From the Hill to the NBA! Alabama A&M alum, Mykeanna “Missy” Dotson is excited to help Atlanta Hawks grow their fanbase in newly appointed role as New Season Sales Consultant.
Hired from a pool of 30 applicants, Dotson became the first graduate of the Hawks’ 12-month Sales Development program, which fast-tracked her ability to find her place within the organization.
The greatest part of my job is creating moments that matter for everyone,” says Dotson. “People might not remember what you do for them but, they always remember how you make them feel.”
Dotson joined the Atlanta Hawks in 2022 as a membership sales associate. Before her career in the NBA, Dotson says she learned and sharpened the invaluable skill of go-getting as a student at Alabama A&M University. The Atlanta native – born in Cleveland, Ohio – reflects on an exciting journey that started when she chose to attend Alabama’s largest HBCU.
“I am an only child and came to Alabama not knowing a soul,” says Dotson. “I was determined to meet friends, take risks, and build relationships.”
Dotson did that, and then some. She was an AAMU Cheerleader, member of the Sigma Tau Epsilon Professional Fraternity Inc., Ward Modeling Troupe, Pre-Alumni Association, and Urban Planning Association. Dotson also interned at WJAB and served as an AAMU football assistant for three years, which helped her build connections and get experience in the field of sports.
Like most success stories, Dotson’s career wasn’t without its share of challenges.
“I graduated during the start of COVID in 2020 which made things very difficult,” she says. “Until one day I decided to get on LinkedIn and do a little research. I messaged everyone from the Hawks asking for a chance. I told the sales VP at the time if he took a chance on me, I wouldn’t let him down.”
Dotson says that tenacity got her the first phone interview that day. Two weeks later, she was invited to an in-person interview. “I was so nervous because people flew in from all over to interview for a sales position,” says Dotson. “I knew that I was a good learner and my personality was bigger than I am.”
Today, Dotson helps grow the Atlanta Hawks fanbase through outreach and engagement.
“My job is to bring in new business,” she says. “My day consists of making outbound calls to different prospects and businesses to share the value of our product. I manage my current book of business, making sure that my members are getting the best experience every time they step foot in State Farm Arena.”
Despite her busy schedule, Dotson says she remains committed to AAMU.
“I come back for every Homecoming and take part in the cheering sideline with AAMU Cheer Alumni. I am grateful for the time I spent and the people I met on The Hill. Truly if you start here, you never know where you will go!”
Learn more about Dotson’s role at aamu.edu or follow her on the socials here.
