Alumni Profile: Austin Pantaleo ’23
Before Austin Pantaleo graduated in the spring of 2024, he locked up a pretty cool job.
The Digital Media and Art Design (DMAD) major began working with Bristol Rhythm AFC, a semi-professional soccer team based in Bristol. 2024 is the club’s inaugural season and as its new Director of Media Operations, Pantaleo couldn’t be happier.
“I’m in charge of our internship program, media relations, photography, and social media,” he said. “It’s really a perfect fit for me. I’ve always known that I wanted to work not only as a photographer but also in media relations.
“I get to work in soccer, which is my favorite sport to watch and be around, so knowing that my life will be focused on a sport I am very passionate about really does mean a lot to me, and I’m excited to see what we as an organization can make out of this team in its first season.”
Pantaleo, who came to King from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, says his time at King prepared him well for his career.
“King was a lot of fun,” he said. “Without my time there, I would never have found my passion for photography, and honestly would never have come out of my bubble. King helped me truly find my voice and purpose in this world.”
King’s commencement ceremony was an exciting day for Pantaleo, as he finally got to walk across a stage and receive his diploma.
“I was ready for it,” he said. “I didn’t get to do it for high school graduation during COVID-19, so I was really happy about it – and I’m very excited to be able to give my full attention to my work. I’m looking forward to enjoying my life with family and friends in a field that I love.”
