In what other class would I get the opportunity to Skype with my former teammate and learn about her new career with the Dallas Mavericks? This is why I love my social media class. Monday morning we had the privilege of hearing Lizelle Lauron (@letstelllizelle) speak on her new position as the Dallas Mavericks Social Media Coordinator.
For the past two years, Lizelle and I were teammates on the Ladybirds Dance Team. On a personal level I can honestly say she is one of the most upbeat and positive people I’ve ever come across. She has a unique drive and determination for herself, so it is no surprise to me the amount of success she has achieved this past year.
Lizelle grew up as a Mavericks fan living in Dallas, Texas and transferred to the University of Louisville in 2011. In her two years here, she not only danced as a Ladybird but interned in the athletic department under Nick Stover with social media. She majored in Communications and minored in Sport Administration, and was in my seat as a Freberg student exactly one year ago. Upon moving back home after graduation, Lizelle encountered a rare opportunity to meet the Mavericks’ Social Media director, Stephen Chavera (@Stevallica). Eventually this led her to receive an internship opportunity beginning in August, and on November 1st, 2013 she was hired with the Mavericks full-time.
Within her new career, Lizelle’s responsibilities include much of what we learn about in class. She attends every practice and game, posting behind-the-scenes content through the Mavericks’ social media platforms including their Twitter, Facebook, Vine, and SnapChat accounts. One thing Lizelle spoke about which I found the most interesting was their recent strategy of hiring two “Vine Guys” to take over the Mavericks’ Vine account (@DallasMavs). She simply came across two popular vine sensations living in the Dallas area, emailed them, then hired them onto the social media team. The “Vine Guys” now attend each game posting their own behind-the-scenes content and adding their personal entertaining twists. The Mavericks have found these vines to go viral, receiving thousands upon thousands of likes and revines.
Lizelle inspires me not only as a friend, but as a professional role model. Her career with the Dallas Mavericks serves as proof that setting your mind to achieve your dreams is possible – no matter how old you are. I share the same interests as Lizelle, from dancing to working within the sport industry. Her work with the Mavericks motivates me even more to achieve my own dreams as a Sport Administration student. I am beyond proud of Lizelle and the success she continues to achieve. Hopefully we will reunite in Dallas as Louisville basketball reaches the Final Four next month!