LAKE CHARLES – Social Media Explosion!!!!
 
That's been the result the past year for the McNeese Athletics social media platforms. In one year's time, McNeese Athletic social media sites (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok) have gained over 40-thousand followers and nearly 4-million impressions.
 
The McNeese Creative team's roster includes Phillip "PJ" Mitchell, Director of Creative; Jennifer Greene, Director of Marketing and Fan Engagement; and Leighton Chamblee, Photographer and Digital Media Assistant. The department is part of the McNeese Athletics Communications office, headed by Associate AD for Athletics Communications Matthew Bonnette and assistant Pam Lafosse.
 
Mitchell, Greene and Chamblee produce all video and graphic content for all 14 of McNeese's athletic programs.
 
"The rebranding of our Athletic Department through social media has been a huge goal of mine from the first day I took over as the Athletic Director," said AD Heath Schroyer. "We were simply way behind the times in this area. We invested time and some resources in the office and we have seen a major improvement.
 
"What Matthew's team – PJ, Jennifer and Leighton, have done has been nothing short of amazing. We meet every week and develop a plan for each week. We are just getting started and I'm so excited about this area of our department and where it is headed."
 
Several of McNeese's video content has gone viral the past year and has been featured on numerous national accounts while photos have been tabbed multiple times as "Photos of the Week" by national outlets.
 
"This is an extremely hard-working crew," said Bonnette. "What this three-person crew puts out each and every week rivals with major school athletic departments who have upwards of 10 or more staff. Heath has allowed us to do things we haven't been able to in the past whether it was because of resources or equipment. He knows how important social media is to engage with our fans, boosters, alumni, etc. and to get the word out about McNeese Athletics."