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Vincennes University

VU Athletics Names Emma Deaton as First Director of Athletic Communications

VU Athletics Names Emma Deaton as First Director of Athletic Communications
June 19, 2026

VINCENNES, Ind. – Vincennes University Athletics has announced the hiring of Emma Deaton as its first Director of Athletic Communications, a newly envisioned position that reflects the department's commitment to elevating storytelling, strengthening brand visibility, and enhancing engagement with Trailblazer student-athletes, alumni, and supporters.

Deaton officially began her role on June 15 and will oversee all aspects of athletic communications, media relations, digital content, social media strategy, publications, and historical archives for VU Athletics.

The transition from the department's traditional Sports Information Director model to Director of Athletic Communications represents a strategic shift toward a broader, more comprehensive communications approach centered on storytelling, brand development, and audience engagement.

"Emma emerged from an outstanding candidate pool and quickly demonstrated a passion for storytelling, creativity, and a genuine appreciation for the impact athletics can have on people's lives," said VU Director of Athletics John Meeks. "At Vincennes University, we have a tremendous story to tell—not only about the success happening within our programs today, but also about the rich history and tradition that have shaped Trailblazer Athletics for generations. Our goal is to tell that story better than ever before, and Emma's skill set, energy, and vision make her an ideal fit to help us accomplish that mission."

A native of Shelbyville, Indiana, Deaton recently graduated from Ball State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Media with a concentration in Broadcast and Storytelling and a minor in Sports Studies. During her time at Ball State, she gained extensive experience in sports media, content creation, live production, and on-air broadcasting.

Deaton served as an on-air host and production team member for Cardinal Sports Live, helping preview and recap Ball State athletic events while contributing to technical production, script writing, and live broadcasts. She also worked as a sports anchor and reporter for NewsLink Indiana, where she reported, wrote, edited, and delivered sports content while covering athletes and events in fast-paced newsroom environments. Additionally, she completed a summer internship with Cumulus Media's 99.5 ZPL in Indianapolis, gaining valuable experience in content production, audience engagement, and live event coverage.

In her new role, Deaton will serve as the primary storyteller for Trailblazer Athletics, overseeing communications efforts across the department's 12 intercollegiate sports while promoting student-athletes, coaches, alumni, and the broader VU community.

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join Vincennes University as Director of Athletic Communications," Deaton said. "Every experience throughout my journey has helped prepare me for this role, and I am honored to become part of an institution with such a rich history and proud athletic tradition. My faith has taught me the importance of using my gifts to serve others, and I look forward to sharing the stories of the student-athletes, coaches, and people who make Trailblazer Athletics so special. I'm excited to help celebrate the past, highlight the present, and contribute to the future of Vincennes University Athletics."

Deaton's hiring marks another significant step in the continued growth of Vincennes University Athletics as the department expands its efforts to increase visibility, enhance fan engagement, preserve its historic legacy, and provide meaningful exposure for its student-athletes and programs.

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