NEW YORK (December 19, 2022) – Van Wagner and the Western Michigan University Department of Athletics announced a long-term partnership naming Van Wagner as the Broncos' exclusive multimedia rights partner and sales agent for the department's corporate sponsorship program. "Bronco Sports Partners", the new venture stemming from this partnership, will immediately get to work expanding upon WMU's robust corporate partnership program.
Van Wagner, an industry leader in college sports marketing and multi-media rights management, will represent WMU in the marketplace and enhance the in-venue experience for the Athletic Department's sponsors, business partners, and growing, dedicated fan base. In collaboration with WMU Athletics, Van Wagner will assign staff and resources to handle the integration of corporate sponsorships across multimedia platforms including prominent venue signage, broadcast rights, and digital and social media.
"Now is the right time to develop new revenue opportunities for WMU Athletics so that we can better compete as we enter a new era of intercollegiate sports," said Dan Bartholomae, Western Michigan University's Director of Athletics. "Van Wagner is the right partner, not only for their expertise in multi-media rights and sponsorships, but also for their genuine commitment to corporate and community engagement. This partnership will enable us to reach our financial goals, and even more importantly, continue to nurture high quality connections with our community. The future is bright for our Bronco Nation!"
Van Wagner has named Matt Arend as General Manager to lead Bronco Sports Partners, based in Kalamazoo. Arend, a Broncos alumnus, has previous experience managing external operations at Oregon State and served as Athletic Director for another Michigan institution. The team will focus on enhancing the gameday atmosphere for corporate partners, the student body, alumni, and all Broncos fans. This will include touchpoints throughout the year featuring digital and social media interaction, robust sweepstakes, in-venue content, and community engagement.
"We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Western Michigan University and eager to work with Director of Athletics Dan Bartholomae, his leadership team, fans, and alumni to build a Corporate Partners program that is reflective of this transformational time at the University," said Michael Palisi, President of Van Wagner's College Division. "Our team is looking forward to utilizing our extensive college marketing experience to maximize sponsorships and deliver a one-of-a-kind experience for fans, attendees, and our partners."
Western Michigan University is a member of the Mid-American Conference, along with fellow Van Wagner partner, Miami University. Western Michigan University, a national research university, is redefining success by expanding what it means to be smart in an ever-changing world. Through a better way of thinking, Broncos reach beyond job preparation to pursue their purpose, craft a life well-lived, and prosper in meaningful careers that make a positive impact on society.
Since 2014, Van Wagner has become a leader in college sports marketing and was developed to represent the sponsorship or multimedia rights for multiple schools and athletic conferences, including the America East Conference, Big South Conference, Big West Conference, Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, Colonial Athletic Association, Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, Southland Conference, Sun Belt Conference, Western Athletic Conference, and the West Coast Conference, as well as Arizona State National Sales, Canisius College, Coastal Carolina University, East Tennessee State University, Furman University, Florida International University, Georgia State University, Jacksonville University, Kennesaw State University, Liberty University, Loyola University Maryland, Miami University, Niagara University, Pepperdine University, Samford University, Rider University, Siena College, Saint Joseph's University, Sam Houston State University, Santa Clara University, Southern Utah University, Stony Brook University, The University of Texas at El Paso, Towson University, Valparaiso University and The College of William & Mary.
ABOUT VAN WAGNER
Van Wagner is a wholly owned subsidiary of Van Wagner Group LLC that creates, advises, and sells on behalf of world-class teams, leagues, brands, properties, and colleges. An innovator in the sports and media business, Van Wagner is a global leader in high-impact broadcast visible signage throughout the MLB, NBA, NCAA, and the highest levels of international soccer, sponsorships sales, premium ticketing, college multi-media rights, and in-venue content production at the world's biggest sporting events. www.vanwagner.com
Media Contacts:
Van Wagner: Mike Palisi – mpalisi@vanwagner.com or (212) 699-8627
