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Kiley McKinnon
2018 Winter Olympian / Co-founder at Halfdays
Professional Background
Kiley McKinnon is an accomplished professional with a diverse background that combines elements of athletics, strategic communication, and innovative entrepreneurship. Specializing in strategic communications and marketing, Kiley is currently a senior at the University of Utah, where she is honing her skills in areas critical to effective messaging and brand management. Her academic journey has provided her with a strong foundation in crafting compelling narratives, an essential trait for her current role as a co-founder at Halfdays, a company focused on creating sustainable athletic apparel for women.
Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Kiley gained invaluable experience as an athletic trainer at Athletic Republic. In this role, she used her extensive knowledge of sports science and physical training to help athletes enhance their performance and reduce injury risk, contributing to their growth and success in competitive environments. Kiley’s deep-rooted passion for sports can be traced back to her days as an Olympic athlete with U.S. Ski & Snowboard, where she not only excelled at the highest level of competition but also learned the importance of discipline, teamwork, and resilience.
Education and Achievements
Kiley McKinnon is currently engaged in her studies at the University of Utah, where she is pursuing a degree in Strategic Communications with a focus on marketing. This rigorous academic program has empowered her to understand the complexities of communication within the dynamic landscape of today’s businesses. Kiley's education has been instrumental in her preparations for her role at Halfdays, where she utilizes her learning to connect with consumers effectively and establish a strong brand presence in the market.
Furthermore, Kiley’s dedication to athletics is a testament to her exceptional abilities, having competed at an elite level as an Olympic athlete. Her experiences on the Olympic team shaped her leadership skills and ability to perform under pressure, attributes that she continues to apply in her professional endeavors. Through her training and competition experiences, Kiley developed a unique vantage point on the importance of health, fitness, and well-being—values that she carries into her current projects and advocacy work in promoting women’s athleticism and sportswear.
Notable Achievements
Kiley McKinnon's journey as a co-founder of Halfdays is perhaps one of her most esteemed achievements. The company aims to redefine the landscape of athletic apparel for women by prioritizing sustainability and functional design. This innovative company not only fills a significant market gap but also resonates with consumers who are increasingly environmentally conscious. Kiley’s vision for Halfdays underscores her commitment to making a positive impact in the sporting world while empowering women through fashion and functional athletic gear.
In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Kiley’s time as an Olympic athlete distinguishes her in her field. Competing for the U.S. Ski & Snowboard team, she has left a mark on the sport with her impressive talents and dedication. This experience on the world stage has equipped her with insights into the life of professional athletes, which she skillfully integrates into her endeavors in business and marketing. Kiley’s background enables her to connect authentically with her brand's target audience, as she intimately understands their needs and aspirations.
Kiley is not only an experienced professional in her field but also a role model for aspiring athletes and entrepreneurs alike. Her journey reflects the intersection of sport, sustainability, and strategic storytelling, providing a blueprint for success in various sectors. As she continues to advance in her career, her contributions to both the athletic and business communities are expected to grow significantly, influencing future generations to follow in her footsteps.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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