Cori Keller’s career story is proof that the “straight line” is overrated. She starts with Arkansas State University, stacks credentials in exercise science, communication, and a doctorate in healthcare administration, and then builds a real-world path that moves from marketing and ESPN freelance sports reporting to healthcare leadership as a physician liaison with the Baptist Health System.
We talk about what actually carries over when your job title changes: communication skills, showing up prepared, and staying connected to the people who helped you grow. Cori shares how being deeply involved on campus as a Red Wolves dancer, in Greek life, as a campus ambassador, and as Miss A-State 2018 built confidence and relationships that still matter today. The thread running through it all is alumni networking with purpose, not just for nostalgia but for references, opportunities, and long-term professional development.
You’ll also hear why she’s excited to launch the Partners in Progress segment as a casual conversation where listeners can be a fly on the wall and learn how A-State continues to support graduates well beyond their student years. If you care about career growth, alumni success stories, leadership development, higher education impact, or building a network in Arkansas that lasts, this conversation brings practical insight and real momentum. Subscribe, share this with a fellow Red Wolf, and leave a review, then tell us who you want to hear on Partners in Progress next.
More About this Epidsode
Partners in Progress: Cori Keller and the Lifelong Red Wolf Connection
The Arkansas State University Media Network introduces a new perspective on alumni success through the Partners in Progress segment hosted by Cori Keller.
A dedicated Red Wolf with a 2020 undergraduate degree in exercise science and a 2022 master’s in sports production, Keller represents the multifaceted professional path many graduates navigate today.
Her journey from campus leader and Miss Arkansas to a doctorate in healthcare administration demonstrates the versatility of an A State education.
The Versatility of an Arkansas State Education
Keller’s professional background is as diverse as her student involvement. Following her graduate studies, she successfully balanced roles in marketing and freelance sports reporting for ESPN across the mid south region.
Today, she utilizes those communication skills in the healthcare sector as a physician liaison for the Baptist Health System.
Her time on campus was marked by high level involvement, including participating as a Red Wolves dancer, engaging in Greek life, serving as a campus ambassador, and representing the university as Miss A State 2018.
These experiences provided a foundation of networking and leadership that she continues to draw upon in her current administrative career.
Building a Network Beyond Graduation
A primary goal of this new series is to showcase how the university continues to foster growth well after students cross the commencement stage.
Keller emphasizes that the institution serves as a second family, offering a professional support system that includes career references, network building, and continued mentorship.
Through the A State Young Alumni Network in Little Rock, Keller remains deeply connected to her peers and the university’s mission.
The podcast series is designed to offer a candid look at how these professional relationships evolve and how the university remains a constant source of support for its graduates as they elevate their careers.
Elevating Professional Opportunities
Partners in Progress will feature a variety of voices, from recent graduates to influential figures shaping the state of Arkansas. The program seeks to highlight the real world impact of the Red Wolf network by sharing stories of professional elevation and academic success translated into community leadership.
The series invites alumni from all backgrounds to share their experiences. By documenting these professional journeys, the show aims to illustrate the enduring value of a degree from Jonesboro and the significant role the university plays in the professional and economic landscape of the region.
Looking Forward
As the series progresses, listeners can expect insightful conversations regarding the transition from student life to professional leadership.
Whether featuring former government officials or rising industry stars, the focus remains on the specific ways Arkansas State University prepares individuals to serve and lead within their communities.
Keller’s own transition from sports media to healthcare administration serves as a prime example of the adaptable and resilient nature of the alumni base.