Steelers Student Rush | Pittsburgh Steelers - Steelers.com
Ryan Huzjak
Sr. Vice President of Business Operations, (LinkedIn)
I oversee revenue generation (sponsorship sales, ticket sales and premium seating), marketing (brand, events, game presentation, youth/football development, alumni relations, direct marketing, loyalty, international and creative), business analytics, and the Steelers' content efforts (TV, radio, digital, social platforms, print, and editorial functions). I serve as a member of the executive leadership team and work closely with ownership on key initiatives such as hosting the NFL Draft, stadium renovations, international development and long-range strategic planning.
- The University of Toledo
- DePaul Driehaus College of Business
- Director of Partnership Marketing - Chicago Bears
- Marketing Account Executive - Chicago Bulls
- Marketing Account Executive - Chicago White Sox
James Sacco
Senior Vice President of Stadium Operations & Management
I am responsible for all aspects of the Acrisure Stadium operations, including but not limited to stadium policies, procedures, security measures, and governmental relations.
Bill Adler
Manager, Database Marketing Analytics, (LinkedIn)
As a part of the business analytics department, I manage analysts and oversee reporting to ensure stakeholders have clear, actionable insights. I also partner closely with legal counsel to ensure our data practices align with privacy and compliance standards. Ultimately, my role is to translate complex data into strategic recommendations that help drive smarter business decisions.
- Marquette University
- University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
- Sr. Analyst, Business Intelligence Eagle - Milwaukee Bucks
- Senior Account Executive, Group Sales - Milwaukee Brewers
- Corporate Account Executive - Lansing Lugnuts
- Regional Property Management Team Member - MVP Sports Clubs
Mike Annarella
Director of Football Communications, University of Pittsburgh Athletics, (LinkedIn)
I joined the Panthers in 2024 after a decade of Public Relations experience in the NFL. In this position, I manage the daily media operations and shaping the public narrative for the Pitt Panthers football program. I serve as the lead media contact and direct all department efforts as it relates to the team. I oversee game day communications, press conferences, and interviews to increase awareness and interest in the program.
- Westminster College alumnus
- Native of New Castle, PA
- Began professional career serving in public relations roles with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Green Bay Packers and most recently, as the communications manager for the Cleveland Browns
Brandon Artman
Marketing Event Manager
I am responsible for planning, organizing, and executing Steelers fan-facing events throughout the calendar year, including but not limited to our Draft Party, Training Camp, Gameday, and more. I also manage the Steelers Brand Ambassador program.
- Marketing Event Operations Coordinator - Pittsburgh Steelers
- Marketing Associate  - Pittsburgh Steelers
- Marketing Intern  - Pittsburgh Steelers
Nicole Bauer
Growth & Audience Marketing Manager, (LinkedIn)
I'm focused on future-proofing Steelers Nation by expanding fandom to new generations and diverse demographics, exploring creative non-traditional paths to build lifelong fans, and deepening engagement with our most dedicated supporters. The Growth team leads efforts across Steelers Student Rush, Women of Steel, targeted school and youth programming, and global fan club engagement through Steelers Nation Unite while closely collaborating with teams throughout the organization.
- University of Pittsburgh
- Marketing Manager - Pittsburgh Riverhounds and Highmark Stadium
- Digital Marketing Specialist (Pirates Sponsorships) - Guardian Protection
Michael Bertsch
Assistant Director of Communications, (LinkedIn)
I will begin my eighth season with the Steelers communications department in 2026. In his role, I manage communications efforts of many of the team's top players and coaches. I also direct the production of the team's media guide, weekly release and many of the materials used weekly to aid the local and national media. I coordinate the efforts of the department surrounding the Steelers annual network shoot days, and assist the Senior Director in many of the departments long term goals and projects.
- Walsh University alumnus
- Masters in Athletic Administration from Marshall University
- Spent 13 years in the sports information department of Notre Dame Athletics, including 6+ years as Director of Football Communications
Chris Burns
Executive Producer – Live Stadium Events, (LinkedIn)
My role is to plan, organize and execute live in-game presentation for Steelers games and Acrisure Stadium events. I'm the Show Caller for these events, and I manage staffing for our crew for pre-production and event days. I supervise all capital improvement projects regarding the scoreboard control room (videoboards, equipment, software/hardware).
