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Contact UsDiscipline, Growth and Grit: Kailey Maness Finds Her Stride at MSU Denver
Access to Opportunity, on and off the Field
Kailey Maness’ ’23 MSU Denver journey can be summed up in three words: discipline, growth and friendship.
When she arrived on campus, Maness was navigating the dual demands of being a collegiate soccer player and a marketing student. MSU Denver’s accessible, student‑centered environment made it possible to pursue both, an approach that reflects the University’s mission to create pathways for students balancing academics with work, athletics and leadership.
“I received a great education, learned to balance my collegiate soccer career with my studies, grew my leadership skills and developed friendships that I know I will have for the rest of my life,” Maness said.
For Maness, access wasn’t just about opportunity, it was about being supported in every dimension of campus life.
Academic Excellence Built Through Experience
Maness graduated in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a certificate in digital marketing, leaving MSU Denver with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Her coursework emphasized strategic thinking, adaptability and execution, key elements that prepared her to step directly into a competitive industry. Faculty mentorship and applied learning helped Maness sharpen the skills she now uses daily in brand development, audience engagement and revenue growth.
“Thank you to all the incredible professors who shaped my time at MSU Denver,” she said. “You know who you are.”
That faculty investment in student success ensures graduates are prepared to translate learning into impact.
From Campus Success to Career Mobility
Following graduation, Maness built her career in the hospitality industry, focusing on marketing strategies that elevate brands and drive sales for restaurants and entertainment venues.
Today, she serves as Marketing Manager for FlyteCo Tower, a restaurant, brewery and event venue located in Denver’s Central Park neighborhood. In her role, Maness oversees all marketing efforts for the business, bringing together branding, digital strategy and customer experience.
Telling Denver’s Stories
What excites Maness most about her work is the environment she helps showcase.
FlyteCo Tower is housed at the base of the former Stapleton International Airport air traffic control tower, a 164‑foot landmark that now serves as a community gathering space. Guests can take guided tours up the tower, learning about Denver’s aviation history before enjoying craft beer brewed on site, cocktails, food and entertainment ranging from arcade games to bowling, mini golf, axe throwing and golf simulators.
“Something exciting is always happening at FlyteCo Tower,” Maness said.
Once a hub for travelers passing through Denver, the site has been reimagined as a vibrant, inclusive destination. This is a story Maness helps bring to life through her marketing leadership.
Staying Connected and Looking Forward
Outside of work, Maness continues to set personal goals, including training to run a half‑marathon in 2026. She also stays connected to her alma mater by attending MSU Denver athletic events and supporting current Roadrunners.
Her advice to students and recent graduates reflects the perseverance that defined her own journey.
“If you are job searching, treat applying to jobs like your full‑time job,” Maness said. “Don’t be deterred if you don’t hear back. Keep pushing forward. The right one will come your way with effort and perseverance.”