Posted December 3, 2024

Alumni weigh in on Klein’s new sports media major

Owls in sports media discussed Temple's impact on the industry and how the new major will lead to more graduates working in the field.

Image of Kevin Negandhi speaking at a summit event on Main Campus.
Photography By: 
Joseph V. Labolito
Kevin Negandhi is the 6 PM anchor of ESPN’s SportsCenter and a 1998 graduate from Klein.

On Oct. 8, Temple approved a bachelor of arts in sports media. The new program, housed in the Klein College of Media and Communication, will take an interdisciplinary approach to preparing students for a diverse range of jobs in the field, from broadcasters and journalists to social media managers, advertisers and sports public relations professionals. 

The new degree program is just the latest effort in Temple’s long and celebrated tradition of preparing graduates for jobs in the sports media industry. Hear what some of our alumni had to say about Temple’s impact on the sports media industry, and why the new degree program is a big deal. 

 

“I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without the strong foundation of knowledge and perseverance that Temple University and the Klein College of Media and Communication built within me. Temple has grown so many successful sports journalists throughout the years, and a sports media program will only expand and enrich the possibilities for future journalists in the years to come.”—Breland Moore, KLN ’14, journalist, sports anchor and cohost of The 215 on FOX29 Philadelphia 

“The best decision I made in my broadcasting career was going to Temple University. Whether it’s nationally, regionally or within the city, you quickly realize that Klein graduates are everywhere in the sports media business. The new sports media program will prepare the next generation of Owls to continue to evolve and have an even bigger impact within this ever-changing industry.”—Kevin Negandhi, KLN ’98, anchor for ESPN 

“In every job I’ve had, whether an internship or post-graduate, I’ve worked directly with a Temple Owl. Every Owl I’ve encountered has told me they are working in their dream role, and it’s all possible because of Temple. For me, I landed dream roles with Sports Illustrated, the Philadelphia Eagles and NBC’s Beijing Winter Olympics less than a year out of graduation. From day one, Temple immerses you in such valuable hands-on experience and instruction from world-class faculty for you to know how to do it all. Temple is well-represented in every major sports team and department in Philadelphia, and creating the new sports media major is so reflective of Temple’s impact in the industry.”—Brynna Haupt, KLN ’21, producer/editor for PHLY and video editor for Bleacher Report 

“My education as a communications major at Temple and the actual experience gained on the student station were key factors in my success. The establishment of a sports media major will greatly aid dedicated students who are prepared to take advantage of their career opportunities.”—Merrill Reese, KLN ’64, play-by-play announcer for the Philadelphia Eagles 

“I’m so excited to see Temple’s addition of the sports media major! Klein is such a special place that has truly paved its own way in the industry. I can’t wait to see what future Owls bring to the sports media landscape on air, in print and everywhere in between.”—Alexa Ross, KLN ’18, sports anchor/reporter for CBS4 and FOX59 

“I owe so much to Temple University for a well-rounded introduction to sports journalism and sports media. I had an incredible experience on North Broad Street, and I would not be where I am without my alma mater. And the great thing about Temple is the opportunities to intern at some great TV stations and sports media outlets in Philly—the most passionate sports city in the country. Temple has an incredible roster of professors who know what it takes to advance in the sports journalism industry. I’m Temple made and Temple proud.”—John Clark, KLN ’98, sports reporter for NBC Sports Philadelphia 

“From the Olympic team to the NCAA and to the collegiate institutions I’ve been a part of, Temple has been at the core of my journey. Temple helped me become the storyteller I am today, and it gave me the skills to lead our content creators. Thanks to Temple, I understand my worth in the nonstop, ever-changing landscape of sports. The addition of a sports media major is going to help the next generation of storytellers hone their craft, celebrate the place of sport in our community and help bring people together through these powerful stories.”—Sarah Higgins, KLN ’12, assistant athletics director, creative content and branding for Penn State Athletics