Welcoming Remarks & Opening Keynote | 2023 and Beyond: The Future of Esports in Higher Education

Esports in higher education is on the brink of another colossal wave - the pace of NCAA D1 institutions creating varsity programs is on the rise. About 80 percent of students involved in their varsity esports program are not involved in other activities on campus and keeping those students engaged is critical as we come toward the higher education cliff. The marketability of esports on the professional level has exploded and is receiving sponsorships and partnerships with global brands both endemic and non-endemic. What does this mean for universities and colleges? These topics and more will be discussed.