Son of ex-NFL'er Finley commits to Notre Dame

ESPN, originally the Entertainment and Sports Programming Network, is a dominant American sports media corporation headquartered in Bristol, Connecticut. Founded in 1979 by Bill Rasmussen, Scott Rasmussen, and Ed Eagan, ESPN pioneered the concept of a 24-hour all-sports cable network, quickly establishing itself as the "Worldwide Leader in Sports." Today, ESPN is owned 80% by The Walt Disney Company and 20% by Hearst Communications, operating as ESPN Inc. The organization broadcasts from its main studios in Bristol, with additional offices and studios across the U.S., and reaches audiences globally through 64 linear networks and digital platforms in 141 countries. ESPN’s rise was fueled by securing broadcast rights to major professional and collegiate sports, making it a household name. At its peak in 2011, ESPN reached over 100 million U.S. pay TV households, though that number has since declined to about 70 million as viewership shifts toward digital platforms. ESPN’s portfolio now includes seven U.S. cable networks (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, ESPNU, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network), ESPN on ABC, ESPN Radio, and a robust digital presence via ESPN.com, the ESPN App, and ESPN Fantasy Sports. A key achievement in recent years is the launch of ESPN+, its direct-to-consumer streaming service introduced in 2018, which has expanded to include thousands of live events and original programming. In August 2025, ESPN launched a new flagship direct-to-consumer product, offering two subscription tiers—ESPN Unlimited and ESPN Select—providing access to all ESPN networks and exclusive content. This move reflects ESPN’s strategic pivot to adapt to changing media consumption habits, including partnerships with entities like WWE for premium live events. Despite facing challenges such as rising broadcast costs and criticism over coverage biases, ESPN remains a major force in sports media,

## Overview The University of Notre Dame (often referred to simply as “Notre Dame”) is a premier private Catholic research university located in Notre Dame, Indiana, USA. Founded in 1842 by Rev. Edward Sorin, C.S.C., it is renowned for its rigorous academics, storied athletics, and deep commitment to Catholic values. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, with its College of Engineering and other disciplines consistently ranked among the best nationally. ## Mission and Activities Notre Dame’s mission is to be “a powerful force for good,” educating students to be ethical leaders and global citizens who serve society through innovation, research, and community engagement[1]. The College of Engineering, for example, focuses on developing solutions to global challenges, educating the whole person, and conducting research that translates fundamental discoveries into impactful technologies[1]. The university also emphasizes global engagement, operating 12 global locations and offering 92 study abroad programs, which recently earned it the 2025 Senator Paul Simon Award for Comprehensive Internationalization[3]. ## History and Key Achievements Notre Dame’s history is marked by rapid expansion from a small college to a world-class research institution. Its football program, the Fighting Irish, is iconic in American collegiate athletics, competing as an independent in NCAA Division I FBS and playing at the historic Notre Dame Stadium[5]. Academically, Notre Dame is known for interdisciplinary research, particularly in areas like global affairs, engineering, and the humanities. The university’s leadership—including President Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C., and a robust administrative structure—guides its strategic direction[4]. ## Current Status and Notable Aspects Today, Notre Dame is recognized for its blend of tradition and innovation. It continues to invest in faculty, student support, and infrastructure, with recent strategic plans emphasizing inclusivity, sustainability, and the integration of faith and reason[1]. The university’s global footprint, commitment

The entity "Texas" referenced in the query is best understood as the **State of Texas**, a major U.S. state known for its robust economy, dynamic business environment, and technological innovation. Texas is not a single organization but a state government and economic powerhouse that plays a pivotal role in business and technology sectors nationwide. Texas boasts the **most powerful economy in the U.S.**, recognized as the best state for doing business for two decades. It leads the nation in job creation, economic development, and new business startups, making it a prime environment for entrepreneurs and corporations alike[1]. The state’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors including oil and gas, manufacturing, technology, and finance. Historically, Texas has leveraged its natural resources and strategic location to become a business hub. Companies like Arnold Oil Company, an 85-year-old family business, exemplify Texas’s deep-rooted industrial heritage and ongoing entrepreneurial spirit[1]. The state government actively supports business growth through initiatives like specialized business courts for complex litigation, enhancing legal efficiency and business confidence[1]. In technology, Texas is a national leader, ranking No. 1 for technology innovation and semiconductor production, crucial for powering consumer electronics and advanced computing[1]. The state has also established a **Space Commission** to propel space exploration activities, collaborating with entities like NASA, SpaceX, and Blue Origin, positioning Texas at the forefront of aerospace and space tech industries[1]. Additionally, Texas launched its own stock exchange, the Texas Stock Exchange, aiming to become America’s financial capital[1]. Politically, Texas maintains a proactive legislative agenda, with frequent sessions addressing business, technology, and infrastructure policy, supported by a substantial budget surplus to fund key initiatives[3][6]. The state actively refines its regulatory and tax frameworks to attract and sustain business investments, including constitutional amendments aimed at tax exemptions for businesses[2][10]. Overall, Texas exemplifies a vibrant, innovation-driven economy backed by strong governance and a business-friendly

