decision to participate as a Division I football player at Penn State University, and how he carved a place for himself within the NIL space. Okoli explained just how “corporate” college athletics is and highlighted the importance of teaching young student-athletes how to navigate NIL (especially, in the absence of the NCAA creating supportive policies). He concluded, “If [NIL] is something that is approached with education, dedication, and equity in mind, then I have no doubt that going forward, we absolutely can implement positive change. And at the end of the day, it really is time.” 

To close, Okoli took questions from attendees, many of which revolved around working as an NIL consultant, advice for students pursuing a career in the space, and practical tips for those working with collegiate student-athletes. Following the conclusion of the program, Okoli, students, and guests were invited to the Louise H. Keelty and James K. Keelty, Jr. Atrium for a reception.