TACOMA, Wash. — The Pacific Lutheran University Athletic Department continues to lead the way in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) at the NCAA Division III level, expanding its partnership with industry leader Opendorse with an innovative new package that will generate at least 3,000 dollars annually in NIL opportunities for Lute student-athletes. 

"I'm thrilled to continue our partnership with Opendorse in such an innovative way," said Athletic Director Mike Snyder.
 
"From the beginning, Opendorse has been a great partner by always being willing to meet us where we are and provide value to our student-athletes and this adaptation to our deal is evidence of this. PLU student-athletes will now have guaranteed access to NIL dollars which is something most D3's cannot claim."
 
This latest step includes access to the Opendorse Sales Plan™, a first-of-its-kind solution in Division III athletics that equips the PLU team with dedicated support from Opendorse's brand sales team. Lute student-athletes will receive increased visibility and direct access to brand partnerships and promotional opportunities.
 
Through this partnership, PLU student-athletes will continue to benefit from the full Opendorse platform, including content delivery, education, compliance tools, and now, brand campaigns supported by the Opendorse team. It reflects PLU's forward-thinking approach and ongoing commitment to empowering their student-athletes.
 
"Pacific Lutheran helped set the tone for what NIL support can look like at the Division III level," said Jake Daugherty, Opendorse Manager, Collegiate Partnerships. "They've been ahead of the curve since day one, and this expansion takes that leadership to the next level, bringing extra commercial deal flow to athletes who have long deserved it."
 
PLU has been a leader in the NIL space, becoming just the second D3 school to sign with Opendorse back in 2021 while launching the first NIL Marketplace in D3 with Opendorse in 2022. 
 
By deepening this partnership, Pacific Lutheran solidifies its place at the forefront of Division III innovation, proving that with the right tools and vision, every student-athlete can access meaningful opportunities.

About Opendorse
Opendorse is the technology, data, and service platform powering the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) industry for colleges, collectives, consumers, and commercial partners. More than 150,000 athlete influencers use Opendorse to build, promote, and monetize their personal brands through the largest athlete media network.