NORFOLK, Va. – Norfolk State University Director of Athletics Dr. Melody Webb announced the hiring of
Tiora Hackley as the department's Director of Creative Services on Thursday, Oct. 29.
Hackley joins the Spartans with more than 13 years of experience in brand development, creative strategy, graphic design and visual storytelling across collegiate athletics, sports, lifestyle and entertainment. She will lead the creative vision for Norfolk State Athletics, overseeing graphic design, digital content and visual branding for all 17 Spartan programs across digital, social, print and environmental platforms.
Hackley comes to Norfolk State from Brand Elite Studios, the full-service creative studio she founded in April 2017. As Founder and Creative Director, she has led integrated campaigns for clients across sports, entertainment, events, lifestyle and fashion, developing brand identities, creative concepts, social campaigns, event graphics, signage and promotional materials.
Before launching Brand Elite Studios, Hackley spent nearly two years as a graphic designer at Old Dominion University Athletics (2015-17). There, she produced social media graphics, motion graphics, hype videos and game-day content, filmed and edited features, highlight videos and interviews, and art directed photoshoots for women's and men's basketball recruitment campaigns. She also helped grow the department's digital presence through weekly recruiting graphics for student-athletes and alumni.
Hackley also designed marketing assets for global retail stores as a member of Under Armour's retail design team in 2014.
She began her career at her alma mater, Virginia State University, as a media specialist from 2013-14, where she shot and edited photo and video content for 14 sports and produced digital campaigns, email newsletters, posters and social graphics for the Trojans' athletics department.
"I'm truly honored to step into this role at Norfolk State University," said Hackley. "Throughout my career, I've always believed that creativity is more than just producing great visuals; it's about telling stories, creating experiences, and building something that leaves a lasting impression. My goal is to bring a fresh creative perspective to Spartan Athletics, highlight the incredible stories of our student-athletes, and continue elevating the Norfolk State brand. I'm excited to lead with purpose, push creative boundaries, and contribute to the next chapter of Spartan Athletics."
Hackley earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design from Virginia State and completed a post-baccalaureate program at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA).
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