The Garnet & Blue Collective
Welcome to the Garnet & Blue Collective; we empower Presbyterian College student-athletes to excel on and off the field through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives. Embodying the college’s motto, “While we live, we serve,” every athlete who receives support from the collective is paired with meaningful community service projects, fostering growth, excellence, and a lasting impact in the communities we cherish. What differentiates the Garnet & Blue Collective from other NILs and athletic boosters is the component of giving back.
“Our vision is for this organization to function as a collective that is deeply committed to service and community engagement, just like our motto, “while we live, we serve,” said Dee Nichols, Athletic Director of Presbyterian College Athletics. “The Garnet and Blue Collective is a separate entity and necessary for our student-athletes to be able to engage more wholly in NIL opportunities. We are NOT soliciting funds that donors would otherwise donate to the Scotsman Club or Presbyterian College. We have carefully chosen the Board of Directors as individuals who embody our core values of service and they will examine NIL opportunities involving community engagement and identify resources to fund these projects. Being an active participant in the collective is one more way to support the stellar student-athletes at Presbyterian College.”
Rooted in the traditions of excellence and integrity, we are committed to empowering PC athletes across all disciplines, providing them with the resources, opportunities, and support they need to succeed. At the Garnet & Blue Collective, we believe in the power of athletics to inspire, unite, and elevate our community.
Our mission is to create meaningful partnerships that enhance our athletes’ collegiate experience while promoting Presbyterian College’s values. By connecting student-athletes with local businesses, alumni, and fans, we aim to provide financial opportunities that enable them to maximize their potential, excel in their sports, and prepare for future success.
We are proud to support athletes from every sport, recognizing that each one contributes to the rich tapestry of PC’s athletic tradition. From the grit of the wrestling mat to the precision of the golf course, the speed of the soccer field to the strategy of the basketball court, our collective is here to champion every Blue Hose athlete.
The Presbyterian College principles of integrity, stewardship, and community guide the Garnet & Blue Collective. We are dedicated to ensuring that all NIL activities align with NCAA regulations and uphold the highest standards of fairness and transparency. Our goal is to foster an environment where student-athletes can thrive academically, athletically, and personally while also giving back to the communities that support them.
Join us in our mission to empower the next generation of Presbyterian College athletes. Together, we can make a lasting impact on their lives and continue to build a legacy of excellence that honors the Garnet & Blue.
Our Values
- Integrity: We uphold the highest ethical standards in all our endeavors, ensuring that our partnerships and activities reflect the values of Presbyterian College.
- Stewardship: We are committed to the responsible management of resources, prioritizing the well-being and development of our student-athletes.
- Community: We believe in the power of community and strive to create a supportive network that extends beyond the field, fostering lasting relationships between athletes, alumni, fans, and local businesses.
OUR BOARD
Our Board of Directors, comprised of esteemed Presbyterian College alumni and prominent community leaders, plays a pivotal role in shaping our mission and guiding our efforts. Led by Executive Director Danny Cook, each member brings unique insights and a shared dedication to supporting our college athletes and enhancing the Presbyterian College community. Explore the backgrounds and contributions of the leaders who are driving our collective vision forward.
DANNY COOK
Danny Cook is the Executive Director of the Garnet & Blue Collective, LLC. Danny graduated from PC in 1979 and after a very successful 42 years in banking retired this past December from Arthur State Bank. He is now an adjunct professor in the Business and Economics Department at PC.
JORDAN YOUNG
Jordan Ashley is a proud Presbyterian College alum and former softball student-athlete who represented the Big South Conference as the National SAAC representative. Now a Co-Founder and Partner at 3MC Media, a digital marketing agency, Jordan also holds an MBA from Illinois State University.
Isaiah Lynn
Isaiah Lynn is a former Blue Hose Football Player and 2015 graduate of Presbyterian College. Currently, he’s the founder and managing partner of Teammates, a business management and investment firm for professional athletes.
Justin bethel
Justin Bethel graduated from Presbyterian College in 2012 with a degree in Business Management. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals the same year and went on to enjoy a successful 12-year NFL career, finishing with the Miami Dolphins in 2023.
John harvey edwards iii
John Harvey Edwards III is 1994 graduate of PC and former All Conference Tackle for the Blue Hose. John has previously served on the Alumni and Scotsman Club Boards. He has held the position of President and Owner of Site-Prep, Inc. of NC, a highway construction firm based in Monroe N.C. since 2004.
Grant Herren
Grant Herren, a 2007 graduate of Presbyterian College, was a standout member of the basketball team. In his senior year, he earned All-Conference honors and was named Conference Scholar Athlete of the Year in 2006. After graduating, Grant spent two years traveling the world as a member of the Washington Generals, competing against the Harlem Globetrotters. He now runs a successful private lending business in Sarasota, FL.
Jay Lizanich
Jay Lizanich, a 2015 graduate of Presbyterian College, played baseball during his time at PC, where he also met his wife, Ashtin, a volleyball player for the Blue Hose. Together, they have two children, Cora and Kyler, and a dog named Dude. Jay now operates two businesses in the Upstate: one focused on wealth management and financial planning, and the other a trash services company.
Get Involved
Whether you are an alumnus, a local business owner, or a passionate fan, there are many ways to get involved with the Garnet & Blue Collective. Together, we can provide our student-athletes with the opportunities they deserve while strengthening the ties that make Presbyterian College such a special place.
Learn more about how you can support our athletes by getting involved today.