- Washburn University
- Producer/Director - Carolina Hurricanes
- Director/Producer - WRAL
- Director/Technical Director - WWAY-TV
- LLC
Mark Cancilla
Digital Commerce Graphic Design Coordinator, (LinkedIn)
I handle design across all print and digital platforms for the Digital Commerce Division. This includes, but is not limited to, email marketing, Pro Shop site, social media, exclusive product design, video production, and product/lifestyle photography. I even handled the design of the 1933 Throwback Uniform worn on-field in the 2025 season.
- La Roche University
- Senior Digital Designer - Rue 21
- Web Designer - American Eagle Outfitters
MacKaiya Cherry
Communications Coordinator/Social Media, (LinkedIn)
My role combines social media and public relations. My role is currently one of one in the NFL; I educate and monitor players, coaches, and Steelers staff on social media. On a day-to-day basis, I monitor Steelers news on social media while also preparing talking points for players and coaches, writing press releases, and preparing credentials for game day.
- University of Maryland, College Park alumnus
- Gameday Intern - Washington Commanders
- Communications Intern - NFL Players Association
- Media Relations Intern - University of Maryland Athletics
Kevin Colbert
Former Executive Vice President and General Manager, Pittsburgh Steelers
I am a highly successful NFL executive, and the former EVP and General Manager for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2010 to 2021. I was instrumental in building two Super Bowl-winning teams (XL and XLIII), joining the Steelers in 2000 as the first Director of Football Operations. Since my retirement from the NFL, I have joined the Ohio State football program as a consultant, assisting the school's player personnel department.
- Robert Morris University alumnus and Pittsburgh native
- Spent time with BLESTO, the Miami Dolphins and the Detroit Lions prior to joining the Steelers
- In retirement, enjoys spending time with his wife, Janis, his children, Kacie, Jen and Dan, and his nine grandchildren
Payton Comunale
Marketing Campaign Coordinator, (LinkedIn)
I manage the strategy and execution of integrated campaigns across the season and offseason, driving measurable growth and brand impact. I specialize in expanding Student Rush, Women of Steel, and our Youth platform by converting college students into lifelong fans, deepening female engagement, and connecting families to team resources. I collaborate cross-functionally with Data Analytics, Creative, and Corporate Partnerships to optimize performance and deliver on sponsor commitments.
- Point Park University
- Marketing Campaigns & Fan Engagement Associate - Pittsburgh Steelers
- Social Media Manager - Holy Smokes BBQ Pit
- Television Co-producer - Point Park University
Caitlyn Cossu
Marketing Event Coordinator, (LinkedIn)
My role includes planning and executing any team event that is open to the fans, including game days, Training Camp hospitality, SteelHERS Social, our Run Walk, and others. Depending on the event, my involvement can range from playing a supportive role to being the event manager.
- Penn State University
- Ticket Sales and Retention Executive - Pittsburgh Steelers
- Corporate Events Intern - PSSI Stadium LLC
- Communications Intern - State College Spikes
Matt Curry
Stadium Events Production Manager, (LinkedIn)
My role is to coordinate and execute live event videoboard production for Acrisure Stadium. I'm the associate Show Caller for Steelers Gamedays, as well as the primary liaison for Pitt Athletics in the Control Room. I book our crew for all events and set days and assist with control room maintenance.
- Elon University
- Director of Pack Productions - NC State Athletics
- Multimedia Specialist - NC State Athletic
Keaton Engle
Marketing Campaign Specialist, (LinkedIn)
I manage projects and develop strategy for campaigns spanning multiple channels and continue overseeing their development and success as they come to fruition. Throughout the NFL season, I work to communicate gameday messaging as a major campaign, as well as handling the marketing for our Hall of Honor Museum, major events like Training Camp, and even charitable campaigns, like our Gameday Poster Series. I work cross-functionally with creative, digital, ticketing, partnerships, analytics, social, and stadium teams to deliver a cohesive brand experience and measurable impact for both the team and our fans.
