SMU Athletics has partnered with FanWord and its storytelling product FanWord Stories to give the student-athletes a platform to share their own stories. FanWord is a storytelling and branding company that works with athletic departments to help their student-athletes build, protect, and monetize their personal brands through a variety of products. 
 
"Especially in the new NIL era, it's important to give student-athletes a voice to tell their own stories and help them build their brands," said SMU Director of Public Relations Herman Hudson. "SMU provides an amazing platform for student-athletes and this will only help amplify their brands and messages. This is a wonderful addition to our BOLD (Big Opportunities Live in Dallas) Program, which helps student-athletes navigate and capitalize on new Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) legislation."
 
One of the market leaders in storytelling and branding services for NCAA institutions, FanWord has existing partnerships with athletic departments across all levels, including Alabama, Nebraska, and Kansas. 
 
"SMU has always been about empowering their student-athletes and giving them access to the right resources to succeed," FanWord Founder and CEO Christopher Aumueller said. "We have thoroughly enjoyed our partnership in the past and can't wait to collaborate again."
 
Women's Soccer student-athlete Katina Tsapos shared her story first and can be read on stories.smumustangs.com. Additional articles will be posted periodically throughout the upcoming seasons. The articles will also be shared and featured on SMU social media platforms and the official Mustangs App (Apple | Google Play)."