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Syracuse University (SU) is probably wishing they had veteran public relations professional and SU alum Chris McCloskey (SU '93) on hand after last night's embarrassing exhibition loss to Le Moyne College. But McCloskey had other things on his plate. Today, NBC Sports announced that McCloskey, former Executive Vice President, Communications, Arena Football League and nine-year veteran of the NFL's communications department, has joined NBC as Vice President, Communications, NBC Universal Sports & Olympics.

Here is the press release issued by NBC Sports this afternoon.

MCCLOSKEY JOINS NBC SPORTS

NEW YORK- November 4, 2009- Chris McCloskey, former Executive Vice President, Communications, Arena Football League and nine-year veteran of the NFL's communications department, has joined NBC as Vice President, Communications, NBC Universal Sports & Olympics.

"Chris is a smart, strategic thinker who is known for building strong relationships with partners and the media," said Mike McCarley, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Promotion and Communications, NBC Universal Sports & Olympics. "He brings a wealth of experience and a strategic approach to this position. We are fortunate to have him join the NBC Sports team."

McCloskey will serve as the primary media contact for NBC's Olympic coverage, NBC's "Football Night in America" studio show, Notre Dame football, golf and the NHL. McCloskey will report to McCarley and begin his duties immediately.

McCloskey recently served as a brand strategy consultant focused on communications and sports marketing for a number of clients, including Phillips-Van Heusen and NBC Sports. He is currently an adjunct professor at Iona College's Hagan School of Business where he teaches a course on sports and entertainment communications strategy.

Many of the skills McCloskey utilized during his six-year AFL tenure were learned while serving for nine years in the National Football League's communications department. While at the NFL, McCloskey conducted Super Bowl press conferences, supervised all media services at the NFC Championship Game and NFL Combine, and created publicity campaigns for the players attending the NFL Draft.

McCloskey oversaw all communications elements at the AFL and dramatically increased its media coverage, which contributed to a nearly 40 percent increase in attendance, a six-fold increase in television exposure and a doubling of franchise values.

McCloskey resides in Darien, Conn. with his wife, Renie Anderson, and their two daughters Callie and Kate.