ISU Impact: Building Bengal Pride Through Esports

By Kandi J. Turley-Ames, Ph.D.

Published October 21, 2025 at 8:47 AM MDT

This month on ISU Impact, Dean Kandi Turley-Ames sits down with Tim May of Direct Communications and ISU communications major Derek Hansen to discuss the university’s growing esports program. They explore how student-athletes are making their mark nationally and what the creation of a new on-campus esports arena means for the future of ISU.

In this October episode of ISU Impact, host Dean Kandi Turley-Ames spotlights Idaho State University’s rapidly expanding esports program with guests Tim May, CEO of Direct Communications and long-time ISU supporter, and Derek Hansen, a communications major and esports commentator. Together they share how Direct Communications’ support is helping transform ISU’s esports facilities, including plans for a new arena located at the heart of campus. The conversation highlights how esports has become an integral part of college athletics, giving students new opportunities to compete, broadcast, and represent their university at events such as the Big Sky Esports Championship. Tune in to learn how innovation and community partnerships are fueling Bengal pride in this cutting-edge program.