Marketing and public relations often demand simultaneously combining skills that seem paradoxical: accuracy, creativity and speed. Olivia Fogo has proven she’s up to the challenge.
As marketing/public information intern for the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center (MAMC), Fogo has spent the past six months sharing MAMC’s story with the world – researching, writing, designing, filming, photographing, posting and tweeting, often all in the same day.
“Olivia can do it all and do it well,” said MAMC Director of Communication Mike Friel. “She shows remarkable insight, initiative and organization. She delivers high-quality work quickly, anticipates what’s next and gets busy making it happen.”
Before her internship, Fogo had only a basic understanding of MAMC. That quickly changed.
“During my internship at MAMC, I’ve gained a wide range of both technical and professional skills that I know will benefit me far beyond this experience,” Fogo explained. “On the practical side, I’ve sharpened my video editing and communications skills, improved my writing through guidance from experienced professionals and expanded my understanding of manufacturing and the technical education programs offered here.
“Beyond the technical growth, I’ve learned how to organize and manage communication efforts within a small but highly effective team. I’ve learned how to take initiative, stay self-directed and think more strategically – skills that will serve me in any career path. One of the most valuable aspects has been hearing different perspectives from staff across different departments, which has taught me new ways of problem-solving and broadened how I view resources and collaboration. Most importantly, I’ve seen firsthand the impact a strong sense of community can have in the workplace and how mission-driven work can create real change.”
Fogo is no stranger to being part of a strong team. For five years, she was a pin hitter on Marshall University’s volleyball team. She was voted team captain after the end of her second season as a walk-on before earning a scholarship for the remainder of her undergraduate studies and master’s program.
In May, Fogo earned her master’s degree in business administration from Marshall’s Lewis College of Business, from which she graduated in 2023 with a double major in marketing and management. During that time, she worked as an intern with the Big Green Foundation, assisting with marketing, event planning, alumni engagement and more. She also launched and hosts Echoes of Thunder, a podcast for which she interviews Marshall athletes about their lives on and off the playing field.
As her MAMC internship comes to a close, Fogo is preparing for the next step in her career. “I’m excited about what’s ahead,” she said. “Whether in athletics or another industry, I’m passionate about many facets of business – from partnerships and sponsorships to graphic design, creative services, marketing, public relations and event planning – and I look forward to applying what I’ve learned in a full-time role.”
One thing is certain: Fogo hopes to land in a place with a culture like Marshall’s.
“Working in the Marshall environment, I always felt supported, connected and pushed to grow,” she explained. “So I hope to find a place or company that has the same kind of atmosphere.”
Friel said he’s confident Fogo will succeed at whatever she does. “She can write, she can produce videos, she’s a whiz at social media. Olivia has made a huge impact here at MAMC and I know she’ll do the same in her professional career. Whoever hires this young woman is getting
a gem.”
June 22, 2025