- Duquesne University
- Marketing Intern - Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation
- Community Relations intern - Mario Lemieux Foundation
- Content Ambassador - Stuff To Do in Pittsburgh
- Event Assistant - Pittsburgh Planner
Jourdan Gottlieb
Social Media Manager, (LinkedIn)
I lead the day-to-day planning, creation and posting of content on Steelers social channels and ancillary accounts.
- Washington & Jefferson College
- Social Media Coordinator - Tennessee Titans
- New Media Graphics Coordinator - Pittsburgh Penguins
- Digital Media Intern - Pittsburgh Steelers
Jenna Harner
Anchor and Sports Director, WPXI-TV
I am an award-winning anchor for WPXI-TV. This March, I made Pittsburgh sports history becoming the first female Sports Director for the NBC affiliate. I anchor and report daily sportscasts both in the field and in the studio, and conduct in-depth interviews with athletes, coaches and sports analysts. My reporting has earned recognition across the industry, including a regional Edward R. Murrow award and a regional Emmy award.
- Graduate of Ithica College
- Began professional career in broadcasting at WENY-TV in Elmira, New York, before moving to WIVB in Buffalo, covering the Bills, Sabres and University of Buffalo athletics
- Anchored Channel 11's coverage of the Steelers, Penguins and Pirates over the past six years before being promoted to Sports Director
Chris Hart
Corporate Partnerships Manager, (LinkedIn)
I work with regional, national, and global brands to build strategic partnerships with one of the NFL's most iconic franchises. From localized activations to large-scale campaigns, I help partners connect with Steelers Nation in ways that support their business goals.
- University of Dayton
- Director of Corporate Partnerships - Dallas Stars
- Corporate Partnerships Manager - Detroit Pistons / Palace Sports & Entertainment
- Director of Partner Services - Oklahoma City RedHawks Minor League Baseball Team
- Senior Marketing Manager - Dayton Dragons Minor League Baseball Team
Cole Horan
Sr. Manager, Premium Hospitality, (LinkedIn)
I oversee the planning, sales, and game day execution of our Field Seats, single-game premium hospitality, and the new 1933 Club. My role focuses on driving new business across these premium offerings while building long-term relationships to ensure strong seasonal retention.
- Baldwin Wallace University
- Senior Account Executive, Group Sales - Tennessee Titans
- Account Executive, Business Development - New Jersey Devils
- Inside Sales Representative - Miami Heat
- Sponsorship and Gold Jacket Relations Intern - Pro Football Hall of Fame
- Marketing and Public Relations Intern - Washington Wild Things
SJ Hyman
Performance Marketing Coordinator, (LinkedIn)
I spearhead integrated, data-driven media strategies across Paid, Owned, and Earned channels. I continuously evaluate campaign outcomes, track key performance benchmarks, and translate insights into recommendations that inform ongoing content development and maximize marketing impact.
- Columbia University - Barnard College
- Digital Media Coordinator, Paid Social - AEG Sports Ltd
- Social Media Consultant, Global - Washington Wizards
Emile Khoury
Senior Manager, Creative Content, (LinkedIn)
I produce and manage various video projects year-round. As one of our cinematographers for games, sit-down interviews, branded & off-the-field content, I provide high-quality imagery for our highlights, documentaries, docuseries, social media and scoreboard videos. As a lead producer/director/editor, I manage our 'A Steelers Story' series, player highlights, season kickoff videos, #HereWeGo weekly matchup hypes, Sights & Sounds cinematic game recaps, scoreboard game opens and defense pumper videos. I also direct our specialty shoots, including the annual Media Days Light Box, Schedule Release video, Color Rush/Throwback jersey announcements, etc.
- Waynesburg University
- Production Assistant - NFL Films
- Production Assistant - ESPN, NBC, FOX, CBS, NFL Network
- Associate Director - WTAE-TV Pittsburgh
- Public Affairs Photojournalist - PA Air National Guard
Spencer Krock
Football Communications Coordinator, Baltimore Ravens, (LinkedIn)
This will be my fifth NFL season and second season as the Ravens' Football Communications Coordinator. I inform the media and community about the endeavors of the team through the creating, writing and dissemination of all team publications and football information materials, including player/coach biographies, press releases, transactions, media guides, transcripts, and weekly game releases. I also serve as the department's primary statistician, tracking player/team milestones, records and statistics. Throughout the season and on gamedays, I support media operations by facilitating interviews of players and coaches with the local and national media.
