Recent Alumna Spotlight – Kimberly Rometo, BSC ’04, MITS ’14
Hometown: Beavercreek, Ohio
Year Graduated: 2004 – Bachelor of Science in Communication, 2014 – Master of Information and Telecommunication Systems
School: J. Warren McClure School of Emerging Communication Technologies and School of Communication Studies
Major: 2004 – Communication Studies & Information and Telecommunication Systems with a Business minor
Current job title and location: Vice President, Chief Information Officer, Miami Dolphins, Miami, Florida
What do you do? I am accountable for all aspects of Information Technology – people, processes and technology. I work to establish close partnerships with all key executives, both front office functions and football operations, to identify and implement technology support and solutions.
What made you come to Ohio University? I came for the Scripps College of Communication programs and the welcoming Athens environment. Were there other places you considered? Yes, Duquesne University and Miami University. Any metros? Yes, Duquesne is located in Pittsburgh. I liked that it was a small campus in an urban area. What made this rural location more attractive? The community felt safe, welcoming and the landscape was beautiful.
How did the Scripps College of Communication equip you with the skills you needed to succeed? The communication studies program helped develop and refine my soft skills and leadership abilities while the information and telecommunication systems program exposed me to the fundamentals of network and system design. I think having a major in both schools provided for a foundation to get me where I am today. Obtaining my Master’s from the J. Warren McClure School of Emerging Communication Technologies in 2014 cemented the technical knowledge and prepared me for larger leadership roles.
What about your experiences here was so memorable? The professors were truly the most memorable. Dr. Anita James gave me my first professional leadership opportunity by appointing me as lead for the class capstone project. Dr. Trevor Roycroft convinced me that I had the skills to succeed in the information technology field. I also consider Dr. Julio Arauz, Philip Campbell, Dr. John Hoag and Dr. Hans Kruse professional mentors to this day.
Tell us about your career path. Through the J. Warren McClure School of Emerging Communication Technologies I earned an internship with AT&T Solutions sponsored by fellow alumni Bryan Ireton. Upon graduation, I was hired by AT&T Business Services and moved to Atlanta. Shortly thereafter, I accepted a position with AmericasMart Atlanta, the country largest gift, home and apparel tradeshow and events facility. For the next 14 years, I would work my way up in the organization until I was appointed CIO. I received a call from a recruiter in late 2018 for the VP, CIO position with the Miami Dolphins. After meeting with a passionate executive leadership team, I knew I had to move to Miami. It’s been an incredible journey and I am thankful to those I have encountered along the way.
What advice do you have for current students? Never miss an opportunity to learn something or meet someone new. You never know where your path may lead.
Interview conducted by Erin Roberts, Director of Alumni Relations for Scripps College of Communication.