Louisiana State University (LSU) is a prominent public research university located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, known for its comprehensive academic programs, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus life. Established as a flagship institution, LSU offers a student-centered learning environment with a 20:1 student-faculty ratio, emphasizing critical thinking, practical skills, and ethical leadership[1]. It is a midsize city campus that actively engages in community involvement and fosters personal development among its students. LSU has a rich history of growth and innovation. The university is expanding its infrastructure with state-of-the-art facilities, such as the nearly 200,000-square-foot Our Lady of the Lake Health Interdisciplinary Science Building, aimed at enhancing academics, research, and industry collaboration. Additionally, new residence halls are being constructed to accommodate increasing enrollment, reflecting LSU’s commitment to providing an inclusive and modern educational environment[2]. In the realm of business and technology, LSU’s E. J. Ourso College of Business is particularly noteworthy. It has experienced a 37% enrollment increase, conferring over 1,000 bachelor's degrees in the 2024-2025 academic year, with graduates achieving an average starting salary of $76,289. The college’s popular majors include general business, finance, marketing, and business analytics[4]. The college actively recognizes outstanding alumni through its Hall of Distinction, reinforcing a strong network of accomplished professionals[5]. LSU is also a national leader in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, securing a $25 million federal contract to develop AI tools for nuclear threat defense and partnering with Idaho National Lab to advance cybersecurity in the energy sector[2]. Its organizational structure supports diverse areas such as innovation, research, and enterprise development, led by experienced vice presidents and officers[3]. Beyond academics, LSU offers a dynamic campus life with over 400 student organizations, fostering leadership, professional development, and community service opportunities[6][7]. LSU’s commitment to innovation, academic excellenc

The term "Alabama" typically refers to the U.S. state located in the southeastern region, rather than an organization. However, I can provide a summary of the state's government and notable aspects that might be of interest to readers in business and technology: ## Overview of Alabama Alabama is a state governed by a bicameral legislature, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives, alongside a governor and cabinet. The state government plays a crucial role in managing various sectors, including education, healthcare, and economic development. ## History Alabama's government structure has evolved since its inception as a territory in 1817. It became a state in 1819 and has since adopted several constitutions, with the current one being the 1901 Constitution. Over the years, the state has implemented significant reforms, such as the merit system in 1939, which aimed to improve administrative efficiency by consolidating functions and establishing a more organized civil service[2]. ## Key Achievements and Current Status Alabama has been focusing on economic development, particularly in the automotive and aerospace sectors. The state is home to major companies like Mercedes-Benz and NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. In healthcare, Alabama has a comprehensive public health system with departments like the Alabama Department of Public Health, which oversees various health initiatives and emergency preparedness[4]. ## Notable Aspects - **Economic Growth**: Alabama is known for its strong manufacturing sector and has been successful in attracting foreign investment. - **Technological Advancements**: The state is involved in advanced technological research, particularly in aerospace. - **Education and Healthcare**: Alabama invests significantly in education and public health, with a focus on improving outcomes in these areas. In summary, Alabama is a state with a rich history, diverse economy, and ongoing efforts to enhance its technological and business sectors. While it is not an organization in the traditional sense, understanding its government and economic landscape can provide valuable insights for those interested in business and technology news.

The **Green Bay Packers** are a unique professional American football team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, competing in the NFL’s NFC North division. Founded in 1919, they are the only major U.S. sports franchise organized as a **publicly owned nonprofit corporation**, held by over 538,000 stockholders as of 2025, with no individual allowed to own more than 4% of shares. This community ownership model has been key to the team's longevity in the smallest NFL market and is grandfathered under league rules limiting ownership structures[2][3]. The organization was originally incorporated in 1923 as the Green Bay Football Corporation and renamed Green Bay Packers, Inc. in 1935. Unlike other teams privately owned by individuals or corporations, the Packers operate under a community board of 43 directors including former players, local business leaders, and officials, who volunteer without financial compensation and provide governance oversight. The team president acts as the de facto owner, currently transitioning from Mark Murphy’s tenure, with the general manager and head coach reporting directly to the president—a structure admired by other NFL franchises[1][8]. On the field, the Packers are one of the NFL’s most historically successful teams, boasting **13 league championships** including **4 Super Bowl titles**, and winning the first-ever Super Bowl under legendary coach Vince Lombardi, for whom the trophy is named. Their home, Lambeau Field, is an iconic stadium known for its rich history and passionate fan base[3][6][7]. Beyond football, the Packers contribute to the community through the Green Bay Packers Foundation, supporting charitable causes and youth programs, reinforcing their identity as a community-centric organization[3]. Despite recent competitive challenges, the Packers remain a storied franchise known for innovation, fan engagement, and a business model that blends sports with community ownership and nonprofit management, making them a singular case study in the sports business landscape[2][4].