Worked in the NFL, NBA and MLB, including internship roles with the Steelers (2024), Houston Texans (2023), Chicago Bears (2022), Chicago Bulls (2021), Texas Rangers (2020) and Detroit Tigers (2019)
Initially began working in PR/communications while pursuing master's degree at Valparaiso University, serving as a graduate assistant in Valparaiso's sports media relations department
Grew up in Peoria, Illinois, earning bachelor's degree in sports communications at Bradley University
Kyle Kron
Senior Manager, Digital & Social Content, (LinkedIn)
Through advanced and on-going planning, I assist in the overall development and execution of the Steelers' content strategy. I work with members of the content team to develop the team's content calendar and distribution schedule in addition to acting as a liaison between the Content team and other key business lines within the organization. I lead the social media team and serve as a content publisher, shooter, designer, and editor as needed.
- Miami University
- Director of Football Video Operations - Miami University
- Student Football Video Assistant - Miami University
Burt Lauten
Senior Director of Communications, (LinkedIn)
I am in my 22nd year with the Pittsburgh Steelers serving as the team spokesman on all football and team-related issues. I coordinate the communications department and manage the team's messaging while helping coordinate interviews, press conferences and press releases. My team handles all communications efforts between players, coaches and the media.
- 22nd year with Pittsburgh Steelers
- Native of Western PA, went to school at nearby Westminster College
- Worked previously with University of Pittsburgh's football team (2001-04)
- Started professional career at Miami (OH) University in its athletic department
Kristen Lewandowski
Director of Ticket Sales and Retention, (LinkedIn)
I oversee ticket sales and retention efforts, working in close collaboration with business analytics, marketing, and ticket operations. My key responsibilities include maximizing revenue and sell-through across all ticketing products, including season and single game inventory, and enhancing the value of season ticket membership.
- Washington & Jefferson College
- University of Pittsburgh
- Account Executive, New Business Development - Hibu
- Manager, Corporate Sales and Service / Executive Assistant - Pittsburgh Penguins
- Account Executive - Pittsburgh Pirates
- Web Content Producer - WPXI-TV
Mike Marchinsky
Sr. Manager of Alumni Relations & Youth Football, (LinkedIn)
I get to live within the entire football lifecycle by guiding the outreach and initiatives through Football Development starting with kids ages six through high school and then also with Steelers Alumni, who have reached the pinnacle of playing football. My team takes great pride in offering great programming to help promote and grow the game of football through events, opportunities, and experiences for players, coaches and parents. Since my start here in 1999, I have been involved in Steelers player relations, taking on the role of Alumni Relations in 2023.
- Robert Morris University
- Team Leader and Sales Rep - DialAmerica Marketing, Inc,
- High School Football Coach, Girls Flag Football Coach, Youth Football Coach
Missi Matthews
Sideline Reporter, Steelers Nation Radio, (LinkedIn)
I am an Emmy Award-Winning journalist who has covered the Pittsburgh Steelers as a reporter, host, and producer since 2012. I joined WDVE-FM, the flagship station of the Steelers Radio Network, as a sideline reporter and studio host beginning in 2018. I also hosted the Mike Tomlin Show on KDKA-TV through the 2025 season, and I serve as the sideline reporter for Steelers' preseason games, in addition to other hosting duties.
- University of Pittsburgh alumnus
- Began professional career in broadcasting with stints in Johnstown (WJAC-TV) and Harrisburg (FOX43-TV)
- Prior to working for the Steelers, worked at WTAE-TV as a sports reporter/producer
Emily Mears
Public Relations Coordinator, Jacksonville Jaguars, (LinkedIn)
I am entering my third season with the Jaguars as Public Relations Coordinator and my fifth season in the NFL. As Public Relations Coordinator, my primary responsibilities include facilitating media for players and coaches, performing statistical research for team publications and running point on media credentialing for the team.
