NEW ORLEANS, La. – Former National Football League cornerback, Lamar Campbell spoke to New Orleans Privateers student-athletes on Monday night at the University Center Ballroom. Campbell spoke about the importance of social media and seizing opportunities to grow in life after college.
During his speech, Campbell stressed that social media is media, and to use it smartly to protect personal brand. Campbell also used examples of famous athletes and celebrities who destroyed their own name to highlight the main point of his lecture to use social media carefully.
A native of Chester, Pennsylvania, Campbell played for the Detroit Lions from 1998-2004. Campbell joined the Lions' scouting department after his playing career. During his time in Detroit, Campbell also participated in many charitable organizations including Big Brothers and Big Sisters of America.
"I was really impressed with the way he was able to transition using his life experiences through athletics to transition into the working world. He spoke at the University of Pittsburgh to some of our athletes when I worked there," said Assistant Athletic Director of Student-Athlete Enrichment Dr. Charles Small. "I thought he'd be a great speaker, but more than anything he's a great role model."
In 2007 Campbell opened his own real estate company in Atlanta. He is currently the Director of Media Relations for the Atlanta National Football League Players Association. Campbell is also the host of a talk show entitled "Life After the Game" which focuses on the inside world of athletes and sports business professionals' affairs.
"Lamar has a lot of key tips that will help athletes at UNO make that transition particularly looking at social media and being smart and how we use it as a resource to promote a positive brand," said Small.
Athletic Director Derek Morel started the proceedings by discussing the NewO hash tag meaning new opportunity. Morel also stated that Campbell had a great message, and it's a profound opportunity for the student-athletes, who are viewed as the leaders of the campus, to be able to carry that message forward.
"I think it's important they get from this message the opportunity to grow and to make sure you solidify the message that you want to send to employers and want to represent in terms of your brand," said Small.
