Assistant Athletic Director - Development, South Dakota State University
"I gained a new perspective from attending CSP because of the incredible diversity this campus provides."
Elliot Powell was greatly influenced by professors, advisors, and his baseball coach during his time as a student at CSP. Now, as an Assistant Athletic Director for Development at South Dakota State University, he is well on his way to his goal of leading a Division II or Division III athletic department.
Q: What brought you to CSP?
A: I came to CSP for the opportunity to play college baseball in a dynamic metropolitan area.
Q: How would you describe your CSP experience?
A: The personal attention you receive from your professors and advisors is second to none. You are not a number at CSP.
Q: What was your campus involvement as a student?
A: I was a four-year student-athlete on the baseball team and the head sports editor for our campus newspaper.
Q: What has your career path been since graduating?
A: My career has been in college athletics development. Currently, I am an administrator charged with raising money for the athletic department I serve. I have had stops at the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York, the University of South Dakota, and now at my current institution, South Dakota State University.
Q: Describe your current job role and responsibilities:
A: I am the Assistant Athletic Director for Development at South Dakota State University. I am charged with raising funds for SDSU athletics and athletic scholarship opportunities.
Q: What are your career goals?
A: One day I hope to lead an athletic department, ideally at the Division II or III level.
Q: Who were some of the people at CSP that influenced you the most, and how?
A: My baseball coach, Lunch McKenzie, gave me the opportunity to play baseball at CSP. Also, Dr. Flottemesch, Dr. Winegarden, and Professor Matt Ryan all had a great influence on me during my time on campus. The relationships you are able to form with your professors is what I will remember most.
Q: What are your favorite CSP memories?
A: I met my best friends at CSP and I got to live out my dream of playing college baseball at CSP.
Q: How has your CSP education impacted your life and career?
A: I gained a new perspective from attending CSP because of the incredible diversity this campus provides. I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for my experiences at CSP.