- Pittsburgh native and University of Pittsburgh graduate
- Previously interned with the Pittsburgh Steelers (2022) and New York Giants (2023)
- Non-NFL experience includes time with the Pittsburgh Penguins and Pitt Athletics
Creg Milko
Social Media Creative Content Coordinator, (LinkedIn)
I am responsible for the development and execution of all design-related content on the team's social media platforms and am charged with ensuring the team's social media content is in accordance with the greater organizational creative guidelines. In addition to design, I am also one of the team's primary content gatherers for social media at Training Camp and on gamedays. In addition, I am a key contributor to the team's social media and content strategy.
- Waynesburg University
- Coordinator, New Media Content & Graphics - Pittsburgh Pirates
- Sports Information Assistant - Waynesburg University
- Sports Information Intern - California University of Pennsylvania
Hunter Miller
Event Marketing Specialist, (LinkedIn)
I am responsible for creating the run of show for Steelers marketing events and live game day activations. I coordinate the logistics for each event, including audio/visual production, script-writing, and set builds to ensure expectations are met with internal and external stakeholders.
- Carson-Newman University
- Game & Event Entertainment Associate - Minnesota Vikings
- Game Day Production Intern - San Francisco 49ers
- Game Entertainment Intern - Missoula Paddleheads
Justin Mitchell
Director of Marketing, (LinkedIn)
I lead the club's campaign, performance, relationship, platform, growth, and event marketing efforts while also helping guide the Steelers' creative and brand strategy.
- Penn State University
- Assistant Director of Marketing - Seattle Seahawks
- Marketing and Promotions - Philadelphia Eagles
- Business Office Intern - CBS Radio
Michael Murphy
Sr. Manager of Creative Services, (LinkedIn)
With 20 + years of experience in the marketing/creative service industry, I lead the creative vision across all areas of graphic design and brand strategy to support the organization's marketing and content channels. In this role, I lead a talented team of designers to communicate a brand vision and creative direction that supports our season needs: football, business lines, marketing events and the greater team presentation. My day-to-day involves partnering with key Steelers department stakeholders to understand their annual needs and develop creative solutions that will provide them with impactful graphic design and strategies that will help them achieve their goals on all organization owned and operated platforms.
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- Creative Director - Washington and Jefferson College
- Art Director - Krome Communications/Chemistry Agency
Christian Plonski
Direct Marketing Specialist, (LinkedIn)
I execute direct marketing strategy across the organization, partnering with stakeholders across the entire organization. I leverage audience segmentation, journey optimization, and automation to drive engagement, operational efficiency, and day-to-day platform execution.
- Carthage College
- International Marketing Consultant - Carthage College MS Business Design & Innovation
- Revenue Marketing Intern - Minnesota Wild
Lexie Rains
Assistant Merchandise Manager - Apparel & Footwear, (LinkedIn)
I analyze sales performance, trends, and business needs to build future buys of apparel and footwear, with a specific focus on women's and youth apparel to ensure we're meeting the needs of those key customer segments. I manage inventory allocation across three brick-and-mortar stores and e-commerce, closely monitoring stock levels and partnering with vendors to chase high-performing styles or fill assortment gaps as needed. I also help develop exclusive special make-up (SMU) products that differentiate our Pro Shop within the Pittsburgh Steelers retail market.
- Kent State University
- Men's Bottoms Merchant - Rue 21
- Business Development Assistant Manager - Dick's Sporting Goods
- Footwear Assistant Buyer - Dick's Sporting Goods
- Sales Intern - Buckle
Karl Roser
Senior Manager of Photography, Team Photographer, (LinkedIn)
I oversee all photography for the organization, both new and historical. I ensure adequate coverage of game days and events, employing in-house photographers, editors, and freelancers. Facilitating the systems, workflows, and archives surrounding a large-scale collection of imagery and their delivery to stake holders.
Jason Seidling
Director of Team Operations, Pittsburgh Penguins, (LinkedIn)
I manage the logistical and operational needs of the players and coaching staff, ensuring smooth day-to-day functions for the team. I am responsible for the extensive administrative framework that allows players and coaching staff to focus exclusively on on-ice performance including team travel, scheduling and communication, player transitions and family engagement among other areas.
