Volleyball Day didn’t just break records; it became an unforgettable chapter for Huskers across the globe. But the event would not have been what it was without the leadership of Brandon Meier, who led efforts to organize and execute the event. In fact, Meier’s time in Husker Athletics has been marked by fresh ideas that make Husker game days unforgettable.
Meier once walked the halls of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln himself as a student and an early member of HuskerVision, the first video production department in intercollegiate athletics. After graduation, his work took him to Oklahoma and Texas before he came back home to be part of the executive leadership in Nebraska Athletics as the senior associate athletic director for marketing and multimedia.
Meier talked with University Communication and Marketing and took a trip down memory lane to when he was a student himself, examining the experiences that shaped him and how campus has changed.
What brought you back to work at your alma mater?
There is no place like Nebraska. Returning was an amazing opportunity for my family. I really enjoyed my stops at the Houston Rockets and the University of Oklahoma, but I was ready for a new challenge. Coming back to Nebraska Athletics was an opportunity to expand my leadership to new areas and continue to grow professionally. This position was a perfect fit for my education and experience.
What is your favorite memory from your time as a student?
In 1999, there was a Tailgate on the Turf event in the stadium for homecoming that Tom Green hosted. Tom was crazier than I could have ever expected. It is a night I will never forget.
How has campus changed since you were a student?
Physically, the campus is drastically different. All my journalism classes were in Avery Hall, right next to Memorial Stadium. Logistically, this was great for me as I also worked at HuskerVision in West Memorial Stadium whenever I had free time. The expansion of new dorms, the College of Business and the College of Engineering have transformed campus.
The Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts did not exist. I would have loved to learn in that environment. There are so many opportunities for student growth that did not exist 25 years ago. UNL has done a great job adapting and modernizing to the changing technology and needs of today’s students.
Was there a class, professor or experience that changed your path or shaped who you are today?
Peter Maslowski’s Military History class was my favorite class in college. I learned so much about leadership and military strategy. To this day, I still like to read books on military leadership and world history. Jerry Renaud was my adviser in the College of Journalism. He provided me with some great advice and was a tremendous mentor while I was going through undergrad.
What was your go-to hangout spot on campus (or in town)?
The El Matador lounge on Cornhusker Highway for karaoke night was my go-to. The End Zone was and still is my favorite spot to grab some wings.
Can you describe a campus tradition, event or space that meant a lot to you and why?
I love the tradition of a Husker Football game day. Connecting with old friends and family before the game, the smells of the food on the concourse, Husker Power, Cornhusker Marching Band, Tunnel Walk and now the light show. Go Big Red!
What is one piece of advice you’d give a current Nebraska student?
Utilize your professor’s office hours. This additional one-on-one time helped me get through the tough classes and formed relationships that last a lifetime.
