TOLEDO, Ohio – Andrew Stevens has been named Associate Athletic Director for Marketing, Digital Advertising and Student Engagement at the University of Toledo, Deputy Athletic Director/CRO
Connor Whelan announced today. Stevens joins the Rockets after serving as Assistant Director of Fan Experience at Mississippi State University, where he served as the primary fan experience contact for football and men's basketball.
Stevens brings a wealth of hands-on experience in game presentation, in-venue production, and strategic marketing campaigns. In his new role at Toledo, he will lead the department's marketing and fan experience initiatives, focusing on growing attendance, creating a dynamic gameday atmosphere, and developing innovative ways to engage fans, students, alumni, and the broader Toledo community. Stevens will also oversee the Rocket Marching band and spirit groups.
"Throughout my time at Mississippi State, Andrew was a catalyst for our marketing and gameday transformations in both football and basketball," said Whelan. "He has a proven track record of delivering best-in-class student engagement and a stellar reputation within the Southeastern Conference."
At Mississippi State, Stevens served as the primary contact for football and men's basketball fan experience. He directed the run-of-show and all in-game elements for these high-profile programs, helping lead men's basketball to a then-record seven sellouts in 2023–24 before breaking that mark with eight sellouts in 2024–25. His efforts also contributed to the two best years of student engagement in school history, including 20 basketball crowds that topped 2,000 students—driven by targeted programming and close collaboration with student leaders.
Stevens was also responsible for managing the Hail State Rewards program, which incentivized student attendance and participation with a points-based prize system. His leadership strengthened relationships with student groups and helped create a more cohesive and energized student presence across MSU Athletics.
Notably, Stevens introduced a student section DJ, revamped lighting and pyrotechnics inside the newly renovated Humphrey Coliseum, and enhanced the pregame atmosphere for the Famous Maroon Band. His work was also key to the unveiling of new traditions like the "Celebrity Cowbell Ringer" at Davis Wade Stadium.
"I couldn't be more excited to join the Toledo Rockets," said Stevens. "Watching from afar, I have seen the energy surrounding Toledo Athletics, and the chance to now be a part of that is a tremendous opportunity. I am eager to get to work and help take our gameday experience to the next level."