Matthew Papatheodorou Named Kent State’s New Director of Athletics Marketing and Strategy
7/26/2017 11:22:00 AM | General
KENT, Ohio - Kent State University Athletics and University Communications and Marketing have announced the hiring of Matthew Papatheodorou as director of athletics marketing and strategy.
Papatheodorou
will develop strategies to support the athletics department's strategic vision, "The Game Plan," focused on elevating the athletics gameday experience and student engagement. Kent State continues to make an investment in an exciting gameday environment for all its athletics programs with an emphasis on basketball. Involvement in high-impact experiences, including spirited athletics competitions, enhances student engagement and increases the likelihood of college success.
"The Game Plan" envisions men's basketball as an opportunity for national distinction. Papatheodorou brings a wealth of experience in promoting basketball in Northeast Ohio, having served as the senior marketing manager for the Cleveland Cavaliers for the last six years.
"We're excited to bring Matt into the Kent State family," said Casey Cegles, Kent State's deputy athletics director. "Our strategic vision puts an emphasis on making Kent State men's basketball games a unique experience. We're confident Matt's extensive background with the Cavs and enthusiasm for collegiate athletics will elevate our gameday experience to the next level."
Working with the Cavaliers, Papatheodorou managed all marketing-themed in-game promotions, ensuring buy-in and coordination from all organizational departments. He also led the Cavaliers' effort in developing innovative promotions, from the design stage to delivery, and the interactive concourse experience.
"I am thrilled to be rejoining the college ranks, as education is so important to me," Papatheodorou said. "An opportunity to blend my past experiences in sport with a passion for higher education is an opportunity I am thrilled to take on. I am extremely excited to join Kent State University and can't wait to get started."
Papatheodorou placed an emphasis on the Cavaliers' community outreach efforts, coordinating both in-arena events and external off-site events via the Cavs Caravan. He has extensive experience working with departments such as ticket sales, corporate sales and the Cavaliers graphics team.
Prior to his time with the Cavaliers, Papatheodorou gained experience working as the event coordinator for the Greater Columbus Convention Center and served as an account services coordinator at All Points Connect in Solon, Ohio.
Originally from Canton, Ohio, Papatheodorou earned an undergraduate degree in criminology and business from Ohio State University. He went on to earn a graduate degree in sports management at Ohio State. He currently resides in Copley, Ohio, with his wife, Anne-Marie, and daughter, Anna.
Learn more about "The Game Plan."
For more information about Kent State Athletics, visit www.kentstatesports.com.
