Class Spotlight - Brian Blackwell

Name: BRIAN BLACKWELL

Birthday: July 25, 1983

Hometown: Lubbock, TX

Currently residing: Lubbock, TX

Activities Involved in while at Texas A&M: George H.W. Bush Intern, Fish Camp Counselor, Big Event Committee, Carpool, Student Government, Aggie Investment Club

What is your most memorable Aggie experience?

My most memorable Aggie Experience was serving as a Fish Camp Counselor for Camp Boetcher.  The relationships and
memories that were made re-enforced everything that makes A&M so unique and great.

How has your time at Texas A&M impacted where you are today, personally and/or professionally?

A&M gave me a great opportunity to grow as a person and form relationships that have been very valuable in business and in life.  My time spent on campus set a foundation for success I couldn’t of got at any other University.  The AGGIE Network is alive and well and will only get better in time.

Where do you want to be in 5 years?

I plan on continuing to grow UPNIN Inc. and have offices in all 50 states 5 years from now.  My ultimate business goal is to own an MLB team.  In the future I plan on living at Miramont in College Station.

Where can we find you when you are not at work? What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend  or Sunday afternoon?

On the weekends I usually travel to sporting events across the country.  My favorite way to spend a weekend is watching the Aggie Football team WIN.

Where do you work and what is your role? What most excites you about your work & the contribution you can make?

Currently I serve as President of UPNIN Inc, which is a holding company for various UPNIN businesses involved in Real Estate, Insurance, Private Investments, Sports, Legal Services, and Fundraising.  I also serve as CEO of INSIDE Coaches Inc., which is a social networking site for people involved in sports, as well as fans.   I love my job because everyday I’m meeting new people/clients and have the opportunity to tell them about all the great things UPNIN is involved in while creating Win/Win situations for all involved parties.

What do you miss most about Texas A&M or Bryan/College Station?

Fortunately, I make it back to College Station a lot for Aggies Games and business.  The one thing I miss is seeing all the great people I became friends with during my time in AGGIELAND.

What are you passionate about personally? What do you really enjoy /what can’t you stop talking about?

I enjoy NetWorKing, growing UPNIN businesses, and hanging out with friends and family. I try to listen more then I talk, but I love talking about new ideas & how technology can spur business growth and profits.

Any volunteer activities you’re crazy about?  Any nonprofits you love & why?

I currently serve as VP of Fundraising for AG Sports which is a non-profit sports agency I co-founded with former Tech Basketball Coach Chris Walker.  We represent NFL, NBA, & MLB athletes & coaches, and provide under privileged kids the opportunity to attend some of the best sports camps in the nation.

Email address in case any of our classmates wanted to contact you?

Brian@UPNIN.com