Faculty Focus - Cole McKeel

Cole pictured at the USA vs. Russian Olympic Committee hockey game during the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games
Cole pictured at the USA vs. Russian Olympic Committee hockey game during the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games


Story by Skyler Smith, a junior studying digital journalism and a CBSM student marketing assistant. All photos courtesy of Cole McKeel.


The Olympic Games are in full swing, so let’s take a moment to highlight our very own Cole McKeel. Cole is an adjunct faculty member for CBSM’s sport and recreation business program and an inspiring individual.

From 2016 to 2020, Cole worked as the business development manager for the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee. He was in charge of generating outside revenue for the Olympic and Paralympic Training Centers in Colorado and New York. Before the USOPC, Cole was a marketing and media assistant and the diversity and inclusion champion for USA Bobsled & Skeleton, where he was responsible for partnerships with BMW and Under Armour.



Cole at the top of the bobsled track during the two-women’s competition at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games
Cole at the top of the bobsled track during the two-women’s competition at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games


 

"I am extremely fortunate to have spent nearly my entire professional life in the Olympic & Paralympic movements,” Cole said. “From traveling the world (54 countries and counting) to working with some of the best athletes in the world to meeting friends from different backgrounds, nations and cultures, the Olympic & Paralympic space has given me endless, unforgettable moments."

Cole graduated with honors and a bachelor's degree in sports administration, finance, and marketing. After graduation, he pursued an MBA with a concentration in finance. He also received a Master of Science, Olympic Studies, Olympic Education and Organization and Management of Olympic Events from the International Olympic Academy and the University of Peloponnese in Olympia, Greece!

 

A two-time graduate of the University of Louisville, Cole poses alongside two-time Olympic Gold Medalist, Angel McCoughtry, at the 2016 Rio Summer Olympic Games
A two-time graduate of the University of Louisville, Cole poses alongside two-time Olympic Gold Medalist, Angel McCoughtry, at the 2016 Rio Summer Olympic Games


 

Cole currently serves as the vice president of GoEmpire Group, a professional basketball athlete representation firm located in Chicago. He is responsible for international operations, including client recruiting and relations, and ensuring clients' continued satisfaction. He also serves as the director of partnerships with the Huddle Up Group, a consulting firm in the sports tourism industry.

 

Cole pictured in the athlete village at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, alongside friends from Puerto Rico, Argentina, Chile, El Salvador and France
Cole pictured in the athlete village at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, alongside friends from Puerto Rico, Argentina, Chile, El Salvador and France


 

During Cole’s down time, he practices his fluency in French and has set himself a goal to read at least one book each month, as well as listen to one book each month.

Cole shared the following advice to students:

"There is no linear path to success. Whatever your passion is in life, find a way to make it your career. Volunteer every chance you get. Take the time to build your network by reaching out to people that have the positions you are hopeful to get one day. Everyone in this industry has relied on the help of others to get to where they are today. Don't be too prideful to ask for help. Most importantly, learn from every single experience. Don't ever stop learning."

Are you interested in our Bachelor of Sport and Recreation Business degree? You could learn from a variety of inspiring educators–including Cole!

 

Cole at the women’s downhill alpine skiing event at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games
Cole at the women’s downhill alpine skiing event at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games