Alumni Achiever – Susanna Nickell, Centennial High Class of 2008
Published September 7, 2017
Centennial High School graduate Susanna Nickell has the kind of job that would make most sports fans jealous. As Community Relations Coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, Nickell works closely with both the NFL players and their fans.
After graduating from CHS in 2008, Nickell earned her degree in Sport Management from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She worked as the corporate communications manager for the Washington Redskins before eventually landing with the Titans.
What are your responsibilities as community relations coordinator?
At its core, my job is to leverage the assets and resources of the team to make a difference in our community. Some days that means bringing players to visit patients in the hospital and other days it means hosting back-to-school shopping sprees for underprivileged students. Part of what I love about my job is the way it varies day-to-day. We serve such a diverse group of people with very diverse needs.
What do you enjoy the most about your job?
I love interacting with the people in our community, and being part of a team environment. There’s nothing quite like it.
What did you enjoy most about your high school experience?
Sorry, teachers, but I have to say it. My experience with high school athletics was my favorite. I ran track and played soccer all four years and will forever cherish the memories, friendships and lessons learned on the field and track. I learned so much in those four years that I still carry with me – respect, teamwork, sacrifice, working towards a common goal, facing adversity. The list could go on and on.
What WCS teacher made a difference in your life and how?
My AP English teacher my senior year. I can say with absolute confidence that her class prepared me the most for college. I breezed right through English 101 but I can’t say that for most of my classmates. I’ve always been complimented on my writing ability and I think that’s where it all started – AP English senior year.
Do you have any advice for current WCS students?
You are in a great school system that will prepare you well for whatever you do next if you are willing to put in the work. When you go on to do bigger and better things, you will realize that you’re steps ahead of most people. Take advantage of the knowledge and resources available to you now; most public school students aren’t lucky enough to do so.