Florida A&M University alumna Nyeja Skye Warner is building a career in the sports industry, focusing on supporting student-athletes and creating opportunities for women interested in sports management and football operations, according to a March 26 announcement.
Warner’s path into athletics leadership began at Florida A&M University (FAMU), where she initially pursued a major that did not suit her. After discussions with Bettye A. Grable, an associate professor at FAMU’s School of Journalism & Graphic Communication, Warner discovered her strengths in storytelling and connecting with people could lead to a communications and sports career. “After failing chemistry, I started exploring other majors and what would work best for me,” Warner said. “Once I found public relations, I spoke with my professor, Dr. Grable, and she made me fall in love with journalism and the public relations industry. So, I stuck with it.”
Her experience as a cheerleader gave her insight into athletics operations by allowing her to see the preparation required behind the scenes before games. Through this role, she developed communication and networking skills by interacting with athletes, coaches, and staff members.
During an internship working closely with players at FAMU’s athletics communications department under Vaughn Wilson—former assistant athletic director for sports information—Warner gained hands-on experience producing events and supporting media coverage for athletic programs. Wilson said Warner quickly distinguished herself through leadership and initiative: “To be successful in sports management, you must be competitive,” Wilson said. “She showed that early on as a cheerleader.”
After graduating from FAMU, Warner earned her Master of Business Administration from Clark Atlanta University while continuing to focus on football operations. She became the first woman to serve as director of football operations at Clark Atlanta University—a milestone in her career.
Tara Turner, who supervised Warner during an executive internship with HBCU ELITE before becoming her mentor, praised Warner’s commitment: “Over time she became a true student of the game…that commitment has strengthened her confidence…and elevated the way she leads,” Turner said.
Currently at Georgia State University working in player personnel and recruiting operations, Warner coordinates recruiting events and helps prospective student-athletes transition into collegiate athletics. She continues to advocate for women pursuing careers in sports management while providing support for athletes both on- and off-field.
