Rutgers University Alumna Lindsay Laureano Shapes NBC’s Olympic Games Coverage

Behind the Scenes of Olympic Broadcasting: A Rutgers Graduate’s Journey

When millions tune in to watch the Olympic and Paralympic Games, few consider the intricate logistics required to deliver seamless global coverage. Lindsay Laureano, a Rutgers University–New Brunswick graduate and director of NBC’s Olympic creative development team, orchestrates critical elements that make these broadcasts possible. Her role exemplifies how strategic communication education from institutions like Rutgers University–Camden prepares professionals for high-stakes media environments.

The Complex Choreography of Live Olympic Coverage

Laureano’s responsibilities center on integrating advertising partners into NBC’s Olympic programming across television, digital, and social platforms. This involves:

• Coordinating 400+ sponsored elements during the Games
• Adapting placements in real-time for weather delays or unexpected results
• Ensuring brand integrations feel organic to viewers

“We’re already planning for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics while executing current Games,” Laureano notes, emphasizing the multi-year preparation cycles. Her team’s work extends beyond traditional commercials to sponsored athlete profiles, branded graphics, and platform-specific content.

From Rutgers Courts to Global Broadcasts

Laureano credits her success to lessons learned as a Division I tennis player and communication student at Rutgers. The dual demands of athletics and academics taught her:

• Time management under pressure
• Adaptability in dynamic environments
• Collaboration across diverse teams

Professor Mark Beal’s mentorship proved particularly impactful. “He helped secure my first PR internship and emphasized professional networking,” Laureano recalls. These experiences prepared her for NBC Sports roles covering Sunday Night Football, Super Bowls, and eventually the Olympics.

Elevating Paralympic Coverage Through Education

A significant aspect of Laureano’s work involves enhancing NBC’s Paralympic Games presentation. Her team focuses on:

This approach has helped Paralympic viewership grow by 27% since NBCUniversal acquired rights in 2018.

The Rutgers Advantage in Sports Media Careers

Laureano’s trajectory demonstrates how Rutgers prepares students for media leadership through:

• Hands-on learning: Production courses mirroring real-world deadlines
• Industry connections: Alumni networks at major networks
• Adaptive thinking: Curriculum addressing evolving media landscapes

Current students can leverage resources like the Rutgers University–Camden internship office, which maintains partnerships with NBC Sports and other Olympic-rights holders.

Adapting to the Future of Live Sports

As streaming platforms transform viewing habits, Laureano’s team develops multi-platform strategies for Olympic content:

• Customized sponsor integrations for Peacock streaming
• Social-first content packages for TikTok and Instagram
• Interactive elements enhancing traditional broadcasts

“The core challenge remains balancing sponsor needs with authentic storytelling,” Laureano explains. “Viewers reject disruptive ads but embrace relevant brand partnerships.”

Building a Career in Olympic Media Production

For students aspiring to similar roles, Laureano offers actionable advice:

1. Start local: Gain experience with university athletics departments
2. Master adaptability: Live sports demand quick decision-making
3. Develop technical fluency: Understand broadcast software and metrics

Rutgers University–Camden’s proximity to Philadelphia media markets provides unique access to internships and networking events with industry leaders.

As the media landscape evolves, Rutgers continues developing programs through partnerships with organizations like Shorelight Pathways, ensuring international students gain U.S. media industry exposure.