The United States Academic Esports League (USAEL), a leading provider of turn-key academic esports programs for K-12 schools, is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Katrina Adkins as the new Vice President of Academic Esports. In this role, Dr. Adkins will lead the expansion of the USAEL with a focus on promoting opportunities for girls in STEM, developing resources for schools and educators, and finding new ways to channel students’ passion for gaming into college and career opportunities.

“Esports offers students the opportunity to engage in curricular and career-focused instruction that will propel them into STEM and CTE professions, as well as allow students to apply for college esports scholarships, ' said Adkins. “The USAEL combines a much sought-after approach to k12 esports by merging Competition, Curriculum, and Careers.” 

Dr. Adkins' appointment is notable not only because of her extensive experience in education and her passion for expanding STEM and esports opportunities for women and minorities but also because of the growing importance of esports in K-12 education. Dr. Adkins' leadership will help to bring the benefits of esports to a wider audience in the K-12 education space.

“As a lifelong educator and father of two daughters, I could not be more proud of the direction Dr. Katrina plans to take us,” said Alan Sitomer, CEO of Mastery Coding. “Her talent, skills, and expertise are a phenomenal match, and students and educators across the country are going to benefit immensely.”

As the Vice President of Academic Esports, Dr. Adkins will work to foster a culture of inclusivity and accessibility within the K-12 esports education space. By providing more students with the opportunity to learn and grow through the exciting and engaging world of esports, Dr. Adkins aims to make a meaningful impact on the future of education.

Formed in late 2022 as a partnership between education experts from Mastery Coding and esports veterans at Rally Cry, the USAEL is designed, led, and managed by the best. In a world changed by technology, the USAEL strives to help students use their passion for video games to take advantage of opportunities for internships, scholarships, and pathways to high-paying careers in STEM. The three pillars that make up the essence of the USAEL are competitions that engage, curriculum that inspires, and careers that empower. 

With unlimited access for all students at a given school, the USAEL provides curricula that help schools start, run, and manage esports programs, explore STEM career opportunities, and offer an introduction to coding and game development. Opportunities for competitions and prizes are available through an industry-vetted platform trusted by partners such as the NFL, U.S. Air Force, and Riot Games. An emphasis on career and college readiness is embedded through career development modules, workforce internships, and college scholarship opportunities.