TicketsCINCINNATI — The University of Cincinnati Athletics Department announced the return of its name, image and likeness (NIL) event, In Her Likeness, on Monday, Oct. 26, from 6-9 p.m.
The event, held in Nippert Stadium’s West Pavilion Lounge, is aimed at empowering female student-athletes by equipping them with the tools and resources they need to thrive in the rapidly evolving NIL landscape. It is the only NIL event in the country for female student-athletes, and the only one where they activate deals on-site.
Six brands will be in attendance: Superior Credit Union, Sure Smile, Tampax, Wellness City, CBTS and Campus Ink. There are also 11 in-kind sponsorships: Poppi, Dove, Tarte Cosmetics, LMNT, Pepsi, TIY, gorjana, b.Tan, Bubble Skincare, Refresh Wellness and Funday Sweets. Food sponsors include Hot Heads, Nothing Bundt Cakes and Better Blend.
Last year’s event secured more than $57,000 and generated 880 NIL deals for UC’s female student-athletes. This year, the department projects results that will exceed those of last year.
“In Her Likeness is so special because we get to be in a room full of women who are all navigating NIL in our own ways,” senior tennis student-athlete Gabrielle Guenther said. “Everyone has a different platform, story, and perspective. It’s a great reminder that NIL isn’t meant to look the same for every athlete and there’s so much value in being yourself and finding opportunities that align with your values.”
The program includes five educational sessions led by top brands that will offer guidance on personal branding, self-marketing and exploring revenue-generating opportunities. Through networking with industry leaders, UC’s female student-athletes will gain insights into maximizing their NIL potential, from social media strategies to brand partnerships and entrepreneurial endeavors.
“In Her Likeness is one of my favorite parts about being a female athlete at UC,” junior swimming student-athlete Kate Mardis said. “Getting to hang out with other athletes while listening to industry professionals that support our athletic department is really special. I also love opening the goodie bags and see what the companies we get to connect with from this event.”
In Her Likeness offers female student-athletes a space to network, learn and share experiences, fostering collaboration and personal growth. The initiative also positions UC as a leader in organic NIL strategies for women in sports. Through strategic social media campaigns and earned media, UC Athletics amplifies the voices of its female athletes, helping their success extend beyond their time at the university.
For more information on the event, including how to get involved, contact Eddie Taylor, Cincinnati's Assistant AD of Athlete Partnerships, at eddie.taylor@uc.edu and Grace Diederich, Assistant Director of Athlete Partnerships, at grace.diederich@uc.edu.