About the VOICE Team
The People Behind the Mission
At VOICE, we are dedicated to advancing collegiate esports through advocacy, research, and collaboration. Our staff and board bring together leaders from esports and higher education, working hard to strengthen and expand the collegiate esports ecosystem. With a focus on sustainable growth, our team works on initiatives that empower programs and shape the next generation of collegiate esports.
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The VOICE Team
Leadership & Board of Directors
Jesse Bodony
Executive Director, VOICE
Pace University
Glenn Platt
President Emeritus, VOICE
Miami University
Kurt Melcher
President Emeritus, VOICE
Intersport, Robert Morris University
Russ Hamer
Senior Advisor & Secretary, VOICE
Miami University, Lyceum AI
Dan Clerke
Board President, VOICE
Maryville University
Sergio Brack
Board Vice President, VOICE
University of Maryland
Karen Ruggles
Board Member, VOICE
DeSales University
Doc Haskell
Board Member, VOICE
Boise State University
Sari Kitelyn
Board Member, VOICE
Full Sail University
Kaitlin Teniente
Board Member, VOICE
St. Mary's University
Adam Stanley
Board Member, VOICE
Baylor University
Caroline Shaw
Board Member, VOICE
Fisher College
Mike Aguilar
Board Member, VOICE
University of Oklahoma
Mark Deppe
PAC Advisor, VOICE
University of California, Irvine
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PAC Advisor, VOICE
University of Hawai'i at Manoa
Gabriel Otto
Accountant, VOICE
Avant
FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
I want to know more about...
About VOICE
What is VOICE and what does it stand for?
VOICE (Voice of Intercollegiate Esports) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing collegiate esports across North America. VOICE acts as an advocacy and research body, providing guidance and resources to universities, individuals, and organizations involved in esports. It aims to promote collaboration and sustainability in the collegiate esports ecosystem.
How does VOICE support the collegiate esports ecosystem?
VOICE plays an important role in shaping the future of collegiate esports by creating program standards, providing valuable resources, and facilitating discussions among key stakeholders. Through its advisory councils, VOICE brings together industry leaders to develop best practices create pathways for growth within esports programs at colleges and universities.
Who are the key stakeholders in VOICE?
The key stakeholders in VOICE include university administrators, esports directors, coaches, and students. Additionally, VOICE works closely with industry partners to promote the development of collegiate esports programs and enhance the overall experience for participants.
What are VOICE's main goals for collegiate esports?
VOICE’s main goals are to build unified standards for collegiate esports, support program growth through research, and advocate on behalf of higher education institutions.
Does VOICE offer competitive esports events?
VOICE does not directly organize or host competitive esports events.
Advisory Councils
What is the role of VOICE’s advisory councils?
VOICE’s advisory councils serve as strategic bodies that provide guidance and recommendations on key issues within collegiate esports. These councils, which include Presidents and Directors, help shape policies, ensure alignment with industry standards, and advocate for the growth and sustainability of esports programs across colleges and universities.
What are the different types of advisory councils in VOICE?
VOICE has several advisory councils that focus on different aspects of collegiate esports. These include the Presidents Advisory Council, which provides strategic direction from university leadership, and the Directors Advisory Council, which focuses on the operational needs and best practices for esports programs.
Where can I learn more about VOICE advisory councils?
You can learn more about VOICE's advisory councils by clicking on the "About VOICE" dropdown in the menu bar.
Membership
How can my institution join VOICE?
Institutions can join VOICE by becoming part of the Presidents Advisory Council (PAC), which includes university Presidents and Chancellors who help guide the future of collegiate esports. Membership at the presidential level gives institutions a voice in shaping research, policy, and advocacy efforts in the collegiate esports space. PAC members see their voices heard through bi-annual summits and direct input for our Board of Directors and staff to enact change in the collegiate esports ecosystem.
What benefits does my institution receive by joining VOICE?
By joining VOICE through the PAC, your institution will have the opportunity to influence strategic decisions regarding standards, governance, and the academic alignment of esports. This provides the opportunity to directly influence the growth of collegiate esports and shape the strategic direction of the industry alongside other heads of leading universities.
Is there a membership fee for institutions?
Yes, there is an annual contribution required for institutions that join the Presidents Advisory Council (PAC). These contributions help fund VOICE’s research initiatives, development of policy solutions, and advocacy efforts aimed at strengthening collegiate esports programs.
Can individual programs or directors join VOICE?
VOICE focuses its membership at the presidential level, meaning that individual programs or directors do not have direct membership access. However, Directors can join the conversation for free by joining the VOICE Directors Advisory Council.
How can I learn more about joining the Presidents Advisory Council?
To learn more about joining the PAC, reach out directly to our team at contact@voicecollegiate.org. We are actively seeking new institutional leaders to help guide the direction of collegiate esports and invite those interested in supporting our mission to connect with us.
Research
What kind of research does VOICE conduct?
VOICE conducts IRB-approved and non-IRB-approved research focused on systemic issues within collegiate esports. This includes exploring topics such as governance, eligibility standards, the student-athlete outcomes, and the impact of esports on academic success. The research aims to provide data-driven insights that will help shape the future of collegiate esports.
Where can I access VOICE’s research reports and findings?
VOICE’s research reports and findings are shared through our website, email newsletters, and at VOICE events. These findings are also used to guide discussions within our advisory councils and other industry partnerships.
How can my program participate in VOICE’s research?
Your program can participate in VOICE’s research initiatives by submitting data through the VEPSI process and engaging in any of our ongoing studies or surveys.
Scholastic Esports Awards
What is the Scholastic Esports Awards?
The Scholastic Esports Awards (SEA) is VOICE's national convention that brings together collegiate esports professionals, university leaders, students, and industry. It celebrates excellence in collegiate and k-12 esports, providing a platform for networking and sharing best practices.
When are the Awards?
The Scholastic Esports Awards takes place annually in early January.
Where can I learn more about the Scholastic Esports Awards?
For more information about the SEA and National Convention, including event details and registration, visit the SEA Convention page on our website. You can also sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on dates, speakers, and event opportunities.