(Grand Rapids, Mich. – June 6, 2025) – Jake Daugherty, Manager, Collegiate Partnerships at Opendorse and former Ferris State Football student-athlete, will return to the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) as a featured presenter at the 2025 GLIAC SAAC Retreat. Held July 25–26 in Grand Rapids, Mich., Daugherty will lead a session focused on helping student-athletes navigate and maximize their opportunities in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era of college athletics.
Daugherty’s session will explore how Division II athletes can build their personal brands, pursue meaningful NIL opportunities, and protect themselves from scams and misinformation. Drawing from both his experience as a former GLIAC student-athlete and his work with schools across the country, Daugherty will provide guidance to attendees on how to make NIL work for them.
“As someone who competed in this conference and knows the caliber of its athletes, I’m honored to return and share insights that help GLIAC student-athletes take ownership of their future,” said Daugherty. “NIL isn’t just for power four schools; it’s for any athlete willing to understand their value and tell their story.”
“The GLIAC is excited to feature Jake and Opendorse as part of our annual SAAC Retreat. His insights will aid in empowering our student-athletes to take control of their personal brands, build individual value, and unlock opportunities in this rapidly evolving space. We’re in the midst of a transformational moment in college athletics, and events such as this help to maintain the GLIAC’s place at the forefront by keeping our student-athletes informed and energized,” said GLIAC Commissioner Kris Dunbar.
The GLIAC SAAC Retreat annually brings together student-athlete representatives from across the conference for leadership development, discussion on key issues, and shared community. This year’s session on NIL education is a meaningful step forward in ensuring GLIAC athletes are informed, empowered, and ready for what’s next.
About Opendorse
Opendorse is the technology, data, and service platform powering the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) industry for colleges, collectives, consumers, and commercial partners. More than 150,000 athlete influencers use Opendorse to build, promote, and monetize their personal brands through the largest athlete media network.
For media inquiries, contact Opendorse SVP, Collegiate Services & Marketing Julian Valentin at julian.valentin@opendorse.com.
