NFL Executive Shares Insights with Ole Miss Students

Renie Anderson, a 1997 Ole Miss graduate, spoke Sept. 3 in Fulton Chapel as a guest of the university's Finance Club and Women in Business chapter. She discussed how her career developed by taking advantage of opportunities, including working in athletics, moving to Los Angeles at age 22 and eventually relocating to New York City. 

“You have to be comfortable being uncomfortable,” she said. “The moments that challenge you are often the moments that help you grow the most. I think it's all about the experience; I take the skills I had, and I'm able to translate that. I tell stories when I'm selling.”

Anderson did not initially dream of a career in professional sports, but shortly after graduating from Ole Miss, she landed a job as a receptionist and secretary to David Baker, commissioner of the Arena Football League. She worked for Baker for two years, gaining experience in sponsorship sales and consumer products.

“Renie’s story is a great example of how far belief in yourself can get you,” said Marshall Farnham, a junior general business and public policy leadership major from Chester Springs, Pennsylvania and one of the co-presidents of the Finance Club. 

“Personally, I found that Renie’s experience of taking what people would assume is a weakness, and using as a strength is something that really resonated with me. I think her story exemplifies the spirit and culture I’ve seen at Ole Miss, one of grit, drive, and undeniable work ethic pairing together to create a successful career.”

Drawing from her own experience, Anderson discussed the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry. 

“I’ve always been a little naïve," she said. "I never thought that being a woman had any way to hold me back.” 

Anderson's story has lessons for many of the students who attended, said McClain Schieltz, a junior general business and sports management major from Overland Park, Kansas, also one of the co-presidents of the Ole Miss Finance Club.

“She provided a different take on business and finance than most speakers, with her corporate climb through the NFL,” Schieltz said.

Elena McDonough, president of Women in Business and a junior accounting major from Palm Beach, Florida, found Anderson relatable. 

“Renie Anderson is a perfect example of how far hard work, grit, and confidence can take you,” said McDonough. “One of the things that stood out to me most was the way she spoke about embracing being a woman in a male-dominated industry and using it as a strength rather than seeing it as a limitation. 

“This really stood out to me because so much of what we try to encourage in Women in Business is recognizing that being a woman is a real strength that brings a unique perspective to the table. On behalf of Women in Business, we are extremely grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Ole Miss Finance Club to host Ms. Renie Anderson and such a special event.”

This fall, Anderson enters her 21st season with the NFL.

“Ole Miss played an important role in shaping who I am personally and professionally, so it's always special to come back,” Anderson said in closing about her visit to campus. “I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences, connect with students and give back to a place that gave so much to me. Hotty Toddy!"