PGA Tour executive strengthens UNF sport management program through executive in residence role

July 22, 2025

Mike Vitti, Vice President of Data Science and Technology Solutions at the PGA TOUR, is making ongoing contributions to UNF’s Sport Management program as Senior Executive in Residence, offering mentorship, teaching and advancing sports analytics initiatives.

The Executive in Residence (EIR) program brings accomplished industry professionals to campus to share knowledge and experience directly with students. Through teaching, mentoring, and hands-on collaboration, Executives in Residence help students connect classroom learning to professional practice, prepare for internships and careers, and build confidence as they transition into a competitive job market.

Current Executives in Residence include Brian Damato (Digital Solution Partners), Jeremy A. Darlow (TMRW Sports and TGL Golf), Dee Kennedy (National Collegiate Athletic Association), Elaine Chiasson (Amazon Web Services), and Ken Lovell (PGA TOUR). These leaders bring a range of industry experience, enriching learning and mentorship opportunities for UNF students.

Vitti brings more than 25 years of experience in data programming, machine learning, statistical modeling, and sports business analytics to UNF. His career has included leadership roles with organizations such as the PGA TOUR, WWE, Repucom, Carat Media, and Copernicus Marketing, applying data science to sports performance, fan engagement, sponsorship strategy, and fraud prevention.

For Vitti, the Executive in Residence role is about preparing students to succeed in an evolving sports industry.

“What excites me most about serving as Senior Executive in Residence at UNF is the opportunity to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application for both students and faculty,” he said. “I want to help students and faculty connect ideas, teaching, and research with practice in the field.”

A significant part of Vitti’s impact has come through the Sports Data Analytics Lab (SDAL), where he collaborates with faculty and students to leverage analytics for sports performance, fan engagement, and strategic decision-making.

“By collaborating with the Sport Management program, particularly the Sports Data Analytics Lab, we have an opportunity to advance innovative ideas generated by the SDAL. The vision is to establish the SDAL as a central hub for sports analytics that strengthens the overall sport management program, supports athletics at UNF, and contributes to the broader sports industry.”

Beyond analytics, Vitti focuses on preparing students to navigate the transition from university to professional careers. Through workshops, guest lectures, and mentorship, he emphasizes adaptability, creative problem-solving, and the collaborative skills needed to thrive in a fast-changing industry.

“Ultimately, it’s about understanding how to translate theory into action, navigate challenges with confidence, and develop the collaborative skills needed to thrive in an industry that constantly changes,” he explained.

Vitti sees the Executive in Residence program as an invaluable way for students to learn directly from industry leaders.

“These interactions help students understand the importance of adaptability, effective communication, and the value of building a diverse professional network,” he said.

Vitti plans to continue building student confidence, expanding networks and advancing the work of the Sports Data Analytics Lab, positioning it as a model for collaboration between academia and the sports industry.

“Together, we will shape a program and community where students, faculty, and professionals drive meaningful change in sports and beyond,” he said.