Mastering the Message: Spotlight on Robert DeVita, Associate Athletic Director for Marketing & Communications at Stony Brook University
Rob oversees the communication efforts for Stony Brook’s 18 Division 1 sports, including prominent teams in men's basketball, football, men's lacrosse, and more. A key aspect of his role involves building and maintaining relationships with the media, a task that has become increasingly challenging in recent years.
One significant change Rob has observed is the shift in relationships with members of the media. "I think the biggest thing I miss is those deeper relationships with beat reporters," Rob shared. "With budget cuts and downsizing, especially post-COVID, those relationships have become more strained." Despite these challenges, Rob emphasizes the importance of continually working to build and nurture media relationships.
For those looking to break into the field of communications, Rob’s advice is simple yet profound: "Never stop learning." In an industry where trends change rapidly, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. "You need to be organized, reliable, and accountable," he added, highlighting the core values that guide his department.
Looking ahead, Rob sees a strong focus on short-form, engaging content, particularly video. "Videos under 30 seconds are becoming the norm," he noted. "You need to capture attention quickly and appeal to emotions." This trend is especially relevant in athletic communications, where captivating storytelling can significantly enhance fan engagement.
When discussing the toughest challenges with reporters, Rob emphasized the importance of capitalizing on key moments, such as a team's success in tournaments. "We need to be ready to provide all the facts, details, and access to ensure our story is told on a national stage," he explained. The goal is to provide a full picture, not just the main story but also the human interest elements that make it compelling.
Rob’s closing advice to aspiring professionals is to keep chasing their passion. "If you're passionate about something, go and get it," he encouraged. Persistence, accountability, and a hunger for learning are key ingredients for success in the competitive field of athletic communications.
Care to strike up a conversation?
Let's tell the world your story.
Nima Olumi
Founder & CEO
Moritz Hain
VP of Client Relations
.png)
.png)
.png)