Privateers Athletics announces staff promotions and additions

NEW ORLEANS – New Orleans Athletics announced today the promotion and reorganization of four external staff members. Kelvin Queliz joins the executive staff and will oversee communications, creative and marketing, and become the sport administrator for golf, Megan Steinmetz will be the Director of Marketing & Promotions, Ryan Ellinghausen moves to Ticket Sales & Database Coordinator, and Brandon Rizzuto returns to the Lakefront to assist in Privateers Sports Marketing.

“I’m extremely excited to see Kelvin, Megan and Ryan ascend into these new roles,” said Steve Stroud, Deputy Athletic Director/Chief Development & Revenue Officer. “They have worked extremely hard to grow and promote the University of New Orleans Athletics department and have earned these promotions. I’m excited to see their continued growth and am thrilled that they will continue to serve #NOLAsTeam.”

KELVIN QUELIZ
Queliz joined the Privateers in September of 2017 as the Assistant Athletic Director for Communications & New Media. Overseeing digital, Queliz led the Privateers to a social media revamp, along with the redesigned UNOPrivateers.com. While leading the communications office, Queliz is the sports information director for men’s basketball and beach volleyball.

“The added responsibilities are a testament to our external push,” said Queliz. “I am excited to become the sport administrator for a golf team that is coming off several program records and to continue to strategically tell the #NOLAsTeam story.”

MEGAN STEINMETZ
Steinmetz is entering her fifth season on the Lakefront and first as Director of Marketing and Promotions. A member of the Senior Staff, Steinmetz will coordinate all marketing activities and lead promotional efforts.

“I started my career at UNO four years ago because I saw the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally,” said Steinmetz. “I chose to work in sports to create lifelong memories for our student-athletes, alumni and fans. I’m thankful to continue this journey as the Director of Marketing and Promotions.”

RYAN ELLINGHAUSEN
Ellinghausen joined the Privateers in January 2019 following a stint with the NC State ticket office.

“I am excited to take on this new role within the Athletic Department,” said Ellinghausen. “I look forward to continuing to find ways to support and grow the #NOLAsTeam brand. I am thankful for the opportunity.”

BRANDON RIZZUTO
A New Orleans alum, Rizzuto spent two seasons as the Assistant Athletic Director for the Privateers. He was the former General Manager of the New Orleans VooDoo and Vice President, and is currently in sales. As a student at UNO, Rizzuto and the UNO Ambassadors started Swampball – a six on six mud volleyball tournament – in the spring of 2006 and the event has steadily grown to be one of the campus’ premier student events. Rizzuto was instrumental in the rebrand of the current Privateer logo identity. He will assist with corporate sponsorship.

SOCIAL MEDIA
Fans are encouraged to follow @UNOPrivateers on Twitter, @UNOPrivateers on Instagram, like /UNOPrivateers on Facebook and subscribe to the UNOPrivateers YouTube channel.