By Nicole Reisinger - Maryland Media Relations Student Assistant 

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - Members of the University of Maryland's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) were visited by the Big Ten Conference's Kerry Kenny, who provided key strategies to foster influence in everyday life.

Kenny highlighted the qualities that are key components of being on a team - in athletics and business. Time management, the ability to work independently and with others, and adaptability are just some examples of skills that are learned on field or court that are transferable into the workforce.

Kenny also stressed the importance of networking. This practice is continually becoming more and more integral in determining the opportunities presented to college students. Students have always been told it's “who you know” that will get you to success, however, Kenny reversed the roles and said now it's about “who knows you." This statement grabbed everyone's attention.

Self-promotion is a challenge for many college students because some find it uncomfortable for an array of reasons, yet Kenny urged the audience to put themselves out into the competitive arena and promote their strengths.

At the end of his presentation, Kenny concluded with universal invaluable advice: "Go beyond what is required of you; even if it is in your local community, find some social aspect that is bigger than yourself and help to extend their cause." He then said to never discount the things you have learned and accomplished. 

Kenny, who is in his eighth year with the Big Ten Conference, serves as Director of Compliance and has had an extremely impressive career. The former Division I student-athlete played basketball for Lafayette and graduated with a degree in Economics and Business.

Kenny is tasked with working in compliance, public affairs, media inquiries, television, scheduling, health and safety. He has NCAA SAAC leadership experience spanning three years which has taken him from representative to Chair.