Originally from North Little Rock, Arkansas, Cimone Austin began her collegiate journey at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock before pursuing opportunities in journalism and communications at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland.
Austin began her career in collegiate athletics as a Marketing and Fan Engagement Intern with Morgan State Athletics. She quickly expanded her role within the department, later serving as Social Media Manager while completing her undergraduate studies.
Austin earned a Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication with an emphasis in Social Media Marketing from Morgan State University, combining her academic background with hands-on experience in athletics communications, marketing, and digital media.
Following graduation, Austin expanded her professional portfolio with The Baltimore Times, where she served as both a writer and Social Media Manager. During her tenure, the publication achieved its highest social media engagement in its history. Her work as a journalist also appeared in The Baltimore Times and The Afro-American Newspaper.
Her professional journey came full circle when she returned to Morgan State Athletics full-time as Social Media Manager. Her work helped strengthen the department’s digital presence, earning recognition throughout the conference and contributing to increased engagement across Morgan State Athletics platforms.
In October 2022, Austin transitioned into athletics administration as Executive Assistant to the Vice President and Director of Athletics. In this capacity, she supported executive leadership and department-wide operations while continuing to contribute to marketing, communications, special events, and strategic initiatives.
Throughout her career at Morgan State, Austin has played an integral role in several signature departmental initiatives, including the LIIDERship Academy, Varsity “M” Club Hall of Fame, Student-Athlete Banquet, Sneaker Soirée, Alumni 1867 Basketball Game, and numerous other departmental events and initiatives.
Austin is also an active member of Women Leaders in Sports, the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA), and the National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators (NACMA).
In September 2026, Austin was promoted to Assistant Athletics Director for Administration. In her current role, she supports the overall administration of the athletics department while overseeing human resources operations and assisting with strategic initiatives, executive operations, onboarding, and departmental coordination.
