CONTACT US
MEET THE TEAM
Administrative
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Brett Eden, Ed.D, MBA
Director, Auxiliary Business Development
Brett Eden is a dynamic leader in business development, trademark licensing, and corporate
engagement, serving as the Director of Auxiliary Business Development at the University of Utah. With
over 25 years of experience, he has played a pivotal role in expanding the University's brand presence,
forging strategic partnerships, and driving revenue growth.
Passionate about building meaningful relationships, Brett has led initiatives that connect corporate partners with the University’s mission, generating millions in new revenue while enhancing the student experience. His expertise spans trademark licensing, marketing, sponsorships, and cross-campus collaboration - all aimed at strengthening the University’s impact.
Brett holds an MBA from BYU and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Utah. A proud father of three, he believes in the power of innovation, service, and creating lasting connections. He is also a fierce advocate for people getting out in nature whether it be backpacking, camping, glamping, Jeeping, or anything
Licensing
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Abby Roberts
Manager, Trademarks & Licensing
Abby graduated from the University of Utah in 2013 with dual bachelor degrees in International Studies
and Political Science. Among other daily functions focused on the protection & promotion of our
trademarks, Abby oversees the Crafter Program and supports Student Organizations fulfill their
merchandise needs. She is always happy to answer any questions about the licensing process or logo
usage, so please reach out anytime! Abby is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Legal Studies at SJ
Quinney College of Law, but when she has a few minutes to herself she loves to read (mostly non-
fiction), binge podcasts, and spend time with her train-obsessed little boy
Partnership &
Sponsorship
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Kody Carbone
Manager, Client Experience
As the Client Experience Manager, Kody Carbone ensures the successful execution of partnerships,
bringing initiatives to life across campus. Passionate about strategic marketing, engagement, and
achieving goals, Kody focuses on creating seamless experiences that strengthen connections between
the university and its partners. In addition to partnership fulfillment, Kody manages the Swoop Mascot
Program, enhancing school spirit and community involvement.
In his free time, Kody loves to cook, spend time gardening, and compete with his dog in performance
sports like Agility and Herding.
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Jordan Schmitz
Sponsorship & Advertising Salesman
Jordan Schmitz is the Campus Sponsorship & Advertising Sales Manager. He excels in creating and
connecting unique opportunities to leverage the University and help elevate our partners and the U of
U. Being in sales and negotiations for over 15 years, he has the perfect skillset to not only guide our
partners across the University, but also understand the needs of all parties and create additional value.
Outside of work, Jordan enjoys concerts, live sports, and creating lasting memories with his son
Jameson Marketing
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Kyle Atkinson
Marketing Project Manager
Kyle Atkinson is a Marketing & Communications Specialist that manages marketing initiatives on behalf
of Stadium, Arena, & Campus Event Services, Commuter Services, and Auxiliary Business Development.
Kyle holds an Associate’s Degree in Media Studies & Journalism from Salt Lake Community College and a
Bachelor’s Degree in Strategic Communication from the University of Utah. While attending both SLCC
and the U, Kyle found a passion for student media and was involved in radio, TV, print, podcasting, and
online journalism. Kyle’s time hosting radio shows and writing blog posts for K-UTE Radio holds a special
place in his heart.
After graduating in 2020, Kyle worked at a local marketing agency before returning to the U in 2022. As
part of the Auxiliary Marketing team, Kyle serves as a project management-oriented Marketing &
Communications Specialist tasked with facilitating all marketing needs for his assigned departments as
well as assisting with special projects.
In his free time, Kyle enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching sports, attending concerts,
and playing video games. He’s an avid fan of the Utah Utes, Utah Jazz, Minnesota Vikings, and
Manchester United, as well as an aspiring DJ.
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Adam White
Creative Marketing Manager
Adam’s love of art started with comic books and Saturday morning cartoons, which eventually
transformed into a career in graphic design and illustration spanning more than two decades. A proud
graduate of the University of Utah, Adam first honed his skills in print shops and marketing firms, and
then returned to his alma mater in 2015 when he joined University Print & Mail Services. In 2024, he
made the move Auxiliary Business Development, where he's been able to play an even larger role in
elevating the U of U brand. Adam received the Gold Award and Audience Choice award at the 2022
IPMS In-Print Awards. When he’s off the clock, he indulges in his love of food & nerdy stuff and watches
lots of movies. Don’t get him started.
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Nikayla Jones
Marketing Project Manager
Hello, my name is Nikayla Spriggs! I am a Marketing and Communications Specialist responsible for
managing the marketing needs and projects for Auxiliary Services Leadership, University Print and Mail
Services, the UCard office, and Sunnyside Apartments. I graduated from the University of Utah with my
bachelor’s in marketing in 2021. During my time in school, I worked as an intern managing university
social media accounts and photographing content for both online and social media platforms. After
graduating I began working for the university full time. My current focus is primarily managing projects;
however, I still pick up a camera whenever I can both at work and in my free time! Outside of work, I enjoy playing video games, reading books, hiking, and playing with my dog, Moose! I cannot wait to
work with you in the future Student Media
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Joshua Petersen
Manager, Student Media
Josh Petersen is the Manager and Advisor of Student Media. He manages the operations of Student
Media and provides advice, guidance and support to student leadership.Josh is an alumni of University of Utah and Student Media. He graduated with bachelor’s degrees in English and Psychology and served as Digital Managing Editor at the Daily Utah Chronicle. Before returning to the U, Josh was an editor at Salt Lake Magazine.
In his free time, Josh loves going to concerts and trying new restaurants.
View Bio
Melanie Hooten
ABD Office Admin Coordinator
Melanie Hooten is the smiling face you see at the ABD front desk. Melanie worked in Health Sciences
beginning in 2005, before she came to ABD in June 2024. Melanie has earned the title of “House Mom”
among the Pepsi Ambassadors and student employees. Melanie is also an alumnus of the University of
Utah, earning a BA in Environment and Behavior as part of the class of 2000.
Melanie is an artist, specifically a potter, photographer, florist, and baker. She enjoys spending time with
her teenage sons; cooking, gardening, and doing puzzles.
Melanie believes in community building, working with Partners in the Park for the last decade and a half.
Her work has helped increase enrollment at the U among the 84104 and 84116 zip codes.
At ABD, Melanie was able to bring some new elements to the 2024 football tailgates: scavenger hunts,
hot cocoa bar, and a kid’s menu. Melanie brought her creativity to the team, which thankfully,
complements the creativity of the rest of ABD.
Personal mantras:
“You will do foolish things, but do them with enthusiasm.”
“Create the things you wish existed.”