The University of Akron Athletics
May 19 | General, Softball, Women's Basketball, Women's Soccer
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Platten Bio
Jonathan Platten
Assistant Director of Communications
Years at Akron- 3
Alma Mater: University of Akron
B.A. in Organizational Communications & Public Relations '15
M.S. in Education '16
What was the deciding factor that brought you to UA?
The University of Akron has been my home for the past nine years, dating back to my freshman year of college in 2011. I had the opportunity to work in the Athletics Department as a student-assistant and as a graduate assistant. So, when the chance to become a full-time employee at my alma mater arose, it was an opportunity that I could not pass up. This was my chance to make a positive impact on our student-athletes college careers.
How has your job/position changed over the years?
The job of an Athletics Communications, or Sports Information, professional is constantly changing and evolving, which requires you to wear many hats. With the rise of digital and social media, a SID handles writing press releases, game notes, and game recaps, but has also become a storyteller by strategizing ideas and concepts to utilize on social media, is involved in creating video content, has become a photographer, and so much more.
What are your current responsibilities?
I currently work closely with the Zips women's soccer, women's basketball, and softball programs overseeing public and media relations efforts. Additionally, I create digital content for the University of Akron Athletics Department social media account to help grow the Zips brand and the brand of our 20 NCAA Division I programs.
What have you learned during your time on campus?
Throughout my time on the campus of the University of Akron, I have learned that hard work and dedication are key factors in helping you achieve your dreams. As I began my college career, I knew I wanted to work in sports but did not realize how much work I would have to put into it to make that dream become a reality. Without the guidance of teachers, mentors, and colleagues, who knows if I would be working where I am today. I have also learned how important it is to surround yourself with people who can positively impact your life on a daily basis and a community, like Akron, that wants nothing but the best for you.
Do you have a favorite memory to share?
There have been a lot of memories created during my time at UA that it is hard to pick just one. I had the opportunity to travel to Boise, Idaho, and be a part of history as the football team brought home the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl trophy; I've witnessed the men's soccer team make numerous College Cup appearances; and the impact, no matter how small, I have made on a student-athletes time at Akron will always stand out to me.
What makes you most proud to be a Zip?
What makes me most proud to be a Zip is the strong tradition and culture that comes with it. I get to say that I graduated twice and worked at the University that has helped shape me into the person I am today. I will always be thankful for my time at Akron and I will always be #ForeverAZip.
Platten Bio
Jonathan Platten
Assistant Director of Communications
Years at Akron- 3
Alma Mater: University of Akron
B.A. in Organizational Communications & Public Relations '15
M.S. in Education '16
What was the deciding factor that brought you to UA?
The University of Akron has been my home for the past nine years, dating back to my freshman year of college in 2011. I had the opportunity to work in the Athletics Department as a student-assistant and as a graduate assistant. So, when the chance to become a full-time employee at my alma mater arose, it was an opportunity that I could not pass up. This was my chance to make a positive impact on our student-athletes college careers.
How has your job/position changed over the years?
The job of an Athletics Communications, or Sports Information, professional is constantly changing and evolving, which requires you to wear many hats. With the rise of digital and social media, a SID handles writing press releases, game notes, and game recaps, but has also become a storyteller by strategizing ideas and concepts to utilize on social media, is involved in creating video content, has become a photographer, and so much more.
What are your current responsibilities?
I currently work closely with the Zips women's soccer, women's basketball, and softball programs overseeing public and media relations efforts. Additionally, I create digital content for the University of Akron Athletics Department social media account to help grow the Zips brand and the brand of our 20 NCAA Division I programs.
What have you learned during your time on campus?
Throughout my time on the campus of the University of Akron, I have learned that hard work and dedication are key factors in helping you achieve your dreams. As I began my college career, I knew I wanted to work in sports but did not realize how much work I would have to put into it to make that dream become a reality. Without the guidance of teachers, mentors, and colleagues, who knows if I would be working where I am today. I have also learned how important it is to surround yourself with people who can positively impact your life on a daily basis and a community, like Akron, that wants nothing but the best for you.
Do you have a favorite memory to share?
There have been a lot of memories created during my time at UA that it is hard to pick just one. I had the opportunity to travel to Boise, Idaho, and be a part of history as the football team brought home the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl trophy; I've witnessed the men's soccer team make numerous College Cup appearances; and the impact, no matter how small, I have made on a student-athletes time at Akron will always stand out to me.
What makes you most proud to be a Zip?
What makes me most proud to be a Zip is the strong tradition and culture that comes with it. I get to say that I graduated twice and worked at the University that has helped shape me into the person I am today. I will always be thankful for my time at Akron and I will always be #ForeverAZip.
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