About Athletes in Business
Founded by Athletes, for Athletes
Athletes in Business at Carolina was founded in Summer 2025 when two student-athletes recognized a clear gap between their lives as student-athletes and the professional paths they hoped to pursue.
What started as their realization that student-athletes lacked structured career preparation and industry access quickly grew into a mission to change that. They set out to build a community where athletes could explore business opportunities, develop practical professional skills, and form meaningful connections with leaders across the industry.
Today, AIB fills that gap. The organization bridges the competitive drive of athletics with the fast-paced world of business, empowering student-athletes to step confidently into their careers and become the next generation of athlete-executives.
Where Our Members Work & Intern
Our Story
The journey of Athletes in Business at Carolina
Founded
Athletes in Business at Carolina was established with a vision to empower student-athletes in their business careers.
First Event
Held our inaugural meeting to build a thriving professional network
Reached 50 Members and Official Student Org. Status
Our community grew to 50+ active student-athlete members across various sports and business interests along with finalizing our leadership team
Hosted Joe De Sena
Joe De Sena, founder of Spartan, joined us to share insights on grit, mental toughness, and leveraging the student-athlete mindset in the corporate world.
Continuing to Grow
Building a thriving community of student-athletes, expanding our network, and creating more opportunities for success in business.
Our Advisors
Distinguished professionals guiding the next generation of athlete-executives
Michael Norwood
Professor
Michael Norwood played basketball at UNC from 1985–87, spent over 20 years in the financial industry, and now teaches in Honors Carolina. As the Student Organization Advisor for Athletes in Business at Carolina, he provides guidance on leadership, structure, and strategic direction, helping support the organization’s growth.
Cricket Lane
Senior Associate Athletics Director
Cricket Lane leads student-athlete development initiatives focused on preparing athletes for successful careers beyond college. She supports Athletes in Business at Carolina through event coordination, Loudermilk space management, and strategic guidance, and has been instrumental in facilitating key partnerships, including AIB’s collaboration with The Home Depot.
Kara Cannizarro
Director of Engagement and Development
Kara Cannizzaro played lacrosse for the Tar Heels from 2009–13. She leads initiatives that support student-athlete development and career readiness, and she assists Athletes in Business at Carolina with event space coordination, organizational guidance, and broader development support, helping strengthen the program’s foundation and campus presence.