Nike Brand Manager Marci Kolar to Headline Montana State Regional AMA Conference as Keynote Speaker
Annual three-day event featuring panels, competitions, and speakers taking place Feb. 12-14
BOZEMAN, Mont. – Jan. 20, 2026 – The student chapter of the American Marketing Association (AMA) at Montana State University will host Marci Kolar, Nike Brand Manager for the NFL and MLB, as the keynote speaker for its sixth annual Regional AMA Conference from 10-10:45 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 13 in the Procrastinator Theater on the MSU campus. During her keynote, Kolar will share insights from her career in sports branding and marketing at one of the world’s most influential athletic brands. All members of the MSU community are welcome to attend.
“Marci Kolar brings a level of industry experience that’s rare for students to access,” said Jack
Hays, President of the MSU AMA chapter. “Her work at the intersection of sport, culture, and branding offers students a firsthand look at how global campaigns are built and executed.”
In her role at Nike, Kolar oversees brand strategy for the NFL and MLB, helping guide how the company engages fans, athletes, and leagues at a global level. Her work spans athlete partnerships, league collaborations, and large-scale marketing initiatives that influence how sport is presented and experienced worldwide. Kolar plays a key role in advancing Nike’s position as a leader in sports marketing and brand innovation.
The conference will also feature Mike Spiak of Spiak Coaching , who will share insights on leadership personal values, and your personal brand, and Keith Lauver of Atomic Elevator who will lead a session and competition on the use of AI in marketing. Two panels are scheduled as well – one on Data in Marketing and another on Brand Management – that feature professionals from companies such as PepsiCo, Delta Airlines, and Ford Motor Co.
In addition, students will have the opportunity to compete in Marketing Strategy, Perfect Pitch, a Design Sprint Challenge, and the previously mentioned AI competition. The conference will conclude with a day at Bridger Bowl Ski Area, giving students and professionals the opportunity to connect outside the classroom.
“This conference includes so many amazing speakers and competitions, making it an event you don’t want to miss,” said Leah Gingras, the VP of Programs for AMA. “Having the opportunity to learn from professionals who work at such well-known companies like Nike and Pepsi is an amazing opportunity.”
The American Marketing Association at Montana State is MSU’s student chapter of the AMA. We prepare students for their professional careers through empowering experiences that develop strong networks, personal growth, and ethical leadership with a community-oriented focus. Membership in the AMA at MSU is open to all students of any major. For more information about AMA at Montana State please visit www.amamontanastate.org
Montana State AMA Contacts:
Ella Kunze
VP of Communications, AMA
ellaclaire0710@gmail.com
Eric Van Steenburg
Faculty Advisor, AMA
eric.vansteenburg@montana.edu