Phone:  (814) 871-7601
Room: Beyer 225
Email: oneillkl001@gannon.edu

Program Director of Advertising Communications

Program Director of Sports Management and Marketing

B.A. Mercyhurst College

M.A. Edinboro University of Pennsylvania

The art of advertising has been a part of the selling process for as long as people have exchanged desired products and services. Today, when people think of advertising they often envision images of slick TV ads produced by big Madison Avenue ad agencies. While many award-winning ads have been produced by these firms, the field of advertising is actually so much more. It is a creative and exciting industry that deals with the art of communication and the development of persuasive messages.

So much of what is being done in the field of advertising incorporates not only the traditional concept of advertising (TV, radio, newspaper, outdoor, Internet and more) but an integration with other persuasive communications methods. Public relations, direct marketing, sales promotions and personal selling are included in the promotional mix elements needed for an effective strategic communications effort that meets the targeted objectives. The industry standard of an integrated marketing communication effort is taught and supported in Gannon's Advertising Communications Program.

With the proliferation of sports teams and facilities to advance sports and exercise there is a growing need for professionals interested in combining both a passion and talent for the marketing and management of the sport and exercise industries. The Sports Management and Marketing Program at Gannon is an interdisciplinary program of the Dahlkemper School of Business and the Sport and Exercise Science Department, where students study the theory and application of business with a focus on the sports and exercise industries.

The major provides students the opportunity to combine their dual interests in marketing/management with a specific application to the sport and exercise professions. Students in the program advance their education while drawing on multiple areas of knowledge and skills learned and experienced in the classroom, lab setting and on sports-specific sites on the local, regional and national level.

The program seeks to combine a strong foundation in theory and practice in preparing the student for advanced degree programs or entry level careers in a variety of fields including, but not limited to, the marketing and management of professional sports, collegiate sports and administration, recreation and leisure studies, retail, marketing and promotions, sports communications and others.

• Dahlkemper School of Business Administration
• Marketing Committee - Chair
• Curriculum Committee - Member
• University
• College of Engineering and Business Academic Affairs
• Holiday Party Committee
• Athletic Committee

• VisitErie Board of Directors
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Pennsylvania, Public Relations Chair
• eBizItPA Advisory Board
• Millcreek School District, Business School Advisory Board
• Master Gardner