Shenandoah University announces partnership with esports league

Shenandoah University announced Monday that it has entered into a partnership with the Washington Justice, a professional Overwatch League, for internships and learning opportunities for students. 

This marks the first partnership between a university and a professional Overwatch League team (esports). The Washington Justice represents Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

The partnership will launch at the beginning of 2021 and end during the summer of 2022.

In fall 2019, Shenandoah University became one of the first higher education institutions in the United States to offer multitrack bachelor’s degrees in esports management and communications. 

“This partnership will prepare our students to work in the esports industry with real world experiences and networking opportunities,” Shenadoah University Director of Esports Joey Gawrysiak said in a statement. “The Washington Justice and their incredible staff recognize the opportunities esports brings students beyond gaming and we couldn’t be more excited about what this partnership will bring to both Shenandoah University and the Justice. This is just another step we are taking to grow our esports program at SU and what sets us apart from other programs.”

Internships will focus on business operations, team operations, sponsorships and marketing. Washington Justice owner Mark Ein will provide leadership opportunities during the school year. The organization will also host live and online events for Shenandoah University students about event production, social media management and business development.

“Through this partnership, we aim to provide Shenandoah students with real, tangible industry experience, so they can be well-equipped for their first career following graduation,” Grant Paranjape, Washington Justice vice president of esports business, said in a statement. “We have had the unique privilege of interacting with many of Shenandoah’s students already, and by combining the excellent education they are receiving in the classroom with hands-on experience at a major esports franchise, we believe we can truly offer students the best in-class opportunity to equip themselves for a successful career in the esports industry.”

Subscribe to Virginia Business.

Get our daily e-newsletter.