- Saint Vincent College alumni
- Has been with the Penguins nearly 17 years, and has been a part of three Stanley Cups (2009, 2016, 2017)
- Spent nearly a decade in the team's media relations department, before transitioning to current role in 2019
Amy Siebenkittel
Assistant Director of Corporate Partnership Activation, (LinkedIn)
Leads the strategy of the activation team by overseeing all aspects associated with the lifecycle of a partnership. From the day-to-day management to the planning and execution of partnership elements, the activation team builds strong client relationships with corporate partners through high-level customer service and consultation regarding each partners' marketing goals and business objectives with a goal of revenue growth through renewals and upselling.
- Saint Louis University
- Regional Marketing Manager - Tim Hortons
- Partnership Account Specialist & Ticket Sales Coordinator - Columbus Blue Jackets
- Ticket Sales & Service Assistant - Cleveland Cavaliers
Erika Siegel
Senior Manager of Guest Experience, (LinkedIn)
I oversee all game day guest services team members, manage daily stadium tour operations, and lead professional development initiatives for emerging talent through the stadium internship program and the Stadium Event Assistant program.
- Niagara University
- Coordinator of Guest Services - Buffalo Bills
Jordan Spagnolli
Communications Intern, (LinkedIn)
I help coordinate the team's media operations, including interviews, press conferences, and player availability. I contribute to the writing of and editing press releases, weekly release, player and coach bios, gameday magazines, and transcripts. During the season, I help run gameday media operations, including managing the press box/media room, overseeing our gameday staff, and handling sideline injury updates.
- Penn State University alumnus
- Communications Director - CommAgency
- Curator Copy Editor - Hearst National Desk
- Anchor/Reporter - Centre County Report
Megan Stepnoski
Merchandise Manager - Apparel & Footwear, (LinkedIn)
As Merchandise Manager for apparel, footwear, and designer brands, I oversee buying, allocation, and merchandising across our e-commerce site, retail stores, and stadium locations. I curate product assortments, purchase merchandise that connects with fans, and drive sales and profitability across channels. My key responsibilities include hitting sales plans, gross margin targets, and inventory goals while managing product selection, open-to-buy, supply chain, and inventory levels to ensure the right products are available at the right time.
- Mercyhurst University
- Associate Buyer, rue + tops - Rue 21
- Product Development Technician - Rue 21
Andrew Stockey
Anchor and Sports Director, WTAE-TV, (LinkedIn)
I am a tenured anchor for Pittsburgh's Action News 4 and serve at the network's Sports Director. I am also a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor selection committee and the Pittsburgh Penguins Hall of Fame voting committee. I have been honored with multiple awards for my work over my three-plus decades in Pittsburgh's news and sports landscape.
- Graduate of Ohio University
- Has been at WTAE-TV since 1995
- Chicago native and grew up in Simsbury, Connecticut
Angela Tegnelia
Communications Manager, (LinkedIn)
I am in my tenth season with the Steelers and my third as the Communications Manager in 2026. I coordinate communications efforts between key players, coaches and the media. I also handle all media outreach surrounding players' community efforts and Hall of Fame campaigns, and serve as the main point of contact for media credentialing. In 2025, I took on a second role, managing guest booking for the Not Just Football podcast with Cam Heyward.
- Native of Daytona Beach, Florida, and University of Florida alumnus
- Previous NFL experience includes time with the New England Patriots, Cleveland Browns and Oakland Raiders
- Outside of the League, has held various roles with FGCU Athletics, the Golden State Warriors and the Florida Panthers
John Wolfe
Vice President of Merchandising & Digital Commerce, (LinkedIn)
I lead and oversee the Steelers Merchandise Department in every aspect from the Digital Commerce Business to the brick and mortar locations. I am responsible for developing the annual financial plan and providing direction to my team to achieve our goals.
- Penn State UniversityÂ
- Chief Customer Officer - First Insight, Inc.
- Board of Directors - American Textile Company
- Senior Vice President GMM - Dick's Sporting Goods
Brittany Zeman
Senior Manager of Campaign Marketing, (LinkedIn)
I oversee the development, execution and optimization of multi-channel marketing strategies to drive brand awareness, fan engagement and revenue--leveraging insights, digital platforms, and continuous process improvement to maximize performance while supporting our organizational goals.
- Bethany College
- Senior Digital Marketing Production Analyst - Highmark
- CRM Email Marketing Analyst - Dick's Sporting Goods
- Traffic Manager/Account Executive - Caps Lock Communications