The speaker for this ceremony was Kent State alumna Christine A. Plonsky, athletic director for the University of Texas. Plonsky has worked in college athletics since 1976 and is in her 27th year at the University of Texas. Since 2001, she has served as the University of Texas’ third women’s athletics director. Since 1993, she has supervised men’s and women’s athletics revenue areas in sponsorships, TV and trademark licensing. University of Texas athletics supervisors in student services-academics and sports medicine/athletic training also report to her. Plonsky oversees the Longhorn Network, a linear channel collaboration between the University of Texas, multimedia rights agency IMG College and worldwide sports leader ESPN. The Longhorn Network, now in its fifth year, is available to 20 million homes nationwide and features 170 live events annually, including University of Texas academic content.