Isabell Mills
Dr. Isabell Mills is a sport management educator and leader dedicated to preparing the next generation of professionals for successful careers in the sport industry. She currently serves as Director of Sport Management Programs at the University of Indianapolis, where she oversees both undergraduate and graduate programs. With a strong focus on experiential learning, Dr. Mills is passionate about connecting students with meaningful, hands-on opportunities that bridge classroom knowledge with real-world application.
Before stepping into her current leadership role, Dr. Mills served as an associate professor, internship coordinator, and co-director of the Center for Sport Sponsorship at the University of Indianapolis. Her academic career also includes faculty appointments at Defiance College and Indiana University Bloomington. Across each role, she has been deeply committed to curriculum development, student mentorship, and building industry partnerships that expand professional pathways for emerging sport leaders.
Dr. Mills holds a Ph.D. in Sport Management from Indiana University Bloomington. Her research has explored branding and consumer behavior in sport, with published work examining brand equity and marketing strategy in athletic and recreational contexts. Through her teaching, research, and program leadership, she remains focused on advancing sport management education and strengthening the connection between academia and the sport industry.
• Indiana University Bloomington
• Highly Commended Paper Award of 2015 in Sport, Business, and Management
• NASSM
• SMA
• Sport Marketing Association Board
• NCAA Division II Swimming and Diving Championships
• NCAA Division I Yes Clinic
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received came from my mentor, Dr. Jennifer Van Sickle at UND, whose leadership and guidance have had a lasting impact on my professional growth. She taught me that while our field is competitive, it’s also full of opportunity for those who are proactive and persistent. I now share that same advice with the graduate student I’m mentoring—build strong relationships, stay open to learning, and don’t be afraid to fail, because growth often comes from the risks we’re willing to take.