Michael J. King is the Senior Associate Athletics Director of Marketing and Development at Fayetteville State University, a position he has held since July 2021. In this role, he spearheads marketing, promotions, and development initiatives, collaborating closely with the Director of Athletics and University Institutional Advancement to elevate FSU Athletics.
A proud alumnus of Fayetteville State, King brings a wealth of experience in marketing, fundraising, and entrepreneurship. He began his journey at FSU as the Assistant Athletics Director in February 2015. Prior to that, he served as program director and co-owner of Full Potential, LLC, a mental health agency dedicated to supporting at-risk youth in Cumberland County. He also operated Kindred Spirits, a retail boutique in downtown Fayetteville, where he developed effective marketing strategies and service standards.
King’s background includes a successful tenure as a sales executive at Verizon Corporation, where he consistently ranked among the top five executives in the region for sales performance. He co-founded Soulcial Entertainment Group, a full-service event production company that creates impactful lifestyle experiences by connecting clients within the entertainment, fashion, and music industries.
In December 2023, King received his certificate in fundraising management from the Lilly School of Philanthropy, further enhancing his expertise in development and fundraising efforts. In recognition of his contributions, he was named Fayetteville State University Employee of the Year in 2020. A standout athlete during his time at FSU, he earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2006. As a linebacker and defensive end, he accumulated numerous accolades, including being named FSU Defensive Lineman of the Year in 1999 and earning three CIAA Rookie of the Week honors.
Dedicated to professional development, King is an active member of several organizations, including the National Association of Athletic Development Directors (NAADD), the National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators (NACMA), Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA), and the Collegiate Event and Facility Management Association (CEFMA).
Originally from Saint Stephen, South Carolina, King resides in Fayetteville with his wife, Melkita, and their three children: Michael Jr., Myla, and Myles. He is passionate about giving back to his community and fostering excitement for FSU Athletics, embodying the university’s motto: Res Non Verba. “Deeds, not Words”