Halle Smith was selected to be part of the NCAA x Meta NIL Empower Program for the spring 2025 cohort. Hosted by the NCAA and Meta, this three-month program aims to help NCAA women student-athletes enhance their name, image and likeness opportunities and prepare for life beyond sports.
 
"I applied to the NIL Meta Empower Program through the NCAA because I saw it as an incredible opportunity to elevate my personal brand, expand my knowledge of social media marketing, and connect with industry leaders who can help me grow as both an athlete and an influencer," Senior Forward Halle Smith said. "As someone passionate about building my brand and making the most of NIL opportunities, I knew this program would give me valuable tools and resources to take my career to the next level."
 
The NCAA x Meta NIL Empower Program is a unique initiative that helps selected student-athletes bridge the gap between college sports and professional opportunities. During this program, participants will have the opportunity to gain knowledge from Meta product experts, network with peers and industry professionals, and learn about financial literacy from former student-athletes and industry experts.
 
Select athletes, as a result of participation, may receive:

• 1:1 Meta support.
• Priority for Meta editorial and product marketing opportunities.
• Exclusive access to NCAA events and career development opportunities.

 
Each program's cohort includes 50 women selected from more than 1,100 applicants. Athletes are chosen by Meta based on a set of criteria, including diversity across sports and divisions, current social media presence, and reasons for joining the program.
 
Former participants have experienced significant success during the program. The fall cohort gained over 13 million Instagram reel plays and 100,000 new followers during the three-month program.
 
"Now that I have been accepted, I'm beyond excited to learn, network, and maximize this opportunity to its fullest potential," Smith stated.
 
Visit the NCAA x Meta NIL Empower Program page to learn more.