The Youngstown State Department of Intercollegiate Athletics announced Thursday it has partnered with EmpwrU to launch a new NIL program in support of all of its student-athletes. The collaboration provides true NIL marketing opportunities, education, mental wellness resources, scholarship support, employment and other needed services for YSU student-athletes at no cost to the University.

"We are excited to align with Youngstown State Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Ron Strollo, and his staff and coaches, in providing resources that enhance student-athlete wellbeing and opportunities," Kerry Perry, CEO of EmpwrU said. "From the start, Ron and his department have embraced the NIL space and continue to lead with resources and support that truly make a difference in the lives of all their student-athletes. We are thrilled to add Youngstown State as another Horizon League partner-school of EmpwrU."
 
EmpwrU's unique model brings athletes and brands together to form true marketing partnerships through sponsorships. EmpwrU staffs a professional sales and activation team on-the-ground to ensure athletes receive the maximum value of their NIL and brands have access to athletes to reach their goals. EmpwrU adds to the NIL resources available to YSU student-athletes, including the partnership with Opendorse. 

"YSU is excited to partner with EmpwrU and help continue to maximize NIL opportunities for our student-athletes," Strollo said. "Kerry and her team will connect our student-athletes with brands in the marketplace and coordinate even more local and national deals for them. EmpwrU provides a unique financial model and approach, not only with NIL opportunities, but also provides resources and services to address the holistic needs for all of our student-athletes. As college athletics continues to evolve in the NIL space, the collaboration with EmpwrU and their leadership team further demonstrates our commitment to YSU's student-athletes and our University."

EmpwrU will be on campus on Jan. 17 and Jan. 18 to meet with Youngstown State student-athletes and staff.
 
Perry knows the college sports space very well. As the founder and CEO of KP Sports, Perry's company partnered with Division I Mid-Major athletic programs and in nine years was acquired by multimedia rights company and industry leader, Learfield.
 
"Over the past few years, I have had a front row seat as a mentor, advisor and potential investor to many of the companies and organizations in the NIL space," Perry continued. "While there are some really great companies bringing interesting solutions to athletes, there is not one company or organization that is addressing the holistic needs of all student-athletes. We intend to fix that."
 
About EmpwrU
EmpwrU provides solutions that empower and ensure all athletes have access to NIL opportunities, education, mental wellness, scholarship support, and other resources through an automated athlete-friendly platform. Our mission is to help all athletes with added resources and financial support to achieve a college degree and be better prepared for life after graduation.

Follow EmpwrU: Facebook | Instagram | Linkedln | X | EmpwrU