The Sun Belt Conference will form a Fellows Program designed to identify the next generation of collegiate athletics administrators. The program is a collaborative effort of each of the conference's 13 institutions and the conference office.

The program will foster mentoring programs, provide professional experiences at the conference level for administrators at institutions and identify leaders among current athletics administrators on campus.

“The Fellows Programs is a win-win initiative for everyone involved,” said Sun Belt Conference Commissioner Wright Waters.  “Those involved in the program will gain tremendous experience in the areas of branding, marketing and promotions while also helping to raise the level of awareness of the challenges facing administrators.  There is no question this program will enhance the experience of the student-athletes who compete in Sun Belt Conference.”

As part of the mentoring effort, each institution will identify mentors in several background areas. The mentors will then choose several entry- to mid-level staff members seeking advancements or undergraduates wanting to pursue a career in athletics to be Fellows.

Program participants will construct a plan to enhance the student-athlete experience through strategic branding, marketing and promotional initiatives. Fellows will also attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to learn about issues on a national level. Organizers believe Fellows Program participants will be better prepared and trained to assist in the leadership at their institutions and nationally.