Sep 29, 2026

Banana Ball, SCAD & SEC Volleyball: Three Forces Shaping Savannah

This episode of Savannah Chamber Connect, presented by Vaden Automotive, features three conversations with leaders and community voices shaping Savannah’s business, education, workforce, and sports landscape.

In the Superstar Member Spotlight, Chamber President and CEO Bert Brantley sits down with Nick Wilson, Player #33 for the Indianapolis Clowns, to discuss his journey from college baseball and a career outside of the sport to becoming a Banana Ball player. Wilson shares the story of his unforgettable tryout, the history and legacy of the Indianapolis Clowns, and his personal connection to the Negro Leagues through his grandfather. He also talks about building an authentic personal brand, representing the Clowns’ history, and using his platform to inspire and educate others.

The episode then features The Hot Seat with Erin O’Leary, Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). O’Leary discusses SCAD’s economic and cultural impact on Savannah, the university’s community initiatives and hands-on student experiences, and how programs such as SCADpro and the new SCAD Backlot connect students with real-world opportunities. She also highlights SCAD’s growing programs in robotics, artificial intelligence, music, and other emerging fields, as well as the university’s continued focus on preparing students for professional careers.

Finally, Joe Marinelli, President and CEO of Visit Savannah, joins the conversation to discuss Savannah’s growing reputation as a sports destination. Marinelli talks about the upcoming SEC Women’s Volleyball Championship, the opportunities it creates for local businesses, and how major sporting events can generate economic activity, national exposure, and future opportunities for the Savannah region. He also discusses the role of Savannah’s expanding sports infrastructure and the community’s participation in major events, including Banana Ball.

The Hot Seat:

Erin Lee O’Leary
Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)

Savannah College of Art and Design

Superstar Member Spotlight:

Nick Wilson
Indianapolis Clowns, Player #33

Instagram: @nickwilson_33

Banana Ball – Nick Wilson

Joe Marinelli, President & CEO, Visit Savannah

SEC Volleyball Tournament

Visit Savannah – SEC Volleyball Championship

IMPORTANT LINKS:

Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce