Stories of Leadership: Steve Dolan

Steve Dolan, a marketing specialist for the College of Extended Studies, began his relationship with SDSU at an early age when he attended San Diego State’s elementary school. 

Since receiving his degree in 1978 , he has successfully branched out into many areas of his communication and marketing career. He has been an employee eleven years on campus at San Diego State University. His role in his current position is focused primarily on public relations emphasis.

Tell us the highlights of your professional career. What are your proudest achievements?

Generally, I am most proud of my ability for perseverance in so many aspects of my career history.

As far as a specific achievement, I would have to say the opportunity I had to cover the San Diego Padres in the 1974 World Series.

What’s your favorite college memory?

I am a sports enthusiast so the best memory for me was when San Diego State University won 10 games two years in a row.  That was unprecedented in the school’s history!

Who was your favorite teacher and/or what was your favorite class?

Jim Buckalew.  He was a radio guy.  I took a lot of Mass Comm classes at SDSU and Jim made a difference in the classroom because he was in the business—he knew firsthand what was going on in the field and brought that to the classroom which helped the students immensely.

If you were to give current SDSU students some advice, what would you say?

I would emphasize the importance of networking.  If you meet and stay in touch with people who are in your career field, it can potentially lead to important career opportunities.   I would also say, “Don’t burn bridges with people, you never know when things might come full circle and you may find yourself in a situation where you come in contact with and maybe even need those people again”.

What is your passion?

My passion is sports.  I like most any sport, but mostly football and basketball—whatever is in season.

What is your motto?

Treat people well because it will pay off in a good way.  For myself, I try to live that way every day.

If you won the lottery, what would you do with the winnings?

Help make youth better in the community and support things that would keep them off the streets.