Meet our CEO & Co-Founder
Aaron Garland
CEO & Co-Founder of Collective Uplift and a certified NFL agent, is a driven professional known for blending intellectual depth, unwavering faith, and a commitment to excellence. Rooted in his relationship with God, he leads with integrity, authenticity, and purpose—qualities that shape his work and interactions.
A former football player at the University of Connecticut, Aaron graduated in 2018 and later earned a Certificate of Negotiation from Yale School of Management in 2025. In addition to his work in sports representation, he has negotiated over $500 million in property tax settlements, showcasing his keen analytical skills and ability to navigate complex financial matters. He is deeply committed to securing the best deals for his clients, ensuring they achieve success both on and off the field.
Meet Our Team
At Collective Uplift, we are committed to assembling a dynamic and well-rounded team dedicated to empowering athletes holistically. Our team combines diverse expertise to provide unparalleled support.
Professor of Sport Leadership
Dr. Joseph Cooper
A renowned scholar and educator, Dr. Joseph Cooper specializes in sport leadership and athlete development. As Professor of Sport Leadership for Collective Uplift, he provides expertise in empowerment, leadership, and career growth. He earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of North Carolina and a Ph.D. from the University of Georgia. With a strong research background, he equips athletes with mentorship, knowledge, and leadership skills, supporting CU’s mission of empowering athletes beyond the game.
NIL Representative
Brianna Jenkins
An accomplished attorney specializing in NIL representation, Brianna earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Louisville and her JD from Loyola University Chicago. Currently working as a legal banking documentation associate at J.P. Morgan, she brings valuable financial and legal expertise to our team. With a deep understanding of contracts and a passion for empowering athletes, she ensures our clients secure the best possible deals while staying protected throughout the process.
Legal Counsel
Xavier Vergara
An experienced attorney, Xavier Vergara serves as Legal Counsel for Collective Uplift, providing legal oversight and strategic guidance. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of St. Thomas and his JD from Loyola University Chicago. With expertise in corporate law, contracts, and compliance, he ensures CU’s business dealings and partnerships are structured for long-term success, strengthening its foundation as the organization continues to grow.
Head of Marketing Partnerships
Shawn Jones
With 10 years of experience in brand partnerships and athlete marketing, Shawn Jones leads Collective Uplift’s marketing initiatives, securing strategic collaborations and sponsorships. Having worked with major brands like Nike, he specializes in brand development, sponsorship negotiations, and athlete branding. His expertise helps position CU and its clients for long-term success, aligning partnerships with the mission of empowering athletes and expanding their opportunities.