Savannah Hollis, a graduate of Lipscomb’s communications department, talked about her job with an NHL franchise and offered advice to current students during a Media Masters event.
Media Masters is a series, sponsored by the department, that brings communications professionals “face-to-face” with Lipscomb students. This time, the event was held via Zoom.
Hollis now works for the NHL’s Seattle Kraken team, managing their social media accounts. Hollis talked about her love for sports, especially hockey, a love which began when she was a child.
During her time at Lipscomb, she originally had her sights set on a degree in psychology and soon realized that communications was more for her.
She said that after joining the communications department, she became well prepared for this field. Hollis added that the professors helped her to find internship opportunities that led to some lifelong connections.
“After learning about all the different paths you can take within communications, there was an opportunity to work in PR for a sports team. I don’t know many people who dream of working in PR for a sports team,” said Hollis. “ I never even considered that an option, I was really lucky to have that door opened up for me through Lipscomb. Mark McGee made quite a few introductions for me and helped me get on board with the Nashville Predators, and that’s where I got my start.”
Hollis added, “Now I’m working for an expansion team in the NHL, you know managing their social media, helping on the PR side, and helping with the digital side.”
Hollis stressed to students the importance of being professional and of always being prepared. She also emphasized that, as communicators, you should be constantly striving to learn more.
“Being as well rounded as you can is going to be the best way to move forward. I think the time for having a super-specialized skill set is starting to move past us. Organizations are looking for people who do a little bit of everything and pitch in when needed,” said Hollis.
Hollis gave more recommendations to students: “Having a sense of understanding and empathy for anyone you come into contact with is so valuable. Especially right now, we’re in a tumultuous time where people don’t want to empathize or listen to each other. It’s important that we learn how to listen to each other.”
Hollis continues to navigate these strange times as hockey season was halted due to a spike in COVID-19 numbers. Hopeful that better days are ahead, Hollis continues to work with her passion for telling compelling stories through social media.