Starting this week and through the summer, we'll be posting stories of some of our outstanding 2026 graduates. Check our news pages or follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn to read these as they're posted.
With an avid interest in sports management, graduating public health science student Vinay Kumar ‘26 walked a unique path connecting public health, sports, marketing and student leadership, all centered around one goal: improving people’s well-being and creating meaningful community impact.
“Public health exists in every space and I’ve learned how to apply it in ways that create impact both on and off the field,” Kumar said. “I've been able to really immerse myself in the sports industry space.”
During his time at the University of Maryland, Kumar served as the undergraduate student coordinator for The Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program where he completed a capstone project with Maryland Athletics and the Washington Wizards, gaining insight into both the business side of sports and athlete engagement.
Kumar also interned with the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), working as a marketing intern where he helped showcase athletes’ stories through campaigns centered on mental health, physical wellness and player well-being. While at NFLPA, he collaborated with A.J. Brown, wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, developing an athlete mental health awareness initiative.
Kumar also served in various mentoring roles including as a resident assistant – helping students in his dorm – and a project coordinator coaching a team of SPH students in a unique internship-like public health science class, experiences that developed his leadership and strengthened his love of mentorship.
“Vinay embodies what it means to be a servant leader. His humility, work ethic and genuine commitment to supporting others set him apart and I have no doubt those qualities will continue to open doors for him throughout his career. I cannot wait to see all the incredible things he accomplishes in the future,” said Tori Sacks, program director for the
Stephen M. Schanwald Sports Management Program.
“When Vinay commits himself to something, he not only ensures the job gets done, but consistently goes above and beyond expectations. He is the type of person who is always looking for ways to help, often anticipating what is needed before anyone even has to ask,” Sacks said.
Kumar discovered the intersection of sports and public health during his role as a sports medicine intern, working closely with UMD athletes to create tailored rehabilitation plans to support their wellness.
“Public health and sports are deeply connected because physical activity, community and wellness all shape long-term health outcomes,” said Kumar.
Beyond sports, Kumar is dedicated to giving back to his community as part of UMD’s Pakistani Student Association, where he raised over $2,000 for a hospital in Pakistan that offers free services to patients.
After graduation, Kumar will continue working with the NFLPA, where he will focus on player wellness initiatives, athlete story telling, and marketing campaigns. Reflecting on his journey at UMD, he advises students to live in the moment.
“We’re always chasing the next thing, but you have to learn how to enjoy the process,” Kumar said. “Enjoy the small wins, the experiences and the people around you. That’s what makes the journey meaningful.”
— by Sumaya Abdel-Motagaly
